I would never use the words "strong" or "skilled" to describe my skiing ability so I must admit I had some trepidation about my recent adventure in B.C.'s backcountry.

However, when I woke up at sunrise to a mountain view that belongs on a Christmas card, I could not wait to hit the un-groomed slopes….avalanche tracking device, pontoon skis and all.

My powder skiing experience was organized by the folks at Island Lake Lodge, outside of Fernie. The Lodge is a stunningly located collection of giant log cabin chalets. Named one of the best places in the world to stay by National Geographic Traveler, my favourite spots were the communal eating area, complete with open kitchen, and the rustic bar lit by the glow of the fireplace.

For each group of 12, Island Lake supplies a sno-cat chock full of food and drink, as well as two experienced guides to accompany you.

I had the sno-cat to myself, but thank goodness I still received the benefit of the guides. I consider myself a novice skier, but with Niki's guidance and experience, I managed to get down the bowls and through the trees feeling like an alpine superstar. I loved it. To describe the scenery and thrill of "cutting a line" through the champagne snow that sprays around you as breathtaking is a massive understatement.

Niki told me she wouldn't recommend for people who have never skied before to come here to ski for their first time, but there is always cross-country skiing, the spa and good food to make the 20 minute sno-cat drive up to the Lodge worthwhile.

I suggest that novice skiers get their ski legs first by spending a day on a regular groomed hill before they tackle the backcountry. It makes the experience less intimidating for those of us who only hit the slopes once or twice a winter as is. The powder is beautiful but the un-tamed nature of the slopes can definitely increase the intimidation factor.

It is also worth noting that it is not a cheap undertaking with starting costs for the ski experience alone at $400 per day. That being said, in 2007 a survey of cat and heli-skiing indicated that 98 per cent of first time cat skiers wanted to go again. I can see why.

And if you are going to go, there is no better place than Fernie. It lies in an area of south east BC that gets an average of 12 to 18 metres of snowfall annually.

Check out www.islandlakeresorts.com for information on the Island Lake Lodge.

For information on other accommodations in the Fernie area, check out http://www.ferniecentralreservations.com

Loren Christie appears regularly on Canada AM. If you have a travel question, email us at traveltips@ctv.ca.