Join Taylor Burk on a heli-hiking and via ferrata alpine adventure in British Columbia’s Purcell Mountains.

Dates

August 20-23, 2024

Investment Cost

$4,995 CAD (~$3,750 USD)

Number of guests

Max 10

Accomodation

Based on double occupancy

Depart from either Calgary, Banff or Lake Louise, Alberta

Location

Want more information? Head to CMH’s website here.

4 days of photography mentorship, guidance and challenges to help you improve your skills in a stunning mountain setting.

  • Heli-Assisted Guided Adventure

    Not an expert mountaineer? No problem. These alpine adventures don't require any climbing experience! Capture action shots while out with an experienced guide exploring the Conrad or Mount Nimbus Via Ferratas.

  • Chef-Prepared Meals

    Three meals per day – a chef-prepared breakfast and dinner plus packed lunches, après-hiking snacks and refreshments are included.

  • Remote Backcountry Lodge

    Fly-into the wilderness and find your oasis in the middle of the mountains. The outdoor hot tub, spa with steam room & sauna, games room, bouldering wall and more await your arrival at the Bobbie Burns Lodge.

What will each day look like?

  • Arrival Day

    5:15 am

    Depart via the CMH coach from Calgary, Banff or other pick-up locations and journey along the spectacular Yoho National Park on your way to the helipad.

    9:15 am

    Arrive at helipad for heli-transfer to CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge

    10:30-11:00 am

    Upon arrival, you’ll get acquainted with the lodge

    11:30 am

    Lunch

    1:00 pm

    After a helicopter safety briefing enjoy your first hike exploring the mountains with Taylor, taking photos of the landscapes.

    4:00-5:00 pm

    Return back to the lodge where you can enjoy après-adventure refreshments, a soak in the hot tub or a massage

    7:00 pm

    Enjoy your first CMH gourmet dinner and toast the day's adventures with a hand-crafted cocktail from the bar.

    *Please note: Hiking schedule and lunch times may vary

  • Exploration Day

    7:30 am

    Wake up with a dynamic warm-up class

    8:00 am

    Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to start your day right. Pack your lunch for the day and get ready for your day of adventure through your choice of hiking or via ferrata.

    9:00 am

    First group will fly into the mountains. Capture action shots while out exploring the Conrad or Mount Nimbus Via Ferrata alongside Taylor. Those not interested in the via ferrata are welcome to join the other guests for a hike.

    12:00 pm

    Lunch in the field

    4:00-5:00 pm

    Return to the lodge where you can enjoy aprés-adventure refreshments, a soak in the hot tub or a massage.

    7:00 pm

    Swap stories of your incredible adventures in the mountains as you enjoy family style dinner with your guides and lodge staff. After dinner, Taylor will host an instructional photography session with a more in-depth exploration of photography techniques, reviewing photos from the day, and answering questions.

    *Please note: Hiking schedule and lunch times may vary

  • Exploration Day

    7:30 am

    Wake up with a dynamic warm-up class

    8:00 am

    Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to start your day right. Pack your lunch for the day and get ready for your day of adventure through your choice of hiking or via ferrata.

    9:00 am

    First group will fly into the mountains. Capture action shots while out exploring the Conrad or Mount Nimbus Via Ferrata alongside. Those not interested in the via ferrata are welcome to join the other guests for a hike.

    12:00 pm

    Lunch in the field

    4:00-5:00 pm

    Return to the lodge where you can enjoy aprés-adventure refreshments, a soak in the hot tub or a massage.

    7:00 pm

    Swap stories of your incredible adventures in the mountains as you enjoy family style dinner with your guides and lodge staff. After dinner, Taylor will host an instructional photography session with a more in-depth exploration of photography techniques, reviewing photos from the day, and answering questions.

    *Please note: Hiking schedule and lunch times may vary

  • Departure Day

    8:00 am

    Enjoy a hearty lodge breakfast before departing the lodge with your final heli-transfer

    10:15 am

    Private coach transfer from helipad to Golden, Lake Louise, Banff, Canmore and Calgary International Airport

    1:15 pm

    Estimated arrival time in Banff

    2:45 pm

    Anticipated arrival at Calgary International Airport (YYC). We recommend guests do not book flights until after 5:45pm MT.

    *Please note: Hiking schedule and lunch times may vary

  • Channel your creativity while immersed in the heart of the action. Camera in hand, you'll learn how to implement specialized photography techniques while clipped into a via ferrata at two stunning locations. Following an adventure-packed day in the field, you'll heli back to the lodge to indulge in a gourmet dinner, followed by evening instructional sessions where you'll reflect on the day, edit photos, and dive deeper into the world of post-processing. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or new to the scene, you'll leave feeling inspired, empowered, and craving more.

    Topics that will be covered include:

    Storytelling Through Photography

    Explore how to weave compelling narratives, transforming the unfolding moments into visual stories that captivate your audience.

    Lighting and Composition

    Learn the secrets of how to harness natural light in outdoor settings.

    Editing and Post-Processing

    Gain insights into the post-processing techniques specific to landscape and portrait photography that will elevate your images to a professional level.

    Hands-On Learning

    Get the chance to put your newly acquired knowledge into practice during the guided photo sessions, receiving real-time feedback, critique and guidance.

    & Much More!

    Taylor will be available at all times to help guide you through your camera settings and assist you in capturing your concepts and visions.

  • This workshop is catered to photographers with varying goals, experience levels and aspirations. Whether you find your camera collecting dust, you’re longing for more shooting opportunities, you want to grow your portfolio, or just simply seeking an excuse to get outside and meet new people, we offer the perfect solution.

    Limiting this to 10 people creates a more intimate learning environment, allowing for one-on-one time with each guest.

    No climbing experience is needed but you should be comfortable with exposure and consider yourself to be fit enough to hike for multiple hours with a fairly heavy pack.

  • Accommodations

    A double occupancy room in the hotel-style CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge for the duration of your stay, featuring a full range of onsite amenities (fitness room, climbing wall, hot tub, games room, full service bar, sauna & more).

    Food & Beverage

    Three meals per day – a chef-prepared breakfast and dinner plus packed lunches, après-hiking snacks and non-premium non-alcoholic refreshments.

    Heli-Assisted Guided Adventure

    Professionally accredited guides will accompany you on your adventure, featuring heli flights up and down the mountains plus return flights to your lodge.

    Photography Instruction

    4 days of photography lessons and personal guidance from Taylor Burk. His aim is provide mentorship and support to assist you with your creative visions throughout the workshop. Capture action shots while out exploring the Conrad or Mount Nimbus Via Ferrata, followed by hands-on lessons and group editing sessions back at the lodge.

    Ground Transportation

    Transportation on the CMH coach from the Calgary International Airport (YYC), Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise or Golden to the CMH Bobbie Burns helipad, and return to Golden, Lake Louise, Banff, Canmore or the Calgary International Airport (YYC).

    Equipment

    Use of CMH hiking equipment, including boots, rain jackets, wind pants, day packs and hiking poles. Some of our guests opt to use their own equipment – the choice is yours.

  • GETTING TO THE BOBBIE BURNS

    Coach travel to the CMH Bobbie Burns heli-pad is included in your trip. The coach picks up and drops off at the following locations for your convenience: Calgary, Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise and Golden.
    Your coach ride will be accompanied by a CMH transfer coordinator and food & water will be provided.

    TRAVELLING FROM CALGARY

    The coach departs from the Marriott Calgary Airport Hotel at the Calgary International Airport (YYC) on the first morning of your trip. The coach will make several brief stops to pick up other guests en route to the Bobbie Burns heli-pad.

    TRAVELLING FROM BANFF

    If you are staying in Banff prior to your CMH trip, you can board the coach in Banff. On the first morning of your trip, a short transfer will bring you from your hotel to the Brewster Transportation Centre (100 Gopher Street, Banff), where you will board the CMH coach and travel to the Bobbie Burns heli-pad.

    PARKING IN BANFF

    A National Park Pass is required to park in Banff. Passes can be purchased at the Banff National Park Gates on your way to Banff or in town at the Banff Visitor Info Centre. Please arrange parking with your hotel for the duration of your CMH trip. Parking is at your own risk.

    SELF-DRIVING TO THE HELIPAD?

    You may choose to self-drive to the Bobbie Burns heli-pad instead of riding the coach. If you are self-driving; please arrive by 09:00 MT to ensure a proper introduction to the Bobbie Burns program. If you arrive late, you might miss your flight to the lodge! Parking at the heli-pad is available at your own risk. CMH assumes no liability for vehicles parked at the heli-pad.

Take a virtual tour of the lodge

Surround yourself in old-growth forests and beckoning peaks as you discover how comfortable mountain lodging can be. From your decked-out home base at CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge, you’ll have exclusive access to towering arêtes, dramatic moraines, ice-carved valleys and one-of-a-kind adventures.

Meet Taylor.

Taylor Burk is a renowned photographer and passionate about sharing his wealth of knowledge and expertise with aspiring photographers. With over a decade of dedicated experience, Taylor possesses an extraordinary talent for capturing the intricate beauty of the natural world. His photography and compelling narratives have forged a prominent online presence, establishing him as a distinguished creative force in the world of visual storytelling.

Born and raised in the prairies, Taylor was drawn to British Columbia for its mountainous terrain and coastal landscapes. Today, he calls Vancouver Island home, where he finds inspiration in its rugged beauty. Through his lens, he aims to showcase the beauty of remote landscapes and ignite a deep connection between those who view his work and the natural world.

Notable clients: Backcountry.com, The North Face, Chevrolet, Google Pixel, Samsung Mobile, Olympus Cameras, Best Buy, Destination Canada, Hello BC, Travel Alberta, Destination British Columbia, Destination Ontario, Travel Yukon. Travel Alberta, Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism, Bonjour Quebec, Ottawa Tourism, Atlantic Canada Tourism, Tourism Vancouver Island & many more..

FAQ

  • -Alcoholic beverages

    -Premium non-alcoholic beverages

    -Massages

    -Retail goods available for purchase

    -Airfare to and from your city of origin

    -Photography equipment.

    -Travel insurance

  • A via ferrata is a series of iron rungs and wire cables that are affixed to a mountainside, providing a secure, climbable route through otherwise impassable terrain. You are affixed to the route with a climbing harness. Climbing experience is not required to do a via ferrata, however guests must be relatively comfortable with exposure and heights.

    Learn more about via ferrata advice from a CMH guide here.

  • Situated at 1,360m (4,462 ft), CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge was masterfully remodelled in 2019 and offers the height of wilderness hospitality. Inviting accommodations, lodge amenities and stellar cuisine all come together to create a perfectly luxurious retreat just a short drive from Calgary.

    Featuring an outdoor hot tub, a games room a spa area with steam room, sauna and more, CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge brings mountain bliss into the spotlight. It also boasts the largest wine cellar in the CMH family of lodges. Coupled with a swimming pond and a babbling stream outside your door, CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge has all the ingredients for an unforgettable escape.

    Take a virtual tour here.

    Amenities:

    32 guest rooms

    Outdoor hot tub

    Stunning mountain views

    Ropes course

    Full service bar

    Wine cellar extraordinaire

    Games room

    Music room

    Steam room and dry sauna

    Massage

    Indoor climbing wall

    Fitness room

    Swimming pond

    Chef-prepared meals & snacks

    Pastry chef

    Gear & gift shop

    Wi-Fi

    Complimentary laundry facilities

    Each room includes:

    Hand & body wash

    Bathrobe

    Shampoo / conditioner

    Hair dryer

  • This workshop is open to all levels of photographer, Taylor will cater to beginner through to advanced. And you don’t even need to be a photographer to join - you're more than welcome to come for the experience and enjoy the good company in nature!

  • The via ferrata may not be accessible during heavy rain or other adverse weather. If this should happen, we’ll rely on going hiking or learning editing techniques indoors. As most photographers will tell you, moody weather conditions make for some of the most dramatic and desirable photographs!

    We endeavor to do everything we can to get you out on the via ferrata, but it is not guaranteed. Because it is more technical than a hike, it is entirely weather dependent. The day's conditions will help the guides determine if the via ferrata is available. Your participation in the via ferrata is also at the discretion of your guide. If you're unsure if you would enjoy the experience, chat with your guide about it during your first day out hiking!

  • Expect to hike on your first day of the trip. Days two and three will be spent exploring the via ferratas (or hiking, if you choose to skip the via ferrata). On the hike, you may need to walk up to 1km (sometimes further, depending on group preference) carrying your equipment. Guests taking on the via ferratas must be relatively comfortable with exposure and heights.

  • Recommended Airport: Calgary Intl Airport (YYC)

    Recommended Hotel: Marriott In-Terminal Hotel

  • Most CMH guides have made a lifelong career of their passion. They are dedicated professionals, trained in the European guiding tradition, which emphasizes both respect for the mountains and concern for the well-being of guests. Our guides are fully trained and regularly re-trained in first aid, wilderness rescue, emergency procedures and prevention. Many of our Heli-Hiking guides are fully certified by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) - on average, a 10-year process. The rest are Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) certified, also with rigorous standards. Each one of our guides is an experienced and knowledgeable interpreter of our mountains’ flora, fauna, geology and natural history, ensuring that your Heli-Hiking experience is both safe and enriching.

    CMH is proud to be the largest employer of professionally certified Mountain Guides in the world. You’re in incredible hands.

  • On average, you can expect two or three helicopter trips per day, depending on your preference and weather conditions.
    In addition to your heli trips to and from the lodge.

  • -DSLR or Mirrorless Camera allowing for manual setting adjustments

    -Lenses, ideally a telephoto and wide-angle lens

    -Lightweight Tripod

    -Headlamp

    -Battery charger & spare batteries

    -Memory cards

    -Microfiber cloth

    -Drybag for camera (conditions can be wet on the Conrad Via Ferrata)

    Optional: Laptop for editing, filters (Polarizing Filter, ND Filter, UV Filter), camera manual, portable power bank, peak design camera clip for via ferrata, hard drive.

  • We are accepting and encouraging international bookings.

  • You can choose to maximize your in-person adventure by preparing with Taylor's online landscape photography course. Develop essential skills, nurture your creative vision, and refine your technical proficiency in advance of your visit to CMH Bobbie Burns.

Want more information? Head to CMH’s website here.

Dates

August 20-23, 2024

Investment Cost

$4,995 CAD (~$3,750 USD)

Max 10

Number of guests

Based on double occupancy

Accomodation

Depart from either Calgary, Banff or Lake Louise

Location

Want more information? Head to CMH’s website here.

Reviews from other workshops hosted by Taylor

  • "By the end of the workshop, I could confidently say that I had made a noticeable improvement in my photography skills. Taylor's laid-back demeanour put everyone at ease, but he was also very present and actively coaching during the workshop. His ability to adapt to unexpected changes in weather or wildlife migration made the experience even more special."

    Paul W.

  • "I had always wanted to see this beautiful region, so when Taylor announced that he would be hosting a workshop out there, I jumped at the opportunity. Not only did we get to see tons of wildlife like orcas, grizzlies, sea lions and porpoises, but it was also an amazing opportunity to learn from someone as skilled and knowledgeable in photography as Taylor; always willing to answer questions or help with whatever you need. All and all, this trip was genuinely amazing, the only thing I'll warn you of is this: you won't want to leave. If you love wildlife, want to become a better photographer, or are just looking for a life-changing adventure, then this is the trip for you."

    -Ben G.

  • “The GBR workshop was one of the most inspiring and profound experiences I have had. The beautiful nature that you experience coupled with Taylor's knowledge and welcoming presence makes for an unforgettable trip. I highly recommend this workshop to anyone wanting to see a special part of B.C. and expand on their photography knowledge, you won't regret it!”

    Frankie H.

  • "Taylor and our guides were willing to work on the fly and change the plans to make the best possible experience; you can't force the weather or wildlife encounters, you just have to be prepared for the unexpected. I feel like that's the exact approach that's needed on a trip like this and is what allows for the best possible experience. Taylor, Mike, Andrew and Meesh are there to help you get the best photographs possible and more so, share and create an absolutely unforgettable experience."

    Graeme O.

  • “I had the opportunity to go on a photography workshop with Taylor Burk and the experience blew me away. The Great Bear Rainforest is a unique part of British Columbia that I have always been curious about and travelling with Taylor opened my eyes to so much more. He was a wonderful partner to the photography group and created an environment that was fun, enjoyable and educational. In addition Taylor engaged with local members of the community in putting the trip together, which meant that we were able to experience this unique location in a very mindful, respectful and authentic way - certainly something that made the trip very special for me and the rest of the photographers. I look forward to returning again!”

    -Marg M.

  • "The Great Bear Rainforest workshop was a trip of a lifetime! This was my first time to the area and I was blown away with how much wildlife and amazing locations we were able to see. My favourite part of the workshop was the time spent on the boat learning from Taylor and the guides.  Whether it was a photo or business question or just to swap travel stories, Taylor was always there to chat."

    Colin N.