Blachford Lake Lodge
5 Reasons You Need to See the Aurora
Dr. Melanie Windridge is a plasma physicyst, and expert in the Aurora and fusion energy – she even wrote a book about her exploration for the Aurora! She visited us in March 2017 as one of the facilitators for the Cloud Appreciation Society's Northern Lights Holiday at Blachford. In her blog post, she writes about 5 noteworthy reasons that you need to see the Aurora.
Read her blog post here.
Photo credit: Dr. Melanie Windridge
Q: Is there wifi available on site?
A: Surprisingly, yes! While your cell phone won't work (sorry, not sorry!) - we do have wifi that comes in via satellite. Each guest is provided with 250 MB/day of internet free of charge.
Q: Can you prepare vegetarian or special dietary meals?
A: Definitely. Please, advise us of your special needs prior to your arrival.
Q: Do I require insurance to visit?
A: While it is not exactly mandatory, we 100% recommend that all guests have emergency medical insurance while visiting us. Please remember you're travelling into the true wilderness!
Q: What do you have in the way of outdoor activities?
A: Summer activities include fishing, SUP boarding, hiking, canoe/kayaking, swimming, motor boating, interpretive tours, bird watching, plant and animal identification. Winter activities include cross-country skiing (20 km groomed trails), snowshoeing, hiking, snowmobiling, ice fishing, ice skating, fat tire biking, igloo building, kick sledding, quinzhee or igloo building.
Q: What is my baggage allowance?
A: Each guest is allowed one large bag (up to 40 lbs), and one smaller "carry on style" bag (around 8 lbs).
Q: I assume there is a liability waiver to sign, is this correct?
A: Yes. During the booking process, each traveller will be required to complete a waiver and sign off on our Terms & Conditions. This is mandatory for all guests and must be completed prior to arrival in Yellowknife.
Q: Do you provide transportation from Yellowknife Airport to the Air Charter Base?
A: We can arrange transportation for you. We can also arrange for tours and hotel or B & B accommodations in Yellowknife. Air charter flights depart from a float plane base on the shores of Great Slave Lake.
Q: Is alcohol available to purchase at the lodge?
A: Yes. We have a fully stocked bar on site.
Q: What amenities do you have at Blachford?
A: In addition to northern wilderness, clear lake water, miles of trails, cozy accommodations and sumptuous meals, we offer: hot tub, tipi, aurora viewing room, fireplace, full bar service, full washroom facilities with hot showers, toiletries, hairdryers, and daily housekeeping service.
Q: How crowded does Blachford Lake get in the busy season?
A: We are the only lodge on 17 km long Blachford Lake. There is no road access here, so you are unlikely to meet anyone other than your fellow lodge guests during your stay. The peace and quiet will be one of your best memories of your Blachford trip.
Q: What is your fishing policy?
A: We actively encourage a barbless "catch & release" program. However, a few small fish can be kept for a "shore" lunch or be brought back to the lodge for our chef to prepare.
Q: How do we arrange guide service?
A: Guide service is available for all guests. Ask our office staff before you arrive. We do require pre-booking of guides to ensure that your needs are accommodated.
Q: When and from where will my charter flight depart?
A: We will inform you via email approximately 4 weeks prior to your scheduled departure. There are a number of factors that will determine where you depart from, so thank you for your patience!
Q: How big is the aircraft that goes to the lodge?
A: Typically, you will fly on a Twin Otter. At times, you may however, have the opportunity to fly on a Cessna, Beaver, or Caravan. All are considered "bush planes". They are all very safe, and flown by experienced pilots. If you're feeling a bit nervous, feel free to bring your own water bottle or ginger tablets with you.
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