Mackenzie's Trail

Journey into a remote and seldom travelled part of the Canadian Rockies, following sections of the 420km Alexander Mackenzie Heritage Trail, a historical overland trade route between the Pacific Ocean and Bella Coola in British Columbia, blazed in the late 1700s.

Continue through Fraser Valley and across Chilcotin Plateau keeping watch for Grizzly and Black Bear, then snorkel with spawning salmon in Bella Coola Valley during Walks Worldwide’s new guided, 14-day Wild West Mackenzie Trail, departing London 20th July and 9th August 2008.

With the support of genuine wild west cowboys and their horses, ascend Rainbow Mountain Range for spectacular views over this vast wilderness of alpine meadows, crystal lakes and surrounding rainbow coloured ridgelines.

Overnight in the beautiful Mackenzie Valley, home to Moose, Caribou, Mountain Goat and Wolf, at the traditional camping grounds of old-time trappers and hunters. Here, day hikes allow for exploration of the valley before climbing Mount Mackenzie (2,143 metres). Climb out of the valley via the gentle Tweedsmuir Trail, continuing over a mountain pass, into beautiful alpine meadows and Octopus Lake camp. Follow the Octopus trail through a plateau of lakes and meadows back to the trailhead.

On to Bella Coola Valley, gateway to Great Bear Rainforest, one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet with a high density of both Grizzly and Black Bears. Here, relax on a river drift through temperate rainforest, snorkel in the company of an expert biologist for an interpretative look at the salmon spawning area, observe Bald Eagles circle over head and watch Grizzly Bears gorge on fish. Return to Vancouver for a final night before homeward flights. Alternatively, take an optional extension to Vancouver Island for whale and seal-watching.

The holiday costs from £2,595 p/p including scheduled flights, private transfers, guesthouse and camp accommodation, experienced guide, park fees, packhorse support, most meals, native Indian rock art tour, salmon snorkel and river drift.

For more information, visit Walksworldwide.com.