The Strathcona Circle is made up of six core values: More with Less, Environmental Stewardship, Challenge by Choice, Living on the Edge, Generosity of Spirit, and Happy Warrior. Today, we shine a spotlight on one of our own: a leader who embodies these values in everything he does — Paul Chatterton.

Words by Lynsey Burke

One of the best parts about storytelling is diving deeper into what drives a person — a process that goes far beyond surface-level conversations. For those of us in the Strathcona Lodge community, that person is often Paul Chatterton.

Whether you’re working in outdoor education, exploring experiential learning, or simply passing by in the Lodge kitchen, Paul leads with respect, humility, and an authentic commitment to personal growth and community leadership.

As the Managing Director of Strathcona Park Lodge, Paul brings calm, clarity, and quiet confidence — all essential traits in both adventure tourism and outdoor program management.

What It Means to Choose Challenge

The outdoorsman and sailing enthusiast reminds us not to put pressure on ourselves to be perfect — because failure isn’t a defining moment but rather a way to grow.

Paul reminds us that “challenge by choice” isn’t about recklessness — it’s about intentional risk-taking in a supportive environment. In the world of outdoor adventure education, this concept is fundamental.

“It’s important to not be limited by your inner critic. If you do, you won’t progress.”

This philosophy aligns perfectly with our values at Strathcona Park Lodge & Outdoor Education Centre, where every expedition, rock climbing challenge, or backcountry experience is an invitation to grow.

Outdoor Living and Environmental Stewardship

A lifelong outdoorsman, sailing enthusiast, and devoted father, Paul has managed to nurture a life rich with outdoor exploration and environmental awareness. Growing up in Vancouver, settling in Campbell River, and raising his children near Strathcona Provincial Park, Paul is a living example of sustainable outdoor living.

From mountain biking to cross-country skiing, Paul lives out the Lodge value of Living on the Edge, balancing physical adventure with a deep respect for the natural world — a hallmark of true environmental stewardship.

Leadership in Adventure Tourism and Education

A real adventure involves an element of risk, a philosophy that has helped Paul to push his physical limits, and also one that he and his wife Cheryl have imparted onto their two children.

Paul’s background in guiding and wilderness education shaped his approach to leadership. Whether as a rock climbing specialist or in his current administrative role, he continually supports others in facing their own challenges with courage and confidence.

“You have to let people figure things out in a way that works for them.”

This leadership style — empowering others to find their own path — reflects the very heart of the Challenge by Choice model used in adventure education and youth leadership development.

Resilience, Reflection, and Personal Growth

Paul’s story is filled with moments of pushing past boundaries — from a cracked rib on a slippery technical bike ride, to completing a grueling 120-kilometre gravel race with his son. These experiences aren’t just about physical endurance; they’re about mental clarity, goal setting, and learning when to push and when to pause.

“You get into that flow state and everything else is peripheral.”

In the world of personal development and experiential learning, moments like these are transformational. They help us grow not just as adventurers, but as human beings.

Calculated risk is a large part of one of Paul’s favourite sport, a skill that he continues to hone today

Building Stronger Communities Through Outdoor Education

The Strathcona Lodge family isn’t just made up of coworkers — it’s a community of shared values. Paul and Cheryl have lived the Lodge lifestyle, raising their children in a nurturing environment surrounded by nature, family, and community-based education.

Their son Gavin, a competitive cross-country skier, and daughter Anna, now off at university, grew up immersed in the values of hard work, self-discipline, and adventure-based learning.

Challenge by Choice: A Lasting Legacy

At Strathcona Park Lodge, we teach that real growth comes not from perfection, but from trying, failing, and trying again. Paul sums it up best:

“Just because you didn’t do something that time, it doesn’t mean you’re not capable of it.”

This philosophy is at the core of challenge-based learning and values-driven leadership. Whether you’re leading a canoe trip, starting a new creative project, or riding your bike in the rain, what matters is the willingness to try — and the community that holds you while you do.

The Chatterton family are avid cross country skiiers and are dedicated to the sport.

Final Thoughts: The Strathcona Circle in Action

Paul Chatterton lives the Strathcona Circle every day — modelling the values of generosity, courage, and environmental consciousness. He reminds us that every outdoor challenge is an opportunity to reflect, grow, and lead others with humility.

From mountain peaks to boardroom tables, Paul’s impact resonates through every program, student experience, and shared meal at the Lodge.