Iceline Trail Yoho

Remains of Glacier under Michael Peak

July 17th Wednesday.

This hike is one of the best for views in the area. It is easy to count ten glaciers and Takakkaw Falls is always in site.Very impressed.

The Iceline trail starts at Whiskey Jack Hostel, but you now have to park at Takakkaw Falls.There is a trail from there to the Hostel.

Trail from parking lot to hostel

From the hostel follow the signs up to the Iceline Trail. There are many other trail but all well signed.The trail snakes it’s way up the mountain through the trees. Eventually you break out onto a flat smooth rock area where the glacier has done it’s work.

The open expanse of the lost glacier

Lots of more climbing as you work your way over the lateral moraine.

Trail over the moraine

Nice steps built into the trail

View of  Takakkaw Falls and the Daly Glacier which feeds the flow.

Takakkaw falls

At about 8.5 km the trail reaches a couple of small tarns and a sign to Celeste Lake.

Tarns just before the turn off

Before heading down to Celeste Lake carry on for a 0.7 km to the summit of the hike.

Celeste Lake

The terrain changes from the stark glacial rock to the soft green of alpine meadows and then into the trees.

Meadows above Celeste Lake

After about 4.5 km the trail joins the Little Valley Yoho Trail.Next up is Laughing Falls.

Laughing Falls

Little Yoho River is crossed

Little Yoho River

At the Laughing Falls Camp Site it is 4.5 km  back to the parking lot.The route follows the Yoho River and it is about this time your legs wish you were already at the car.

One of the best hikes of the season so far.

Total Km 18.5 km Elevation Gain 845 m Time 6.5 hrs

https://willski.ca/trailheads/Iceline.gpx

https://willski.ca/kml/Iceline.kml