Peaks & Valleys

Navigating the path as a man.

Miles. With Meaning.

Welcome to Peaks & Valleys—
a five-day men’s retreat set deep in British Columbia’s Purcell Mountains, where rugged trails and raw reflection go hand in hand. We’ll journey through wild alpine passes, past glacial lakes, ancient forests, and high ridgelines that test both body and mind. Here, the pace slows. The noise fades. And what’s left is space—space to challenge yourself, reconnect with your purpose, and rise to the terrain within.
This is where wilderness shapes wisdom—and the trail becomes your teacher.

Anthony, AUS

"Experience Hypnotherapy" Session

I am literally a new person. Well same huge heart but with more confidence and self love. I have even stopped taking antidepressants. I honestly can't describe the difference I have both physically and mentally

Meet the Guides

Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist

Registered Yoga Teacher

Retreat Planner & Facilitator

Men's Group Host 

Michael was born and raised in Ontario, and now lives amongst the energy of ancient trees and the majestic beauty of the mountains in Revelstoke, British Columbia with his wife Nastaja and their dog Taiga.

In 2011, he and Nastaja embarked on a year long road trip to and through Central America. On this journey, Michael connected with his spiritual self and his artistic abilities. Since then, they have travelled to many parts of the world. They worked many interesting seasonal contracts, trained to become Yoga teachers, and lived & worked at various retreat centres where they studied the metaphysical and meditation.

In 2020 Michael became a certified Clinical Hypnotherapist! He has learned a lot along the way and feels called, and honoured to share.

Michael Ferreira, CHt Dancing Wind Wellness

Chris Skinner
Playwest

Chris moved to the Canadian Rockies in the mid-90s, drawn by a hunger for fresh snow and deeper adventure. Over the past two decades, Chris has immersed himself in the rhythms of the land, exploring the Canadian Rockies and Columbia Mountains through hiking, backpacking, and backcountry skiing.

As a certified member of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) and the Interpretive Guides Association, Chris brings not only skill but presence to every journey. He has led multi-day expeditions on iconic routes like the West Coast Trail, and countless day hikes in the Columbia Valley.

But guiding, for Chris, is about far more than just the trail. With a grounded and intentional approach, he believes in the power of the mountains to create space—for reflection, reconnection, and growth. Whether you're stepping into your first backcountry experience or seeking clarity in the wild, Chris leads with authenticity, curiosity, and an open heart. His passion is simple: to help others find meaning in the mountains.

Why Book with Playwest

  • West Coast Trail Guides

    OUR GUIDES

    All of our guides are certified to the highest level by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides. Our experienced guides will provide a safe and memorable experience!

  • THE FOOD

    We include all on trail meals. All the prep and planning is done for you, we can accommodate most dietary requests and the guides do all the cooking!

  • Tent on the West Coast Trail

    WE HAVE THE GEAR

    Don’t have a tent or a sleeping bag? Playwest has you covered! We have a complete rental fleet. From 1 piece to a full package. We got you!

Get in touch.

Have a question about Peaks & Valleys? We’re here to help. Whether you're feeling called to the mountains or just exploring the idea, reach out—we’d be happy to connect and share more about the experience.