The Rossland mountain range offers many incredible hikes, views and cabins.
But to access it safely, responsibly and get the full enjoyment, a snow host might be the best introduction to this part of the West Kootenay.
With that in mind, the Friends of the Rossland Range Society (FORR) is reminding people that they are offering snow hosts to give guided tours through the area.
The Rossland Range Recreation Site is a free public use area in the high mountains and rolling hills. The parking area is about 19km north of Rossland on Highway 3, or 8km south of the intersection of Highways 3 and 3B.
From there adventurers can explore trails leading to beautiful vistas and several day-use cabins.
Rob Richardson, the FORR snow host program coordinator, said it’s a perfect way to learn about the site’s offerings.
“We have a snow host program done by volunteers. And we take people out for basically an orientation of the rec site either on snowshoe or cross-country skis.
“It’s one-to-three hours. We’ll give you a basic tour of some of the areas and get you familiar with everything.”
There is no charge for the tour but Richardson said if anyone wishes to make a donation to FORR, “We’ll gratefully accept that.”
He has nine snow hosts ready and willing to cross-country ski or snowshoe and offer tours.
“We’re not going to take them in the steep and deep stuff,” said Richardson. “We’re just going to give them a basic orientation so they feel more comfortable going out on their own.”
Tours are available almost anytime. Richardson said some snow hosts are still working and only available on weekends.
“But as much notice as people can give us, helps us line it up.”
Anyone interested in scheduling a tour with a snow host can contact him at 250-362-5881 or rob@rosslandrange.org.
