Sharkfin
Experience a backcountry wilderness photography tour in the heart of the Rockies.
Talus Lodge, East Kootenays - 5 Days - 19th-23rd September 2019
$2600 USD + GST (Canadian Residents)
If you're looking for a location that is new and exciting and offers unparalleled photo opportunities then perhaps this is the trip for you. Not only does "The Talon" tour offer jaw-dropping scenery but we'll also have access to the wonderful amenities offered by the equally impressive Talus Lodge.
A minimum of $1000 is required for a deposit. The full amount or outstanding balance can also be payed below.
Important! Please note, In the event of a cancellation there is no refund. Photography Booking Policy, please read.
Talus Lodge lies in a little-known wilderness area sandwiched in between Kananaskis Provincial Park and Kootenay National Park, just west of Alberta on the continental divide. We named this tour "The Talon" because of the impressive pointy peak that lies at the foot of the lodge. The Talons official name is Sharkfin that shares its name with several other peaks in the area.
Alpine Larch in autumn colour
East Kootenays
The main attraction for this tour is The Talon itself as it rises impressively above pristine lakes and ponds surrounded by alpine larch trees. Each morning and evening we'll have opportunities to capture wonderful reflections of The Talon and its surrounding environment. We've also timed this tour to coincide with the autumn colour of the larch that turns a golden yellow at this time of year. During the day we'll have lots of time to scope out other possible shooting locations, talk photography or if you prefer, just relax in the comfort of the lodge. I'm really excited about this trip and hope you can join me. If you would like to see a short vlog about this beautiful location be sure to check out my YouTube video below.
Talus Lodge
A brief Itinerary
Sept 19th, 2019 - We'll either meet in Canmore and carpool up to the helicopter staging area or meet at the staging area.
Sept 20th - 22nd, 2019 - Each day we'll plan to shoot at sunrise and sunset with options to shoot and/or explore throughout the rest of the day. We'll also have lots of opportunities to talk about photography.
What’s Included:
Helicopter into Talus Lodge
Four night accommodation at lodge
All meals during your stay
Photography instruction by Adam Gibbs
What’s not Included:
Transportation to Canmore
Accommodation before and after the workshop
Medical and travel insurance
More Information….
Where is Talus Lodge?
Talus Lodge is located in the east Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada. The nearest town is Canmore, Alberta. The only way into Talus Lodge is either by helicopter or a long trip up logging roads followed by a steep bushwhack up one of the side mountains that block the path. If you would like to know more about the lodge you can do so here
What is the Accommodation Like?
Shared rooms will be based on either gender or couples that are together. Each room is spacious and comfortable housing two single beds. We will try our best to accommodate specific needs but please keep in mind that options may be limited. The toilets and shower house are all communal. There is power at the lodge but is not suitable for items such as hair dryers.
What is the weather like in September?
The weather in the Canadian Rockies is unpredictable at best. Thunder storms are not uncommon. Rain, snow or hot dry conditions are all possible in the mountains at this time of year, sometimes in the same day!
Is this tour suitable for non-photographers?
Absolutely, Talus Lodge is a marvellous area and there is lots to see and explore for non-photographers. Please be aware though that if you do hang out with us the focus of this trip is photography. Guides will be available and hiking the area is highly recommended.
Should i be concerned about bear encounters?
Short answer is no. Bear and other wildlife do frequent Talus Lodge but tend to stay clear of most human activity. Bear encounters do happen but nine times out of ten the bear will move on. If you are worried about coming nose to nose with a bear your best approach is to travel in a group and make some noise while hiking the trails. We do not recommend bells as they can be annoying to other clients and lessen the chance of viewing ANY wildlife. Bear spray will be available should you choose to carry it. If you do purchase bear spray before the trip make sure that you know how to use it. Also keep in mind that bear spray cannot be transported on a plane.
How hard will the hiking be?
There are lots of great photo opportunities for all fitness levels and many great shooting locations are not far from the lodge. Typically the distances will be under 7 km for each day. We will evaluate the groups energy level when we all meet. Ideally some level of fitness would be a great asset.
What camera gear should I bring?
The following are some recommendations. Generally we will be focusing primarily on landscape photography but may encounter some wildlife shooting opportunities. Since we will be hiking throughout the day and carrying our own gear, equipment should be kept to a minimum. Here is a list of what we typically carry in the field. A more detailed "what to bring" list will be sent to you prior to the tour. If you do shoot wildlife and own or use a very large lens you are welcome to bring it. Keep in mind though that the maximum recommended pack weight for the helicopter is 25lb. Overweight items may require an extra fee, best inquire before you bring the 600mm.
Camera Equipment:
Lightweight tripod w/ballhead
Camera backpack
DSLR camera body
14-24mm lens
24-120mm lens
70-200mm lens
Various ND filters/polarizers/holders for all lenses
2 extra batteries
Lens pen/lens cloth
lens shade
Other items that should make your day more comfortable in the mountains. Either worn or put in your pack for the day.
Good hiking boots or shoes
Long pants
Brimmed hat
Gloves
Warm jacket
Rain jacket
Snack bars/lunch/something to drink
Headlamp/flashlight
Toilet paper
Sunglasses
Optional items:
Extra camera body
Smartwool/long underwear
Extra socks
Hiking poles
Rain pants
Sun screen
Wooley hat
Instep crampons