Skylark Cabin

Good snow, good times

Ashman Ridge is a long way to go for a day of skiing. For those that make the journey, you are typically rewarded with good snow, and terrain almost everyone can enjoy. While we have been lucky to have a humble shelter like the Skylark trailer to stay warm, we are taking the steps to build a long-awaited fully fledged cabin! 

Support the Skylark 2.0 Project

We’ve been scrimping and saving, and are appreciative of every donation you may be able to assist with. Donations will supplement transportation of materials to site, and help us to outfit the cabin with some modern amenities.

Skylark 2.0 Project Timeline

Here is the lowdown on the Skylark 2.0 project from inception to completion. It’s been a journey, of which we are happy to be nearing the end. 

2004
2004

Skylark: Steep In History

The original home of the Skylark trailer that now sits at the Ashman Ridge Ski Area was the driveway of Ken Purvis’s home in Kamloops in 2000. At that point the trailer was already 25 years old and being lived in by Ken’s brother Leigh Purvis. In 2004 it was hauled to Smithers and was skidded to its current mountain top location via an old logging road. Leigh lived in the trailer for two years while building the red roof house you can see on Google earth.


The Skylark Chalet at Ashman Ridge provides rustic overnight accommodations for four people with front door access to great snow and terrain including natural glades. To get there requires a combination of driving and snowmobiling or a long skin in.

2016-ish
2016-ish

Project Inception

We realized that a cabin would make the trip a whole lot more rewarding. Previous boards gather info, and conducted siting studies to find good spots.

2022
2022

Site Selection

After much wandering and recconaisance, we selected the a suitable spot which balances accessibility, terrain and pristine wilderness.

2022
2022

Design Phase

Drawing some inspiration from other beloved spots like Anderson Cabin, we put together some drawings. 

2024
2024

Site is cleared

Permissions in place, a group of volunteers head into the site and begin clearing trees making way for the cabin.

2025
2025

Skylark Cabin is built!

Our log shell is on order, and we hope to construct the floor next June. The cabin is happening, but not without lots more help!

Help the Skylark 2.0 Project

Become a part of our community-driven initiative to build the Skylark backcountry ski cabin. Your support can make a significant impact. Volunteer, donate, or spreading the word. Its a lot of work to make something special, and building it is just part of the fun. Let us know if you would like to pitch in! 

About the Bulkley Backcountry Ski Society

The Bulkley Backcountry Ski Society (BBSS) is a dedicated group of backcountry skiers and snowboarders committed to promoting and preserving the love for backcountry skiing in the Bulkley Valley. Our mission is to ensure safe, educational, and accessible backcountry experiences for enthusiasts of all skill levels. We organize events, maintain trails, and advocate for the interests of backcountry users. By fostering a supportive environment, we aim to enhance the quality of backcountry skiing through infrastructure development, education, and responsible enjoyment of the outdoors.