Updated March 17, 2026 08:14AM
Isaac Kamink, a seasoned figure in the North American backcountry ski scene, has transitioned from a celebrated ski mountaineer and operations manager to an innovative hut operator with the official debut of Hemlock Hut. Located in a remote helicopter-accessed tenure within the Selkirk Mountains near Revelstoke, British Columbia, Hemlock Hut aims to redefine the guided backcountry lodge experience by prioritizing exclusivity and intimacy. This venture, co-owned by Kamink and his partner, former professional skier and photographer Zoya Lynch, is designed to accommodate a maximum of four guests at a time, a stark contrast to the larger, more conventional lodges that have become prevalent in the industry.
The genesis of Hemlock Hut stems from a perceived shift in the economic landscape of backcountry skiing. Lynch notes, "Hut trips have gotten really expensive. Isaac has clients he’s guided for 10 years, who are all doctors, and are like, ‘Yeah, we can’t afford to go anymore.’" This observation highlights a growing barrier to entry for many enthusiasts who previously enjoyed regular access to guided backcountry experiences. The inherent logistical challenges of filling large, 18-person lodges for extended periods, coupled with the increasing costs, have created a market gap that Kamink and Lynch are strategically addressing. Their solution is a focus on smaller groups and shorter trip durations, a model that distinguishes Hemlock Hut from other high-caliber guided operations in Canada.
A Vision Forged in the Selkirks
Kamink’s deep connection to the Selkirk Mountains, a region renowned for its reliable powder and challenging terrain, forms the bedrock of Hemlock Hut’s appeal. His two decades of experience in these mountains, including his tenure as operations manager for Golden Alpine Holidays—a renowned hut system featured in numerous ski films—have equipped him with an intimate understanding of the area’s potential. While Kamink is humble about his familiarity with the specific tenure, his extensive history in the industry suggests a profound appreciation for the nuanced challenges and rewards of this particular corner of British Columbia.
The land itself, a scarcely developed and previously under-advertised ski-touring tenure, was acquired by Kamink and Lynch in 2025 from its original American mountain guide owner, Mike Bromberg. Bromberg had established the initial, albeit basic, hut in 2021. Kamink and Lynch immediately recognized the untapped potential of the approximately 8,000-acre zone, envisioning a comprehensive development that would offer an unparalleled backcountry experience. Their ambitious plans include the addition of a sauna, a feature that underscores their commitment to enhancing guest comfort and the overall experience within the rugged alpine environment.
The Partnership: Expertise and Passion
The partnership between Isaac Kamink and Zoya Lynch brings a unique blend of technical expertise, industry knowledge, and a deep-seated passion for the mountains. Lynch, a former professional skier, is also a highly respected backcountry ski photographer, her work capturing the essence of this challenging sport. Her upbringing, which included part-time residence at Amiskwi Backcountry Lodge in the Canadian Rockies, where her family held shares, provided her with an early immersion into the world of backcountry hospitality.
Kamink’s own mountaineering credentials are well-documented. He is recognized for his participation in the first descent of Rogers Pass’s Comstock Couloir in 2008, an achievement detailed in the book Fifty Classic Ski Descents of North America. This history, while indicative of his adventurous spirit, is now channeled into the meticulous planning and execution of Hemlock Hut’s development and operation. Lynch emphasizes the synergy of their skills, stating, "It is really cool to see the culmination of all of Isaac’s skills coming together in this one project. I feel like he’s the exact right man for the job." Their shared background and long-standing involvement in the ski industry inform their operational philosophy, which prioritizes thoughtful investment and a mindful approach to resource management.
A Phased Development and Evolving Offering
The initial phase of Hemlock Hut’s transformation involved significant infrastructural improvements. The original, basic cabin has been expanded, creating a two-building compound that has quadrupled the initial space. This expansion, completed through a demanding summer of heli-slinging materials into the alpine, now includes a dedicated sauna and shower facilities, alongside enhanced guest accommodations. The original gathering space has also been updated with a wraparound deck, offering guests panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
The development timeline, spanning from the acquisition in 2025 to the official debut in winter 2026, reflects a strategic and deliberate approach. This phased expansion has allowed Kamink and Lynch to refine their vision and address the specific needs of their target clientele. The emphasis remains on an intimate experience, with no sleeping arrangements for strangers and a focus on maximizing guest time and minimizing disruption to their professional and personal lives. The quick heli transfer, often less than five minutes, ensures that guests can begin their skiing adventures on day one, maximizing their time in the backcountry.
The Hemlock Hut Experience: Intimacy and Immersion
Hemlock Hut is situated in a region offering terrain ideally suited for expert skiers. The landscape features moderate pitches, old-growth forests, and steep chutes, with runs ranging from 800 to 2,500 vertical feet. This exclusive access to under-the-radar terrain, combined with the intimate lodge setting, creates a unique appeal. The operational strategy, centered on small groups and shorter trips, facilitates a more deliberate and immersive experience.
While the hut provides essential amenities like cell reception for critical weather and avalanche information, it is designed to maintain a rustic character. This intentional simplicity aligns with the ethos of earning turns, promoting a holistic approach to the backcountry experience. The focus is on home-cooked meals prepared by guides, the vastness of private powder terrain, and the camaraderie of good company. This approach resonates with Kamink and Lynch, who themselves are raising a young child, underscoring their understanding of the value of quality time and focused experiences.
Supporting Data and Industry Context
The backcountry lodge industry in Canada is a significant sector, attracting both domestic and international clientele. Historically, large lodges have dominated, offering economies of scale and catering to larger groups. However, evolving consumer preferences, driven by a desire for more personalized and exclusive experiences, have created an opening for niche operations like Hemlock Hut. The average cost of a week-long guided backcountry trip in British Columbia can range from $3,000 to $6,000 CAD per person, depending on the lodge, duration, and inclusions. Hemlock Hut’s pricing structure, with four-night lodging and three days of skiing starting at $2,280 CAD per person (approximately $1,667 USD at press time), positions it as a premium offering that justifies its exclusivity through the caliber of the terrain, the intimacy of the experience, and the expertise of the guides.
The operational model of small groups is not entirely unprecedented, but Hemlock Hut’s specific combination of helicopter access, intimate capacity, and expert guiding in a relatively undeveloped area sets it apart. The Selkirk Mountains themselves are a prime example of Canada’s vast and relatively untouched backcountry, drawing comparisons to other renowned ski touring destinations like the Monashees and the Coast Mountains. The proximity to Revelstoke Mountain Resort, a resort known for its significant snowfall, further enhances the allure of the area’s backcountry potential.
Future Implications and Broader Impact
The success of Hemlock Hut could signal a broader trend towards more specialized and exclusive backcountry offerings in the Canadian Rockies and beyond. As the cost of large-scale operations continues to rise, and as environmental considerations become increasingly paramount, models that minimize impact and maximize guest satisfaction through curated experiences may gain traction. The emphasis on sustainability, though not explicitly detailed in the initial announcement, is often a core consideration for operators in these remote environments.
The development of this under-utilized tenure also has implications for local economies, potentially creating employment opportunities for guides, support staff, and heli-ski operators. Furthermore, by highlighting the unique characteristics of this specific region, Hemlock Hut contributes to the ongoing narrative of British Columbia as a world-class destination for backcountry skiing. The carefully curated experience, designed for those who value both the challenge of the ascent and the serenity of the descent, aims to create lasting memories and foster a deep appreciation for the wild beauty of the Selkirk Mountains.
If You Go…
Hemlock Hut is situated in a helicopter-accessed tenure within the Selkirk Mountain range, located outside of Revelstoke Mountain Resort. The terrain is specifically tailored for expert skiers, featuring a mix of moderate pitches, mature old-growth forests, and challenging steep chutes. The guiding team is equipped to customize the skiing experience to align with the specific desires and skill levels of their guests.
The hut itself is a compact 225 square feet and is designed to comfortably accommodate four guests, offering two double beds. All-inclusive packages cover meals, expert guiding services, and round-trip helicopter transfers to and from the hut. Group meals are prepared by the experienced guides. Rates for a four-night stay, which includes three full days of skiing, begin at $2,280 CAD. Further information regarding booking and availability can be found at revelstokeguides.com/2026-hemlock-hut.