FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Below we have listed a lot of the “frequently asked questions” that people tend to have. If these don’t answer your question adequately, feel free to contact us.

Do we need to book ahead, or can we just show up?

Please do not show up without a reservation, or you will be disappointed! Registration is simple and fast, and it guarantees your spot. Even if you register minutes before you come (not recommended), at least you will know if spaces are available.

Why do we need reservations?

Country Christmas is set up so that it never feels busy and so that there are never long lines for the activities. We do this by scheduling only 20-24 people every 15 minutes. Since the activities are in order (linear), generally by the time your group gets to an activity area, the previous group has all or mostly moved on. If there were no reservations, we would either have to turn people away, or there would be huge lines at the most popular times.

What happens if there is snow?

In the case of snow, we will cancel only if the local roads leading to the Ranch are inaccessible. Also, the wagon rides may not be able to run, due to the danger of sliding or jack-knifing. Please check our Facebook page or this website, the morning before you come, to see if we have cancelled the event for the day due to snowy conditions. See refund policy below.

What is the refund policy?

Due to the nature of scheduling time slots in such a short period, no refunds will be given if you are unable to attend for any reason. However, tickets are fully transferable to other people for the same date and time. If you can't come, please "pay it forward" to a friend or someone else who would benefit.
If Timberline cancels (due to inclement weather or flooding of local roads), we will issue full refunds to those who have paid through our system. If it was paid through a third party, the third party will issue the refund (you must contact them). Please give two weeks for payment to be returned to you on your credit card.

Can we transfer to another time or date?

Unfortunately, no. We are unable to administer transfers, due to the huge number of guests and the short time period. As above, you may give your tickets to someone else for the time and date you have booked.

Should we bring strollers?

We ask that you do not bring strollers. Unfortunately, as a genuine horse ranch, Timberline is not very stroller or wheel-chair friendly. There are steps and stairs, and strollers are not permitted on the wagon that takes you to the barn. Distances between activities are very short, so most children that can walk should be fine. We recommend carriers, wraps, and slings for babies.

Is food available for purchase?

Yes! The Timberline Café has a nice selection of hot and cold drinks, desserts, snacks, hot dogs, chili, and so on. The menu is available online. For large groups, we can also provide a special event menu with buffet meals of various sorts (as we serve our many guest groups and camps throughout the year).

What is Timberline Ranch?

Timberline Ranch is a charitable, Christian-based, year-round camp and retreat centre, serving children and families since 1961. It has fully-winterized accommodations for up to 200 people, full dining services, 45+ horses, and a variety of great activities such as trail rides, rock climbing, archery, challenge course, swimming, a 400' zip line, and lots more! During the summer, Timberline runs children’s camps each week, and throughout the year, they also run several weekend camps. It is also available for group rentals, and groups may book up to one year in advance. See the full website for more information: www.timberlineranch.com.

What happens if we are late?

Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your starting time (but drive safely)! We are less than ten minutes from downtown Maple Ridge, straight down 224th Street. You will most likely be turned away if you are late. If spots happen to be available later, we will try to fit you in, but there are no guarantees. This is a very popular event, and if we start you late, it will likely affect those who are on time in the next time-slot.

Can we come early?

Please try not to arrive more than 10-15 minutes early. Although we have a lovely waiting area, your kids will not want to be there too long! Generally, we will not be able to start you earlier than you booked, and we ask people not to wander around until their start time has arrived.

How long should we expect to be there?

The experience will last about one and a half to two hours, depending on how long you want to look around and interact with the displays. Pony Rides will add some extra time, and there may be short lines for them.

Where is Santa Claus?

We’re guessing that he’s still at the North Pole, though rumour has it that he has been seen at local malls. As a “traditional” Christmas event, our emphasis is on simple, country fun, not on Santa, so, to be clear, there is no Santa at this event. We think he’s okay with that.

What is the policy on smoking and alcohol?

Alcohol may not be consumed on the grounds. Smoking is allowed only in the parking lot.

What is the policy on photography?

Please take as many photographs as you like! Our staff members are happy to take photos for you, too, if they are available. Videoing is also entirely acceptable.

What should we wear?

Christmas outfits, if possible! Be festive! Most of the activities are held in the large indoor areas, and the wagon is covered. However, all participants should dress warmly and for the possibility of rain, as there are some small uncovered parts of the tour, such as to and from the parking lot. The barn can be somewhat chilly, as well.

How much is parking?

Parking is free! However, it is limited, so please come in as few vehicles as possible. Parking is conveniently close to the indoor registration area.

Are pets welcome?

Unfortunately, no. Due to the nature of the event, activities, and animals onsite, pets should be kept at home. Guide dogs are fine.

Are you available for corporate events?

Absolutely! We are completely set up year-round for groups of up to 200 to come for meals, conferences, overnight stays, and activities. For this event, groups of 25+ may be interested in including lunch or supper, non-alcoholic beverages, and the entire Country Christmas program. A semi-private eating area can seat 80-100 people.

Oh, no! What happens if I forgot my receipt / ticket?!!!

Don't panic! Please bring your receipt as your ticket, but if you forget, as long as we have your name and the email address with which you registered, we will probably be able to find you in the system and let you in. Now breathe... Relax.