Trail from old road into the forest
Saturday August 9th 2014
This trip to Sunwapta Peak was lead by Mary Ann of the ACC Rocky Mountain Section Canmore. The day before, was our original date but with snow and rain forecast, it was switched to the Saturday which turned out to be a great choice. An early start at the trailhead made it necessary to stay at the Beauty Creek Hostel overnight.The trail starts at the Stanley Falls pull off on Hwy 93. 2km south of Beauty Creek Hostel and 15.6 km from the Columbia Icefield Center. Hike up to the old hwy road and turn left. Right takes you to the Falls. The picture above shows the right turn into the treed forest. Cairns and tape mark the spot. Do not think this is an easy scramble since the elevation gain is considerable at over 1750 m. Even after tree line it is another 1000 m.
Route up through the trees
Route follows the Creek. Sunwapta Peak behind
The tree line is in view and only another 1000m to go after that. The route is to the right of the small snow patch. Head high enough and right to reach the ridge but at the same time missing the watercourse on the right.
Scree trail after tree line
Along the ridge is a small cliff band that is in the view above – this is where the Stick waypoint is.
Slogging up the rubble with Tangle,foreground Kitchener & Snow Dome
Summit in sight along the ridge
Mary Ann on the ridge pinnacle before summit
Group shot on summit
Distance return 12.0 km Time return 11 hrs ( inc 1hr 30 lunch ) Elevation Accumulated gain 1850 m Elevation to Summit 1830m Summit height 3320 m
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Hi Bill! I plan on bringing a friend to the Beauty Creek Hostel, is the hostel close to the highway? I’m trying to limit the on-foot approach as much as possible. Than
Yes the parking for the Hostel is right beside the road. It is a short walk down to the Hostel.