Guest Information
Prepare for Your Wilderness Adventure
Your journey to Walcott Lodge is part of the experience. This page contains essential information to help you prepare for your off-grid mountain retreat. Please read carefully and don’t hesitate to contact us with questions.
Getting Here
Summer Access (June - September)
Hike-In Only: 11km trail from parking area
- Duration: 3-4 hours one way
- Elevation Gain: 400 meters
- Difficulty: Moderate (good fitness required)
- Trail Conditions: Well-marked, some rocky sections
Trailhead Location:
Baker Lake Trailhead, 15km from Lake Louise Village
GPS: 51.4167° N, 116.2333° W (example coordinates)
Parking is limited. Arrive early or arrange shuttle service.
Winter Access (December - March)
Ski/Snowshoe In: 11km winter trail
- Duration: 3-5 hours depending on conditions
- Skill Level: Intermediate skiing ability required
- Trail Breaking: May be required after fresh snow
- Avalanche Terrain: Yes - training recommended
Winter Parking:
Designated winter parking area with overnight options
Vehicle plug-ins available (reserve in advance)
Check avalanche conditions at Avalanche.ca before departure
What to Expect: The Off-Grid Experience
Walcott Lodge offers authentic wilderness living. Here's what "off-grid" means for your stay:
⚡ No Electricity
- Lantern and candle lighting throughout
- No outlets for charging devices
- Solar power for emergency communications only
- Bring power banks if needed for cameras
💧 Water System
- No running water in rooms
- Shared washhouse with basin washing
- Heated water available at set times
- Drinking water from natural spring
🚽 Facilities
- Composting toilet outhouse
- Clean, well-maintained, heated in winter
- Located 20 meters from main lodge
- Chamber pots available for nighttime
🔥 Heating
- Wood stove heating throughout
- Staff maintain fires overnight
- Extra blankets always available
- Rooms stay cozy even at -30°C
📡 Communications
- NO cell phone service
- NO internet access
- Satellite phone for emergencies only
- True digital disconnect
🏥 Medical
- Basic first aid available
- Staff trained in wilderness first aid
- Helicopter evacuation possible
- Bring personal medications
Comfort in Simplicity
While rustic, the lodge is surprisingly comfortable. Previous guests often tell us that after the first day, they don't miss modern conveniences at all. The rhythm of lantern lighting, wood stove warmth, and disconnection from devices becomes part of the magic.
Essential Documents
View online or print/save as PDF
❄️ Winter Packing List
Essential equipment for December through March visits, including avalanche safety gear
View Winter List📖 Welcome Guide
Lodge etiquette, daily schedule, facilities, and everything you need to know for your stay
View Welcome Guide📝 Waiver of Liability
Required waiver - please review before arrival and bring signed copy
View Waiver💡 Tip: Each document page has a "Print / Save as PDF" button. Use your browser's print function and select "Save as PDF" to download a copy.
Important Policies
Cancellation Policy
- 60+ days before arrival: Full refund minus $100 admin fee
- 30-59 days: 50% refund
- 14-29 days: 25% refund
- Less than 14 days: No refund
- Trip insurance strongly recommended
Age Requirements
- Minimum age: 10 years old
- Under 18 must be with guardian
- All guests must be physically capable of hike/ski access
- No exceptions for helicopter access
Group Bookings
- Maximum lodge capacity: 16 guests
- Full lodge buyouts available
- Group rates for 8+ people
- Corporate retreats welcome
Environmental Policy
- Leave No Trace principles required
- Pack out all personal waste
- Biodegradable soaps only
- No drones permitted
Safety Resources
Stay informed with these official resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, no pets are allowed due to wildlife concerns and Parks Canada regulations.
Is the lodge wheelchair accessible?
Due to the remote location and hike-in access, the lodge is not wheelchair accessible. All guests must be able to hike or ski the 11km access trail.
What if I have a medical emergency?
We have satellite communication for emergencies and can arrange helicopter evacuation if needed. Staff are trained in wilderness first aid. Evacuation costs are the guest's responsibility.
Can I leave valuables at the lodge while hiking?
Yes, each room has a lockable storage box. The lodge also has a safe for passports and important documents.
Do you provide hiking or skiing equipment?
We have limited snowshoes for rent. All other equipment (hiking boots, ski gear, poles, etc.) must be brought by guests. Equipment lists are in our packing guides.
What about drinking water?
The lodge has excellent spring water that is tested regularly. You can refill water bottles at any time. We recommend bringing a good water bottle or hydration system.
Questions?
Our team is happy to help you prepare for your wilderness adventure.
Contact UsOr call during business hours: +1 (403) 555-0100