Whitecap Alpine

Whitecap Alpine

  Back in 1972 a group of enthusiasts erected a log cabin in the McGillvary pass.  For the past 20 years the Andrews family refer to it as their “Winter home”.  I was lucky enough to be guided by Lars Andrews in the mountains that he grew up in and has skied most lines you can imagine in the area.  The operation run out of this lodge is called Whitecap Alpine.

  The start of the trip was incredibly scenic starting with a heli ride to the lodge which obviously provides an ample view of the terrain.  We then went through transceiver training and an explanation of the plan for the day.  Immediately following that we quickly trekked out into the mountains.  Bruno Long and I were at Whitecap to capture some photos in order to share the moments spent in the mountains.

  We toured and skied alongside an incredible crew of mountain enthusiasts.  The light and the snow remained excellent for the entire duration of our stay.  We covered a lot of vertical… it is my belief that Lars himself could have probably doubled that vertical had he been by himself and not needed to wait for anyone.  So when you head here don’t concern yourself with any thoughts of touring too slow…. I on the other hand am not sure how much more I could have handled.  It is safe to say I had my fill, the rest of the guests shared my appreciation for the abundance and quality of snow we put tracks in.

  Life around the lodge is truly exceptional, out in the wilderness but completely catered to.  After your day in the mountains you come back to cold beer, good music and delicious snacks, the perfect apres environment.  If you need to really knock it out of the park you can also hit the sauna which is ready to go everyday after your done in the alpine.  They also have some local wildlife quite familiar with the lodge.  Namely a pine martin known as Douglas Phillip McGillvary or “@bbq_Doug” who frequents the BBQ area.  The main lodge is where everyone gathers, drinks and eats.  Creating an amazing team environment, although if you need alone time you can head to yurtlandia or the other sleeping quarters.  

  As you can tell if you read this far I really, thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Whitecap Alpine.  A magical place that will no doubt leave you with an unforgettable experience.

@eye_b_long and @whitecap