Skimming across the summit of the Columbia Icefields, we begin a lazy descent that brings us to a quiet splashdown on the undisturbed waters of our remote hideaway. We taxi up to the only sign of habitation on the lake, and there we find the quaint and cozy accommodations of Fortress Lake Wilderness Retreat, nestled along the sandy shoreline.

As we open the aircraft door, the smell of home baked bread and wood smoke deliciously tease our nostrils. Several well-marked hiking trails are seen to depart the camp, as we walk from the dock past a row of fishing skiffs, canoes, and sea kayaks, to be shown to one of six private cabins. As our thoughts crystallize, it strikes us that this is paradise found, and everything a wilderness adventure should be.

A SPECIAL NOTE TO THE ANGLER IN YOUR FAMILY - Fortress Lake is teeming with wild stocks of trophy sized Eastern Brook Trout. It is the best such fishery in western North America. Most fish range from 2 - 7 lbs with the average weighing about 2.5 lbs and being 18 inches long. This outstanding fishing is not an accident; it has been the result of careful conservation.

We accommodate just 12 guests, in six very quaint and comfortable private cabins, far from the maddening crowds of our more popular mountain Parks. Each of our guest units consist of a very cozy wood heated 14 X 16 foot framed cabin, nicely paneled in tongue and groove pine. Canvas is then stretched over the frame giving the cabin an appropriately rustic backcountry appearance. Up to four individuals share a cabin, or private single and double occupancy is available for a small surcharge. Beds are either single or double, and your bedding and linen is supplied, as are your towels, soap and shampoo.

Our kitchen and dining room is housed in a separate building, and our washhouse comes complete with traditional cast iron tub, shower, and sink. The outhouses are equipped with flush toilets, and we supply porta-potties for your overnight use.
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This is a private backcountry lodge not far from Banff National Park. Situated in a stunning and secluded location in the high alpine (about 7500 feet), one of the best in the Canadian Rockies. This cabin can sleep up to 12 people , but it is best with a couple , a family or small group. If you desire a private getaway, this is it, almost all the other lodges have numerous guests at any given time, but here you can be totally alone or alone with our cook and guide.

We will not book anyone else into the lodge except members of your own party to insure a private experience. All food and drink is included. A guide and chef are provided to look after all your needs. This is truly a luxurious way to enjoy the Canadian Rockies without the crowds.Access to the cabin by a awesome 1/2 hour helicopter ride through the heart of the Canadian Rockies and it's front ranges, this flight is worth the trip alone. Unforgettable. Access by helicopter skiing or hiking . Complete cooking facilities, hot showers, toilets and other luxuries. Open all year. Radio on site for safety.

Rates : inquire , all inclusive package only.

Escape to a place with no roads, no publicized hiking trails, no cars, no crowds, no noise, no pollution. Yet, despite its remoteness, Purcell Lodge offers modern accommodation and facilities that belie its isolation. Here, you will discover private bedrooms with hand-crafted furniture, wild-flower comforters and balconies on which you can revel in your magnificent surroundings.

Wilderness Hiking Lodge of the Year - 1995 Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report

Absolutely unbelievable !

access by helicopter only.

Rates : inquire , all inclusive package only.