Our People

At Nipika you’ll meet an eclectic group of energetic people who ‘walk-the-walk’ of Nipika philosophy.

Lyle Wilson

As founder of Nipika, Lyle can be seen around the resort most days- whether out on the trails, waxing skis in the day lodge, or telling stories to guests. Lyle brings a lifetime of experience in sport and outdoor recreation leadership: two time Olympic Games coach with the Canadian Cross Country Ski Team; founder of “Fresh Air Experience” outdoor stores; and a national level competitor in canoeing, kayaking, and cross-country skiing. Lyle is an avid Nordic skier, mountain biker, proficient mountaineer, and keen naturalist.

Steven Wilson

Steve is the General Manager of the resort and began working here when he was a little boy. While Steve wears many hats, his favourite is builder. It’s his energy, keen eye, and attention to detail that have made Nipika’s facilities so memorable. All the wood beds, tables, and furnishings- and some cabins- are a tribute to Steve. He is also an accomplished groomer for both the cross-country ski and fat bike trails. Not sure where to hike, bike, run, or ski? Ask Steve! You may just see him biking the trails with his wife Lainey, kids Theo and Rooney, or dogs Titan and Sadie.

Dianne Wilson

(Lyle’s better half) represents the quiet backbone of the Wilson family and Nipika. She is an enthusiastic horsewoman, loves to cross-country ski, and is thrilled to spend time with her four grandchildren. Dianne is a retired teacher who can be found volunteering for the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society at the Invermere Thrift Store when she’s not helping out around Nipika.

Bev Dearin

Bev is Nipika’s office manager and the voice on the phone answering all questions about Nipika. She has a long career in tourism and never misses a detail to ensure your vacation is a memorable one. Bev is also the longest non-Wilson employee of Nipika! You most likely won’t meet her, as she works solely off-site.

Jane Shopland

Jane is Nipika’s housekeeping expert! She keeps the cabins sparkling and always with a smile. Over the 10+ years Jane has been at Nipika she has shared her passion for the mountain wilderness with many Nipika guests. Jane is an avid fisherwoman and enjoys kayaking whenever she gets the chance. She lives off-grid and immerses herself in everything nature has to offer.

Nicole Arychuk

Nicole is a jane of all trades! She gives mountain bike lessons, helps keep the cabins clean for guests, chops firewood, assists with trail maintenance, and grooms winter trails among many other tasks. Nicole is an energetic outdoorswoman who loves to mountain bike and trail run. She explores the Nipika and Radium trails on her days off with her husband and dog.

Abby Kokolski

Abby helps out with Nipika’s marketing and online presence. Have a great photo from your holiday here? Send it to her: marketing[@]nipika.com! She loves trail running, hiking, and spending time outside with her family (bonus if it’s cross-country skiing at Nipika!)

Seasonal staff

Each winter and summer, a few awesome people help us out with a variety of work: in the barn, on the river, giving ski lessons, cleaning cabins, living onsite, and the list goes on! Without these people, Nipika would not run nearly as smoothly.

Our Dogs

To anybody who has visited Nipika, our dogs need no introduction. They are our guides, babysitters, companions, and playmates. (You’ll mostly encounter trail guide Sadie, sweet Morley, pup Sarge, and playful Wrigley!)

Board Members

These seven volunteers are dedicated to ensure the vision of Nipika is maintained. The Board brings a vast resource of creativity, business experience, and philosophical guidance to Nipika.