Ride Granite Slabs with Flow State Guiding

The Sunshine Coast is home to some of BC’s best outdoor recreation opportunities. You can paddle to your heart’s content, tackle a wide range of hikes, and ride an array of epic mountain biking trails. And now there’s a new mountain biking experience in the backcountry of Powell River & qathet, if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary.

Adventurous riders can book an all-inclusive trip with Flow State Guiding that includes travel by helicopter to a base camp in the mountains. The 3 to 5 day trips allow for plenty of time to bike and enjoy some of the world’s longest granite rock slabs, all while taking in the awe-inspiring views. Read on to learn more about these bucket list-worthy trips.

How did this venture come to fruition?

Ian Middleton is the driving force behind Flow State Guiding. His passion for mountain biking and bringing awareness to BC’s backcountry led him to work towards securing a tenure to start doing guided tours in Powell River & qathet.

“I love to share wild places the way others have shared them with me. My new company, Flow State Guiding, is about reconnecting people with the power of these sacred spaces and marrying years of experience moving in the mountains while climbing and the freedom of movement enjoyed on two wheels,” says Ian. "This venture has been 7 years in the making, and is most akin to heli-supported ski touring lodges seen across the Pacific Northwest.”
 

How do the trips work?

Trips are available during a short window from late July through to the end of September, when the snow has melted, and the terrain is perfect for mountain biking.

These all-inclusive trips range from 3 to 5 days in length and cover helicopter transportation from Powell River, Sechelt, Squamish, or Campbell River, along with meals and overnight accommodations at Flow State’s base camp. Everything you pack must fit into your day pack on the final descent day. This is the great outdoors; hairdryers, body washes, shampoos, conditioners, and group gear like shock pumps and lubricants can all be left behind. Participants are provided with a list of equipment and clothing needed for the trip. The full lists can be found on the booking page for each trip.

Trip prices start at $3,700 per person, and pricing depends on your departure location. You'll also need to demonstrate your biking skills to participate in the trip, either by submitting a video or by booking time with one of their mountain bike partners to secure a qualification to ride with Flow State.

What can guests expect at base camp?

Everything is set up in advance of your arrival. Base camp is framed by granite peaks and sits at 6,000 feet. A nearby glacial lake (tarn) offers opportunities for a refreshing swim.

Premium, windowed tents offer space for up to six guests each, and feature beds, bedside tables, cupboards, lighting, and power. The tents are also equipped with stoves to offer warmth and light in the evenings. A modular sauna at the edge of the glacial lake is also available for use and is perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.

Flow State’s chef prepares meals with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that cater to the group’s dietary needs. Evening cocktails and some great conversations while taking in the starry skies are the perfect way to cap off a day of mountain biking.
 

What’s the riding like?

With approximately 2,000 metres of vertical relief and over 2,000 acres of granite terrain, there’s a lot to explore. After checking your gear and getting your riding kit sorted, the 3-Day Slab Adventure Tour sees participants test their cardio at altitude with a stunning ascent to the summit ridge of Vintage Peak (1900+ metres) with spectacular views of the Coast Mountain Range. The ridge leads way to a couple of choices to descend, including a 5km traverse southbound with views of Powell Lake and the Georgia Strait and a descent down the ridgeline with a final traverse and ascent around the lower tarn back to base camp. You can find full descriptions for each of Flow State's tours by clicking here.

You can also take a sneak peek by clicking to watch the video below.

What are the impacts on the environment?

Flow State Guiding is committed to raising awareness about BC’s backcountry and the potential of these areas. The company has embraced the opportunity for a shift from resource extraction—which has previously been the norm—to adventure tourism.

The company prioritizes hiring locals and sourcing local food and items whenever possible, to support the community and reduce their carbon footprint. Their base camp features modular structures that can be completely dismantled in the off-season, which helps to minimize the environmental impact. They strictly adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace to mitigate any impacts on the terrain, ensuring that the pristine wilderness remains undisturbed for future generations.

It's understood that transportation is a significant factor in the company's sustainability efforts, however, Flow State Guiding is addressing this challenge with efficient heli drops, while looking at more long-term solutions with its current partners/providers.
 

How can I book a trip?

You’ll need to fill out an application form here.

These bucket list trips are designed for seasoned riders seeking an adrenaline-pumping challenge. Flow State Guiding is dedicated to ensuring every participant is prepared to handle the thrilling adventure ahead.