One Family's Commitment to Responsible Travel: Taking the Haida Gwaii Pledge
For travellers of all ages, the Haida Gwaii Pledge helps build a more personal connection with the unique culture and environment of Haida Gwaii.
Revelstoke is a town full of adrenaline junkies who like to have fun and go fast. When Revelstoke Mountain Resort announced they were building The Pipe Mountain Coaster – a ride that would twist and turn for 1.4 kilometres (0.87 miles) down a 279 metre (915 foot) vertical drop at up to 42 km/h (26 mph) – the local talk around town was buzzing. So when it opened, I went. Twice, in fact. And it was undeniably fun. Now it’s your turn. Like a good local, I’ve put together a list of insider tips to help you make the most of your ride. So before you go, read on.
1. Forget Waiting in Line
Sitting in the start gate on a sunny morning in Revelstoke.
No matter what time of the day you choose to ride, there’s no need to stand around in line. Grab a numbered ticket and keep your eye on the loading numbers broadcast on screens around the resort and live on the website. When your number is up, jump on the Revelation Gondola and head up (or down) the mountain and towards the Revelation Lodge for your gravity appointment. This gives you more time to wander the village, go for a hike, try the Aerial Park, or relax on a patio.
2. Pack a Bag
Ready to ride.
Don’t head up that mountain before you have your snacks, water, sunscreen, camera, hat, bug spray, and an extra layer in case it gets chilly. Just imagine you’re going for a short hike. You’re able to wear your purse or backpack on the coaster, as long as it’s not enormous, so there’s no need to go unprepared. Just remember, you cannot use handheld devices on the ride itself. If you want to shoot photos or videos of your ride, a GoPro (or similar small device) strapped to your body is recommended.
3. Check the Forecast
Cruising down the mountain on The Pipe Mountain Coaster. Photo: Ian Houghton.
The mountain coaster does not run in the rain, so if the forecast is calling for showers, beware and plan accordingly to avoid disappointment. Check out the website for a live status of the open and closures. If the resort is coming off a string of bad weather, you can expect a slew of adrenaline junkies eager to catch a ride before leaving town.
4. Set Your Own Pace
Riding down at my own speed.
The crew at the top will do their best to make sure your ride goes smoothly, but ultimately, you’re in control. The coaster operates using a manual brake, which means you can cruise at your own pace the whole way down. If you intend to fly, let the operators know. That way they won’t send you down behind someone who is braking at every turn. If you are a little timid, own it. Let them know and they will be sure to leave lots of room between you and the person behind you. Honest communication will let you maximize your enjoyment of the ride.
Riding through the forest. Photo: Ian Houghton.
Bonus Tip
Riding a roller coaster down a mountain in British Columbia deserves a beer at the bottom. Rockford, at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, has an undisputed reputation for being the best patio in town. They will gladly serve you a cold, local brew in celebration of your ride.
Victory beers on the Rockford patio at Revelstoke Mountain Resort.
What You Need to Know
- Check here for hours and cost.
Still Not Convinced? Watch This.