Avalanche Skills Level 1 (AST 1)

Weather

Kootenay weather can vary drastically. In winter you expect temperatures to be from -15C to –5C in the day while in spring daily temperatures could rise well above zero. Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind, precipitation can change within the day.

Location

This course is based in Nelson BC. Field days will occur in the Selkirks Mtns, the local backcountry near Nelson. Details will be given to participants before course start. For a list of possible venues click Nelson Classics. Feel free to contact us for more information.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG/IFMGA guide service
AST 1 class notes
Avaluator™ Trip Planner
Backcountry Avalanche Awareness by Bruce Jamieson
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
optional & very useful! Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain field book (available through SMG)
Transportation or lift fee if applicable
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Which should you use? If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine Touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier or Snowboarder should you bring Telemark or Split Board gear. All types of gear can be rented in Nelson prior to your day trip. There are three types of backcountry systems you can use:

Alpine Touring skis are essentially downhill skis with a special touring binding which allows the heel to lift whilst going uphill or across the flats and then ‘locks down’ to become a regular downhill safety binding. We recommend this system to anyone with a background of downhill skiing who is not already an advanced telemark skier.

Telemark skis. These should only be used for this program if you are at least an advanced-intermediate telemark skier with some backcountry experience. This system is more difficult and less forgiving than the others.

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Courses / Avalanche Training /

Avalanche Skills Level 2 (AST 2)

Boost your avalanche awareness skills, knowing more increases safety and leads to serious fun...

Are you looking for the highest recreational avalanche training? Are you interested in boosting your skills before seeking further Industry Training Programs? The AST level 2 will deepen your knowledge, broaden your experience and skills for better decision making in avalanche terrain.

This 3 & 1/2 day program is the next logical step after completing the AST 1. Similar topics will be covered with more depth and emphasis on adapting personal exposure based on changing conditions & field observations.

This course provide the highest level of recreational avalanche training. It is also a stepping stone for further CAA industry training programs.

For students who have not taken avalanche training in awhile, consider doing the recently developed Companion Rescue course. This program is a one day field program which gives you opportunity to review and renew your skills, get information about new avalanche equipment as well as discover updated probing, shoveling and group rescue techniques.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day 1: We will meet for a 4 hour classroom session during the evening. We will discuss and watch videos on topics like: avalanche hazard recognition, terminology & mechanics, mountain weather, snow pack structure & basic terrain evaluation. We will also sign a waiver and do a gear check.

Day 2, 3 & 4: Back country ski days with a 2 hour classroom session on each the 2nd and 3rd evening. We will generally meet at 8:00am and drive to a ski touring destinations to be established in the West Kootenay backcountry. We will spend 8hrs outside each day. We will focus on learning and practicing skills, including: avalanche hazard recognition, terminology & mechanics, mountain weather, snow pack structure, basic terrain evaluation, terrain evaluation, mountain hazard assessment, safe route finding techniques, snow pack analysis, snow testing techniques, transceiver searches and rescue fundamentals.
Students will receive a CAA certificate and personal feedback before course end

Prerequisites

Successful completion of Avalanche Skills Level 1 (please have dated certificate*). Ensure you have most recent (2010) version of Avaluator™ Trip Planner.

Pre-read Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain by Bruce Tremper

Intermediate skiing or ‘boarding ability (touring equipment or Split board required).

Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of course would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide by phone or email the week before for meeting location. Field days will occur in the Selkirks Mtns, local backcountry near Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG/IFMGA guide service
AST 2 class notes
Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain by Bruce Tremper.
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks, meals when at the lodge
Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
optional & very useful! Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain field book (available through SMG)
2010 Avaluator™ Trip Planner
Transportation or lift fee if applicable
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Courses / Avalanche Training /

Companion Rescue Skills

Learn the most updated rescue technology. Your friends lives and perhaps yours depend on it...

Has it been awhile since your last avalanche skills training? Review and renew your practical rescue skills, get information about new avalanche equipment as well as discover updated probing, shoveling and group rescue techniques.

This 1 day field course is based out of Nelson BC. It follows the Canadian Avalanche Association program, goals and objectives.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The first hour is mainly classroom. We will review new rescue techniques, consider preventative measures, changes in equipment and use of airbags. We will also sign a waiver and do a gear check.

In the field doing we will practice transceiver skills, apply search and rescue techniques, practice searching without a transceiver, consider multiple burial situations, organize a group rescue and look at post-incident considerations during debrief.

Prerequisites

Intermediate backcountry skiing or boarding ability (touring equipment or Split board required). Previous AST 1 training and intermediate to advanced resort riding skills required. Students are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of course would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG/IFMGA guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Avaluator™ Trip Planner
Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
optional & very useful! Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain field book (available through SMG)
Transportation or lift fee if applicable
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Courses / Hiking & Trekking Courses /

Introduction to Backpacking

Learn from an experience local guide how to travel and camp in the alpine wilderness, experience the joy and freedom...

Hike with a professional guide who can teach you tricks around your pack, setting up camp and locating yourself on the map. Enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of carrying all your belongings on your back to tenting in the rugged back country of the West Kootenays. Backpacking trips range from easy to advanced programs and range in length from two to five.

We offer a number of backpacking locations for this course, site selected will depend on student prior experience and trail/weather conditions, visit our favorite trails page for inspiration.

Easy Low Elevation & Shoulder Season

Fry Creek Canyon, Pilot Bay Penisula, Slocan Lakeshore & Beatrice Lake

Moderate Alpine Hikes

Kokanee Glacier Chalet & Glory Basin, Gwilliam Lakes & Lucifer Pass, Monica Meadows & Starbird Pass, Whitewater Canyon & Pass, Alps Alturus & Marten Mt.

Moderate Plus Alpine Hikes

Gimli Ridge & Mulvey Basin, Lyle Basin & Mt. Brennon, McKeen Lakes & Wooden Peak, Mt.Loki or Heart Lakes, Around Silverspray or Woodbury Cabins

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The complete itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather, conditions and course location and travel times to trailhead.

Below is a sample itinerary for a four day program. Skills sessions covered include pacing and walking tips, navigation (maps, compass and GPS skills), preparedness, safe route selection and more.

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting 5 PM in Nelson (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Gear & meals check; session on packing strategy

Day 2 Hike in to remote mountain hut or back country camp location

early morning meet a predetermined location or trail head

3-7 hour hike to base camp, varies on trail difficulty

set up tents, evening meal, camp site skills session

Day 3 Explore alpine meadows, pass or summits

early camp breakfast

day hike from base camp

evening meal, navigation & maps session

Day 4 Hike out

early camp breakfast

small morning hike & camp pack up

3-7 hour hike out & return to town, debrief, course close

Prerequisites

Programs are beginner to advanced. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability.

Good physical fitness and ability to carry a pack is required. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of course would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Due to the higher elevations, proximity to dominant winds and weather conditions, mountain weather is difficult to predict. It is most often worse than the weather in the surrounding valleys and can change quickly as it is really hard to predict for more than 24hrs ahead.

In summer you expect temperatures to be from 10 C to 28C in the day while overnight temperature can drop dramatically in the high alpine, even below zero. Temperatures are much colder at higher elevations, even in the summer. It is not uncommon to have overnight freezing temperatures in the alpine, outside a mountain hut or near a back country camp.

It is always an interesting challenge to know exactly what you are going to get, therefore is important to be flexible with timing and not too attached to a particular goal or objective. Be prepared by bringing all required items, this ensure you will be dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind, precipitation.

Location

Our backpacking programs occur in the Valhalla Mountains, Goat Range, Selkirk and Purcell Mountains near Kaslo, Slocan City, Nelson and New Denver.

Contact your guide by phone or email the week before for meeting location. Your guide will do a two hour briefing and packing demonstration the night in Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified ACMG Hiking or Alpine Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

Not included in price:

snacks & meals *additional $40/day
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this backpacking program will benefit from previous hiking experience. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with carrying a pack is very useful.

Is it safe?

On all back country programs, we provide you with fully certified IFMGA / ACMG Mountain, alpine and hiking guides. This gives you the highest safety standards in the industry. While it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

On the overnight tenting programs we offer participants access to hiking or camping equipment at no extra charge, however you are welcome to bring your own. This includes: hiking poles, tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, stove, pots. Contact us for specifics and availability.

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Courses / Hiking & Trekking Courses /

Navigation in the Mountains

Learn from a seasoned guide on how to read a map, recognize hazardous terrrain and find your way, having fun....

For recreational hikers or leaders interested in travel skills, we offer navigation course that builds your skills in reading the terrain “before” you get lost. Learn seasoned guiding tricks for planning your route, reducing hazards and predicting terrain.

Enjoy being able to decipher a map and visualize the terrain before you get there, then go out and compare. The course is sectioned into two evenings sessions and two field days applying your skills experientially. Choose to learn in class or attend both the indoor and outdoor sessions.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The course is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather and hike location.

Below is a sample itinerary:

Class sessions

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Map reading

map & compass use, terrain classification

hazard recognition & route planning

Field Sessions

map & compass use, terrain classification

hazard recognition & route planning

map & compass skills, gps use

5-7 hr day hike exploring on trail

course closure in field

Prerequisites

Field days are beginner to intermediate trails and terrain. Students are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of course would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Kootenay weather can vary drastically. In summer you expect temperatures to be from 8 C to 28C in the day while overnight temperature can drop dramatically in the high alpine, even below zero. Visibility could be poor or whiteout conditions when raining heavily or snowing or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind, precipitation can change within the day.

Location

Evening sessions will be located in Nelson; field day hikes vary depending on weather, conditions and student fitness. Trailhead within .5-1.25 hour from Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified ACMG Hiking or Alpine Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Course materials & reading
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

Not included in price:

snacks & meals *additional $40/day
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this navigation program you will learn as based on your goals and interest. For field portions, good physical fitness will contribute to a comfortable learning experience.

Is it safe?

On all hike programs, we provide you with fully certified IFMGA / ACMG Mountain, alpine and hiking guides. This gives you the highest safety standards in the industry. While it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

What course materials do I need?

Ensure you have a working compass and all personal equipment for day trip; Click here for equipment list

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Courses / Hiking & Trekking Courses /

Natural History & Ecology

Savour your time in the mountains, understand the stories behind the beauty....

For budding naturalists or guides interested in upgrading skills, we offer custom programs in nature interpretation for hikers interesting in understanding the ecology. You will learn the unique stories behind the biology and ecology linking plant to animal and elevation to critter.

This two day course is experiential based, course content will vary based on season and hike location. The program focuses on the plant, animal and fungi kingdoms; students will begin to recognize animal sign and stories about their interaction in the environment.

Learn about the unique adaptation strategies of various ecosystems, the tough plants and animals that exist in the alpine could definitely teach us a trick or two. Discover the amazing relationships and evolutionary stories that link bird to tree, fungi to plant, trees and disturbance, or insect to flower.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The course is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather and hike location.

Below is a sample itinerary for a two day program.

Below is a sample itinerary:

Day 1

8am Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Ecosystem and local natural history

Gear check & route afternoon hike

3-4 hr afternoon hike practice skills

forest ecology, plant identification, animal sign

debrief

Day 2

8am predetermined location or trail head

5-7 hour hike/exploring on trail

alpine ecology, rock identification, plant & animal connections

course closure in field

Prerequisites

Equipment

Weather

Location

Day hikes vary depending on weather, conditions and student fitness. Trailhead within .5-1.25 hour from Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified ACMG Hiking or Alpine Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Course materials & reading
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

Not included in price:

snacks & meals *additional $40/day
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this natural history program you will learn as based on your goals and interest. For field portions, good physical fitness will contribute to a comfortable learning experience.

Is it safe?

What course materials do I need?

Ensure you have a note pad/camera and all personal equipment for day trip; Click here for equipment list

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Treks & Traverses /

Off-Trail Trekking

Enjoy the rewards and remoteness and safety of off trail trekking with a professional...

Take in incredible mountain scenery and vistas as you hike into the alpine. We offer unique trekking destinations that travel across ridges, through mountain passes and both bolder or meadow fields.

Trekking programs are designed for the experienced hiker seeking the additional thrill of moving between remote camps and learning how to safely navigate through more challenging mountain terrain.

For individuals with ample hiking experience, enjoy the challenge of walking off trail in the mountains on a unique trekking program. Hiking treks can be a fun experience with a group or family and gives a window into the high mountain alpine terrain.

Consider lifting a pack onto your back and enjoy the rewards of stunning views, remote wilderness and the satisfaction of choosing your alpine camp every evening. Your guide will help you safely adjust to the rigor of living daily in the back country.

Moderate Treks (3 field days)

Woodbury Cabin to Silverspray via ridge route, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park
Lemon Creek to Glory Basin and out Gibson Lake, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park

Advanced Treks (3-7 field days)

Gimli Ridge into Mulvey Basin across to Drinnon Pass, Valhalla Provincial Park
Valhalla Traverse, Valhalla Provincial Park

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The complete itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather, conditions and course location. We will either hike in to and be based from different back country tent camps or from a remote mountain huts like Silverspray Hut, Woodbury Cabin or Kokanee Glacier Chalet).

Below is a sample itinerary for a four day program (3 field days). For hiking trekking courses, skills sessions covered include pacing and walking tips, navigation (maps, compass and GPS skills), preparedness, hazard identification, safe route selection and more.

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting 5 PM in Nelson (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Gear & meals check; session on packing strategy

Day 2 Hike in to remote mountain hut or back country camp location

early morning meet a predetermined location or trail head

5-7 hour hike to base camp, varies on trail difficulty

set up tents, evening meal and optional session

Day 3 Hike to 2nd mountain camp

early camp breakfast

pack up tents and equipment

explore alpine meadows, pass or summits en route to next camp

set up tents, evening meal and optional session

Day 4 Hike out

early camp breakfast

small morning hike & camp pack up

5-7 hour hike out & return to town

Prerequisites

Programs are moderate to advanced hikers. Lots of experience day hiking, good physical fitness and ability to carry a pack is required. Prior backpacking experience useful.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Our Off-Trail Trekking programs occur in the Valhalla Mountains, Goat Range, Selkirk and Purcell Mountains near Kaslo, Slocan City, Nelson and New Denver.

Contact your guide by phone or email the week before for meeting location. Your guide will do a two hour briefing and packing demonstration the night in Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified ACMG Hiking or Alpine Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

Not included in price:

snacks & meals *additional $40/day
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this hiking trek program will benefit from previous overnight hiking and camping experience. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with carrying a pack is very useful.

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Treks & Traverses /

On-Trail Traverses

Enjoy classic West Kootenay hiking trails day after day, stay in the alpine ...

We walk classic traverses in the West Kootenay and Rockies regions. Your guide will help you safely traverse the landscape and interpret the geology, terrain, flora and fauna along the way.

Hiking traverses can be as easy or challenging as you like. Your guide can adjust pace and learned skills according to the groups needs and interests. Groups and families can enjoy the bonding that occurs by staying overnight in the back country. Individuals can enjoy taking on various leadership roles and learn how to efficiently move camp and safely navigate mountain terrain, conditions.

Hikers that enjoy trail walking, consider a hiking traverse as it gives the confidence of established trails as well as the enjoyment of moving base camp daily. Traverses are enjoyable ways to see lots of alpine terrain while staying on established trails.

As you set up a new camp each day, you have the opportunity to discover day and night life in the back country. With an experienced guide, this is a rewarding experience with friends or family and gives ample time for exploring the meadows, ridges and summits in the alpine.

West Kootenay (3-4 field days)

Earl Grey Pass, Purcell Mountains
Silver Cup Ridge, Goat Provincial Park

Rockies (3-4 field days)

The Rockwall, Kootenay Natinonal Park
Skyline Trail, Jasper National Park

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Below is a sample itinerary for a five day program (4 field days). For hiking traverse courses, skills sessions covered include pacing and walking tips, navigation (maps, compass and GPS skills), preparedness, hazard identification, safe route selection and more.

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting 5 PM in town (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Gear & meals check; session on packing strategy

Day 2 Hike in to remote mountain hut or back country camp location

early morning meet a predetermined location or trail head

5-7 hour hike to base camp, varies on trail difficulty

set up tents, evening meal and optional session

Day 3 Hike to 2nd mountain camp

early camp breakfast

pack up tents and equipment

explore alpine meadows, pass or summits en route to next camp

set up tents, evening meal and optional session

Day 4 Hike to 3rd mountain camp

early camp breakfast

pack up tents and equipment

explore alpine meadows, pass or summits en route to next camp

set up tents, evening meal and optional session

Day 5 Hike out

early camp breakfast

small morning hike & camp pack up

5-7 hour hike out & return to town

Prerequisites

Programs are beginner to advanced hikers. Lots of experience day hiking, good physical fitness and ability to carry a pack is required. Prior backpacking experience can be an asset.

Equipment

Glacier_Hikes_Equipment_List.pdf

Weather

Location

Our On-Trail Traverses occur in the Valhalla Mountains, Goat Range, Selkirk and Purcell Mountains near Kaslo, Slocan City, Nelson and New Denver; see our favorite trails page for inspiration. We also offer some of the classic traverses in B.C. and Alberta Rockies.

Contact your guide by phone or email the week before for meeting location. Your guide will do a two hour briefing and packing demonstration the night in Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified ACMG Hiking or Alpine Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

Not included in price:

snacks & meals *additional $40/day
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this hiking trek program will benefit from previous overnight hiking and camping experience. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with carrying a pack is very useful.

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Backpacking /

Glacier Hikes

Expand your hiking adventure onto ancient ice, trek on glaciers with an alpine guide…

We explore onto ice in Kokanee Glacier, Woodbury Glacier, Whitewater Pass, Starbird Pass, MacBeth Icefield, Horseshoe Glacier and more. Programs for very advanced hikers can be done in a two day program, usually three for more enjoyment in the alpine.

With a certified alpine guide you’ll learn how to rope up and walk on the glacier and move safely around crevasses, learn to use an ice axe, may use crampons and perhaps even summit a small peak! Glacier trekking can be a fun experience with a group or family and gives a window into the high mountain alpine terrain.

We offer a number of backpacking hikes that access glaciers, each different from one another, choose from one of our classics below or visit our favorite trails page for inspiration.

Tent Based

Whitewater Glacier
Mt. Brennan Glacier
MacBeth Icefield
Horseshoe Glacier

Hut Based

Kokanee Glacier

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The complete itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather, conditions and course location. To maximize your learning, this course will either be based at a remote mountain hut or a back country camp.

Below is a sample itinerary for a four day program.

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting 5 PM in Nelson (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Gear & meals check; session on packing strategy

Day 2 Hike in to remote mountain hut or back country camp location

early morning meet a predetermined location or trail head

3-7 hour hike to base camp, varies on trail difficulty

set up tents, evening meal and optional session

For students on a course skills sessions covered include pacing and walking tips, navigation (maps, compass and GPS skills), preparedness, safe route selection and more.

Day 3 Walking on Glacial Ice

early camp breakfast

skills sessions on ice including knots, rope management, pacing, crampon/ice axe use and hike to summit or view point

evening meal and optional session

Day 4 Hike out

early camp breakfast

small morning hike & camp pack up

3-7 hour hike out & return to town

Prerequisites

Programs are beginner to advanced. Good physical fitness, comfort and experience with hiking and carrying a pack. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability.

Please contact us to discuss your background and which location would suit you best. No previous climbing or mountaineering experience is required for this experience but is useful, consider a beginner rock climbing course.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Our backpacking glacier hikes programs occur in the Valhalla Mountains, Goat Range, Selkirk and Purcell Mountains near Kaslo, Nelson and New Denver.

Contact your guide by phone or email the week before for meeting location. Your guide will do a two hour briefing and packing demonstration the night in Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG Hiking or Alpine Guide service
Park Permit & Liability Insurance
Glacier trekking equipment (glacier rope, harnesses, helmets, ice axe/crampons if necessary
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Snacks & Meals *additional $40/day
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this backpacking and glacier walking program will benefit from previous hiking experience. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with carrying an overnight pack is very useful.

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

On the overnight tenting programs we offer participants access to hiking or camping equipment at no extra charge, however you are welcome to bring your own. This includes: glacier trekking equipment, hiking poles, tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, stove, pots etc. Contact us for specifics and availability.

Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?

We have some equipment available for rent, contact us. If you’d like to buy gear consider outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent/buy gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Backpacking /

Overnight Alpine Hikes

Immerse yourself in the alpine in a remote mountain hut or back country camping experience...

Overnight backpacking guided hikes allow you to enjoy and begin to understand the beauty and unique vistas in the back country. You can keep your pack light by staying at a hut or enjoy the challenge of ascending with your hotel on your back. Invest a third day to explore the pristine mountains and discover the stories behind the unique alpine flora and fauna.

The West Kootenay hiking near Nelson, Kaslo and New Denver provides a diverse array established wilderness trails for beginner walkers to very experienced hikers. We can build a multi-day hiking program to suit you, a family or a groups interests, experience and taste for adventure!

Enjoy the pristine and rugged mountain scenery on trails in Valhalla Provincial Park, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Goat Range Provincial Park and many unique destinations. We offer a number of backpacking hikes, each different from one another, choose from one of our classics below or visit our favorite trails page for inspiration.

Easy Low Elevation & Shoulder Season

Fry Creek Canyon, Pilot Bay Penisula, Slocan Lakeshore & Beatrice Lake

Moderate Alpine Hikes

Kokanee Glacier Chalet & Glory Basin, Gwilliam Lakes & Lucifer Pass, Monica Meadows & Starbird Pass, Whitewater Canyon & Pass, Alps Alturus & Marten Mt.

Moderate to Advanced Alpine Hikes

Gimli Ridge & Mulvey Basin, Lyle Basin & Mt. Brennon, McKeen Lakes & Wooden Peak, Mt.Loki or Heart Lakes, Around Silverspray or Woodbury Cabins

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The complete itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather, conditions and hike location. We will either hike in to and be based at a remote mountain hut or a back country camp.

Below is a sample itinerary for a four day program. For backpacking courses, skills sessions covered include pacing and walking tips, navigation (maps, compass and GPS skills), preparedness, safe route selection and more.

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting 5 PM in Nelson (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Gear & meals check; session on packing strategy

Day 2 Hike in to remote mountain hut or back country camp location

early morning meet a predetermined location or trail head

3-7 hour hike to base camp, varies on trail difficulty

set up tents, evening meal and optional session

Day 3 Explore alpine meadows, pass or summits

early camp breakfast

day hike from base camp

evening meal and optional session

Day 4 Hike out

early camp breakfast

small morning hike & camp pack up

3-7 hour hike out & return to town

Prerequisites

Programs are beginner to advanced. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability.

Good physical fitness and ability to carry a pack is required. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of backpacking location would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Our backpacking programs occur in the Valhalla Mountains, Goat Range, Selkirk and Purcell Mountains near Kaslo, Slocan City, Nelson and New Denver.

Contact your guide by phone or email the week before for meeting location. Your guide will do a two hour briefing and packing demonstration the night in Nelson.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified ACMG Hiking or Alpine Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

Not included in price:

snacks & meals *additional $40/day
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this backpacking program will benefit from previous hiking experience. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with carrying a pack is very useful.

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Introduction to Mountaineering

Discover the rewards and freedom of mountaineering, learn the skills and gain confidence while exploring this empowering activity...

This 5 day course is a comprehensive introduction to general mountaineering on rock, snow, glaciers and mixed terrain. It combines the skills thought in the Intro to Rock Climbing course with the ones learned on the Snow and Ice course. Rock skills include belaying skills, movement skills on rock, anchor construction, rappelling, rope handling. Snow & Ice skills include; ice axe and crampon use, self-arrests, snow and glacier travel skills, navigation, hazard assessment and crevasse rescue fundamentals as well as a possible peak ascents.

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps. Some of the areas we often visit on the Nelson courses include; Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Valhalla Provincial Parks & Goat range Provincial Park in the Selkirk mountains, the MacBeth Icefields, the Horseshoe Glacier and Starbird Pass and Glacier Dome near Glacier creek in the Purcell mountains.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

As previously mentioned, this 5 day course combines the intro to rock climbing course & snow and ice course curriculum. The complete itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather, conditions and course location. To maximize your learning, this course will either be based at a remote mountain hut or a backcountry camp. Below is a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting; 7:00 PM in town (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 2: Rock Skills day; 8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

Intro to common rock climbing equipment

Movement skills intro and bouldering

Basic knots, belaying, rope handling and commands

Rock climbing with the safety of a rope

Integration of movement skills while roped climbing

Climb, climb, climb!

Practice belaying, rappelling and anchor construction if time allows

Day 3 to 5: Remote mountain hut or backcountry camp location

On these intense 4 backcountry based days we will focus on snow, ice and glacier skills and plan on ascending a few of the local peaks. The proximity of the mountain environment will provide with many learning opportunities for the students. Some of the topics that will be covered in this section include movement skills on mixed, snow and ice terrain, ice axe and crampon use, self-arrests, snow and glacier travel skills, navigation (maps, compass and GPS skills), preparedness, emergency procedures, hazard assessment, safe route selection, snow & ice anchors, roped travel on glaciers, crevasse rescue fundamentals as well as ascending some local peaks

Day 6: Last day

We will have some time in the morning to touch up on any of the previously learned skills or try something new! The after-noon will be spent hiking out and returning to civilization

Prerequisites

No previous climbing experience is required for this course, it is an asset. A desire to learn along with a positive attitude will get you a long ways!

Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with overnight backpacking and carrying heavy packs is very usefull. This course provide a good oportunity to learn how to walk off trails, in snow (at times deep), on glacier ice (with or without crampons) and on uneven rocky terrain.

Equipment

Weather

Location

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps.

Some of the areas we often visit on the Nelson courses include; Kokanee Glacier ProvincialPark, Valhalla Provincial Parks & Goat range Provincial Park in the Selkirk mountains, The MacBeth Icefields, the Horseshoe Glacier and Starbird Pass near Glacier creek in the Purcell mountains.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this course, students will benefit from previous mountaineering and rock climbing experience however it is not required. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with overnight backpacking and carrying heavy packs is very useful.

Is it safe?

On all our courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guaranties you the highest safety standards in the industry. Mountaineering remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

On this program we offer participants access to all the technical equipment at no extra charge. This includes; harnesses, helmets, belay device, carabineers, ice axes, crampons and much more. Contact us for specific sizes and availability.

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Complete Mountaineering

Broaden, fine tune and learn leadership skills; this intensive course is for intermediate to advanced mountaineers...

This 5 day course is for people interested in fine tuning their existing mountaineering skills or bringing them to the next level. On this course we will be covering more thoroughly the skills introduced on the intro to mountaineering course and many new skills. Some of the topics covered include advanced snow and glacier travel, ice climbing, alpine rock climbing, advanced crevasse rescue, advanced navigation, route planning, mountain weather, hazard management and leadership. The curriculum is flexible and may vary depending on participant interest. To fully grasp this course, students must have previous rock climbing and mountaineering experience.

The curriculum is flexible and may vary depending on participant interest. There will be plenty of peak ascent opportunities. Participants will have many chances to practice leading while being safely supervised and get constructive feedback from the instructors.

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps. Some of the areas we often visit on the Nelson courses include; Kokanee Glacier ProvincialPark, Valhalla Provincial Parks & Goat range Provincial Park in the Selkirk mountains, the MacBeth Icefields, the Horseshoe Glacier and Starbird Pass near Glacier creek in the Purcell mountains.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The Complete Mountaineering Course is a 5 day program. The itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather, conditions and course location. To maximize your learning, this course will either be based at a remote mountain hut or a backcountry camp. The proximity of the mountain environment will provide with many learning opportunities for the students. Below is a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting; 7:00 PM in town (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals, agenda & waivers.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 2: Drive, hike in & set up camp
After an early start, we will drive to the trail head and hike into the backcountry location selected for the course. Once the camp is established, we will spend the remainder of the day reviewing skills like movement skills, rope management, crevasse rescue and navigation. When ever possible, the instructor will give participant the opportunity to practice leadership skills

Day 3: Skills Review Day
Day 3 focus is to review, standardize and integrate some of the advanced mountaineering skills and techniques. Some of the topics that will be covered in this section include advanced snow and glacier travel, ice climbing, alpine rock climbing, advanced crevasse rescue, advanced navigation, route planning, mountain weather skills, hazard management and leadership

Day 4 to 6: More Skills and Peak Ascents
The focus on these last 3 days is to ascend as many peaks as possible while we continue working on various mountaineering skills and give ample leadership opportunities to participants. Participant will be responsible for choosing some of the objectives and the skills they are interested on expanding on. On the last day, we will try and accomplish one last peak ascent before hiking out and returning to civilization. The exact return time is flexible and depends on participant goals and needs

Prerequisites

Varied outdoor rock climbing experience with comfort climbing 5.8, experience with rope management and previous rock climbing course (intro to advanced) is useful. Previous overnight backpacking, mountaineering experience and participation in an introduction to mountaineering course is important. Excellent physical fitness and ability to carry heavy pack on rocky terrain, snow and off trails.

Equipment

Weather

Location

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps.

Some of the areas we often visit on the Nelson courses include; Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Valhalla Provincial Parks & Goat range Provincial Park in the Selkirk mountains, The MacBeth Icefields, the Horseshoe Glacier and Starbird Pass near Glacier creek in the Purcell mountains.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Hut fees and Park permits
Emergency response plan

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Snow & Ice Course

Learn basic snow, ice and glaciers skills; mountaineering at your fingertips...

This 3 day course is a condensed introduction to mountaineering with a focus on snow, ice and glacier travel skills. It is specially designed for motivated students and people who have been exposed to mountaineering, rock climbing or taken an introduction to rock climbing course before. Snow & Ice skills covered on this course include; ice axe and crampon use, self-arrests, snow and glacier travel skills, navigation, hazard assessment and crevasse rescue fundamentals as well as a possible peak ascents.

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps. Some of the areas we often visit on the Nelson courses include; Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Valhalla Provincial Parks & Goat range Provincial Park in the Selkirk mountains, The MacBeth Icefields, the Horseshoe Glacier and Starbird Pass near Glacier creek in the Purcell mountains.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

3 day Snow and Ice Course Itinerary. The complete itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant needs, weather, conditions and course location. To maximize your learning, this course will either be based at a remote mountain hut or a backcountry camp. Below is a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Pre-trip meeting; 7:00 PM in town (2 hours)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 2 to 4: Remote mountain hut or backcountry camp location

On these intense 3 backcountry based days we will focus on snow, ice and glacier skills and hopefully get a chance to ascend a local peak. The proximity of the mountain environment will provide with many learning opportunities for the students. Some of the topics that will be covered include movement skills on mixed, snow and ice terrain, ice axe and crampon use, self-arrests, snow and glacier travel skills, navigation (maps, compass and GPS skills), preparedness, emergency procedures, hazard assessment, safe route selection, snow & ice anchors, roped travel on glaciers and crevasse rescue fundamentals

Prerequisites

On this course, students will benefit from previous mountaineering and rock climbing experience. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with overnight backpacking and carrying heavy packs is very usefull.

A desire to learn along with a positive attitude will get you a long ways!

Equipment

Weather

Location

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Skills Refresher

Become more independent, refresh or learn specific mountaineering skills with our qualified instructors...

This 1 day course is to refresh and learn specific mountaineering skills. The curriculum is highly driven by participants interests and needs. Some possible topics include; crevasse rescue skills, review of ice axe skills and self-arrests, snow & ice anchors, navigation, route planning, hazard assessment, glacier travel and rope work. Join a certified mountain guide or alpine guide and enjoy direct feedback and the opportunity to practice your skills for the upcoming season.

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps. Some of the areas we often visit on the Nelson courses include; Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Valhalla Provincial Parks & Goat range Provincial Park in the Selkirk mountains, The MacBeth Icefields, the Horseshoe Glacier and Starbird Pass near Glacier creek in the Purcell mountains.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The complete itinerary is somewhat flexible and will vary depending on participant interests, needs, weather, conditions and course location. Expect a full day in the mountain with an early start. For maximum value, it is possible to custom design and extend this program over a few days. Contact us for more information.

Prerequisites

On this course, students will benefit from previous mountaineering and rock climbing experience. Good physical fitness is a must, comfort and experience with walking off trail and carrying a large day packs is very useful.

A desire to learn along with a positive attitude will get you a long ways!

Equipment

Weather

Location

This course is available in the Nelson area, the Canadian Rockies, the Coast mountains and the European Alps.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Rock Climbing / Daily Guided Rock Climbing /

Nelson Rock Climbing

Far from the crowds, the Nelson area offers a great variety of quality climbs...

Located in South-Eastern British Columbia, The vibrant comunity of Nelson is home to some of the finest rock climbing the BC interior. Its geographical location gives quick access to fantastic rock climbing in the Purcells, Monashees and Selkirks mountains. The area offers an interesting variety of sound rock types from granite or gniess to limestone.

The climbing here is remote and offers many quality single and multi-pitch rock climbs far from the crowds. The Nelson and Castlegar areas have seen significant rock climbing development in recent years and with the publication of the new West Kootenay Rock guide, climbers have more than 400 sports routes to choose from.

Consider some local multipitch routes, David has put up near Nelson including:

“The Date” on Pulpit Rock, Nelson (half day climb; 3 pitches) *for map and route description

“Megawatts” near Brillant Dam, Castlegar (full day climb, 8 pitches) *for map and route description

Summit Mountain Guides offers various 1 to 5 day rock climbing programs in the Nelson and West Kootenay area. Some of the rock site we climb at include: Kinnard Bluffs, Brilliant Bluff and the Waterline near Castlegar, Slocan Bluffs, Koch Creek slabs, Cougars Creek Bluffs and Skydome in the Slocan valley and various other local craggs like Pulpit rock, Woodbury bluff and Ymir bluffs.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day rock climbing itineraries are somewhat flexible. A typical guided rock climbing day will start around 8:00 AM at a local cragg. Depending on group needs and particular climbs, we will generally be done before 5.00 PM.

Prerequisites

These guided outings are for climbers of all abilities. No previous climbing experience required. Previous outdoor or indoor climbing experience is an asset. Join us and safely learn this exciting sport from our skilled instructors. Learning oportunities abound for all experience levels.

Equipment

Weather

Spring and fall temperatures in the West Kootenays can vary wildly from 0C to +20C during the day. Conditions can change from warm sunshine to isolated showers quickly. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation tends to change within the day.

Summer (July and August) tend to be more predictable but can be very hot. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from +20C to +30C. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water specially during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.

Location

Participants will be meeting with the guide at 8:00 AM at a pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site in the West Kootenays. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
All technical equipment
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On these guided trips, no previous climbing experience is required. Climbs will be selected based on participants ability and previous experiences. There is a challange for everyone including the most experienced!

Is it safe?

For all of our climbing programs and courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guaranties you the highest safety standards in the Canadian and international industry. Rock climbing remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Do I need any of my own climbing equipment?

On these guided outings, participant require all thier personal equipment; harnesses, helmets, rock shoes, belay device and carabiners. Summit Mountain Guides has a limited selection of equipment available for rental at affordable rates. Let us know if you need any particular gear/sizes or if you plan to bring your own.

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Rock Climbing / Daily Guided Rock Climbing /

Canadian Rockies Rock Climbing

The Canadian Rockies are a world class rock climbing destination…

Famous for their well preserved wilderness and natural beauty, the Canadian Rockies near Banff and Jasper National parks offer the highest concentration and variety of single and multi pitch rock climbs in Canada. The limestone & quartzite rock walls surrounding the mountain communities of Canmore, Banff, Lake Lousie and Jasper boast a life time of long quality climbs for you to discover.

Whether you are an individual with specific goals, interested in single or multi pitch climbs of various difficulties or a group/family looking for a fun day out climbing on rock, we have a program for you. Summit Mountain Guides offers day and multi-day guided rock climbing program in the Canadian Rockies from June through September.

Some of the crags and cliffs we enjoy climbing at in the Bow Valley and Kananaskis country include: the Back of the Lake Crags in Lake Louise, the Grand Sentinel, the Tower of Babel, Guides Rock, Tunnel Mountain, the East end of Rundle, Kanga cliff, Grassy Lakes, Cougar creek, Heart creek crags and slabs, Kid Goat, Yamnuska, Barrier bluffs, Wasootch Slabs and more.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Prerequisites

Equipment

Weather

Spring and fall temperatures in the Canadian Rockies can vary wildly from 0C to +20C during the day. Conditions can change from warm sunshine to isolated showers quickly. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation tends to change within the day.

Summer (July and August) tend to be more predictable and daytime temperatures can vary from 15C to sometime 30c. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from 20C to 25C. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water specially during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.

Location

Participants will be meeting with the guide at 8:00 AM at a pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site in the Canadian Rockies. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services

15 years of experience in the area

Alternative plan based on current conditions

All technical equipment

Emergency response plan

Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Do I need any of my own climbing equipment?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in the Canadain Rockies that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Canmore:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (403) 678-5610 www.shop.vpo.ca

Banff:

Mountain Magic Equipment: (403) 762-2591 www.mountainmagic.com
Monod Sports: (403) 762-4571 www.monodsports.com

Lake Louise:

Wilson Mountain Sports: (866) 929-3636 www.lakelouisewilsons.com

Golden:

180 Mountain Sports: (250) 344-4699 www.180golden.com
Selkirk Source for Sports: (250) 344-2966

Home / Rock Climbing / Daily Guided Rock Climbing /

Squamish Rock Climbing

Squamish, British Columbia is one of the world’s finest granite rock climbing area…

Located on the West coast of Canada, along the Vancouver-Whistler corridor, the town of Squamish and the Squamish Chief is a rock climber’s paradise. “The Chief”, a 700m granite monolith, and its surrounding rock bluffs boast a fantastic density of granite slabs and crack climbs. The area is a traditional climber’s dream as it offers an incredible variety of long quality multi-pitch and single pitch crack climbs. Join us and discover this Canadian gem.

Summit Mountain Guides offers day and multi-day guided rock climbing programs in the Squamish and Sea to Sky region from April through October. Whether you are an individual with a specific goal, interested in single or multi pitch climbs of various difficulties or a group/family looking for a fun day out on the rock, we have a program for you. We specialize in custom designing guided rock climbing programs and trips.

Some of the crags and cliff we often visit in the Squamish area include, the Squamish Chief, the Grand wall, the Squaw, the Apron, the Smoke bluffs, Murrin park, Mount Habrich, the Malamute, Cheakamus Canyon and more…

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day rock climbing itineraries are somewhat flexible. A typical guided rock climbing day will start around 8:00 AM at a local crag. Depending on group needs and particular climbs, we will generally be done before 5.00 PM. Some of the longer multi-pitch routes may require an earlier start.

Prerequisites

Equipment

Weather

Temperatures and weather conditions in Squamish tend to be more predictable from May through August. The averaged daytime high for May and June is between 17c and 20c; it sits between 22c and 23c for the months of July and August. Statistically these months are also very dry compared to the rest of the year with July being the driest.

Daily conditions can sometimes change from warm sunshine to isolated showers quickly. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change within the day. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water especially during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.

Location

Participants will be meeting with the guide at 8:00 AM at a pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site in the Squamish area. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services

15 years of experience in the area

Alternative plan based on current conditions

All technical equipment

Emergency response plan

Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Do I need any of my own climbing equipment?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in the Vancouver-Squamish-Whistler area that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Vancouver:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (604)-872-8872 www.shop.vpo.ca
Mountain Equipment Co-op: (604) 872-7858 www.mec.ca

Squamish:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (604) 892-9092 www.shop.vpo.ca
Climb On: (604) 892-2243 climbonsquamish.com

Whistler:

Escape Route: 1-888-898-3277 www.escaperoute.ca

Home / Rock Climbing / Daily Guided Rock Climbing /

Skaha & other BC Rock Climbing

Discover British Columbia’s popular rock climbing regions with a guide…

British Columbia is blessed with a diverse variety of ecosystems along with a fascinating Geology; this has sculpted many attractive cliffs awaiting the keen climbers. BC is peppered with quality bluffs and rock walls featuring various rock types, Skaha near Penticton in the Okanagan valley is a fine example with fantastic sport and trad climbing on compact gneiss. Curious climbers visiting the West Coast area, the BC Interior, the Okanagan valley, the Columbia and the Kootenay regions will be pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety of rock climbing available.

Summit Mountain Guides offers day and multi-day guided rock climbing programs in all of the most popular climbing areas in British Columbia from April through October. Whether you are an individual with a specific goal, interested in single or multi pitch climbs of various difficulties or a group/family looking for a fun day out on the rock, we have a program for you. We specialize in custom designing guided rock climbing programs and trips.

Some of the crags and cliffs we often visit in British Columbia include, Skaha bluffs near Penticton, Cougar Canyon near Vernon, the Kelowna crags, Roche Lake near Kamloops, Yak peak in the Hope region, Marble Canyon in the Lillooet area, Begbie bluffs, Lauretta slabs & Water world in the Revelstoke area, Spilli bluffs near Golden, the Grand wall, the Smoke bluffs and the Chief in the Squamish area, and more…

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Prerequisites

Equipment

Click here for the Equipment List

Weather

Temperatures and weather conditions in British Columbia tend to be more predictable from July through September. The averaged daytime high for July and August is between 25c and 28c. Statistically these months are also very dry compared to the rest of the year with August being the driest. Spring and Fall also offer great climbing weather, April, May and June are good months for rock climbing on sunny cliffs although the weather is a little more unpredictable. September and October are both very good month for rock climbing in BC with cooler temperature but more predictable weather conditions.

Location

Participants will be meeting with the guide at 8:00 AM at a pre-establish outdoor BC rock climbing site. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services

15 years of experience in the area

Alternative plan based on current conditions

All technical equipment

Emergency response plan

Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Do I need any of my own climbing equipment?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Abbotsford:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (604) 850 5523 www.shop.vpo.ca

Banff:

Mountain Magic Equipment: (403) 762-2591 www.mountainmagic.com
Monod Sports: (403) 762-4571 www.monodsports.com

Canmore:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (403) 678-5610 www.shop.vpo.ca

Golden:

180 Mountain Sports: (250) 344-4699 www.180golden.com
Selkirk Source for Sports: (250) 344-2966

Kamloops:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (250) 377 0157 www.shop.vpo.ca

Kelowna:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (778) 478 9600 www.shop.vpo.ca

Lake Louise:

Wilson Mountain Sports: (866) 929-3636 www.lakelouisewilsons.com

New Denver:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (250) 358 7755 www.shop.vpo.ca

Nelson:

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Revelstoke:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (250) 837 5517 www.shop.vpo.ca

Squamish:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (604) 892-9092 www.shop.vpo.ca
Climb On: (604) 892-2243 climbonsquamish.com

Vernon:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (250) 545 9555 www.shop.vpo.ca

Vancouver:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (604)-872-8872 www.shop.vpo.ca
Mountain Equipment Co-op: (604) 872-7858 www.mec.ca

Whistler:

Escape Route: 1-888-898-3277 www.escaperoute.ca

Home / Ski Touring / Ski-Mountaineering /

Mount Waddington

Ski the crown jewel of British Columbia's Coast mountains...

Mount Waddington, 4019m above see level, is the highest peak in the Coast mountain range of British Columbia. While the main summit is technical and only accessible in summer by advanced mountaineers, the North West summit (4000m high) provides one of the most interesting and aesthetic ski mountaineering challenge in the coast mountains. It is a Canadian Classic!

While Waddington is the main goal on this trip, the area offers many other interesting peak ascents/descents including; Mount Munday, Jester, Cavalier & Finality Mountains. Join us and discover the massive scale of the Waddington Icecap area while ski-mountaineering on some of the largest glaciers & peaks in British Columbia. This 9 day trip is offered by Summit Mountain Guides from mid April to late May.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

2011 Itinerary

The weather and conditions will have a direct effect on our exact itinerary. Here is a sample itinerary:

May 7th; Participants will meet the guide(s) at 4pm at the White Saddle B&B in Bluff Lake for a relaxing dinner followed by a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.
May 8th; We will fly to the Dias Glacier, establish our base camp, do an avalanche beacon exercise and go for a short ski-tour.
May 9th through 16th; Depending on the weather, conditions and participants, we will use the best possible window of opportunity to ascent to the Northwest summit of Mount Waddington. Ideally we will work ourselves up to it by acclimatizing and ski touring some of the nearby summits including; Mt Munday, Jester, Cavalier & Finality Mountains.
May 16th and 17th; We will fly back to Bluff Lake in the afternoon of May 16th and enjoy a refreshing homemade meal and last night at the White Saddle B&B. After a luxurious breakfast on May 17th, participants will start individual travels back home.

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate to advance ski mountaineering program. You must have prior overnight winter camping experience and be an advanced intermediate downhill skier. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Prior experience with Summit Mountain Guides helps you anticipate the difficulty and style of our program. It is an asset. Please contact us to discuss your background.

Equipment

Weather

The Coast mountain weather can vary drastically in winter, it tends to be drier and more stable in the Spring. In April and May, you expect alpine temperatures to be from -15C to 0C in the day while in early morning and at night temperatures could fall well below that. Statistically, advanced Spring offers the best possible weather for ski mountaineering in the Waddington area. The longer days, warmer temperatures, more stable snowpack & typically drier conditions all contribute to this.

Despite the weather trends, visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change within the day.

Location

Mount Waddington and the Waddington Icecap are located in the Coast Mountains of South-Western British Columbia. We will access this pristine and remote mountain wilderness area by helicopter from Bluff Lake, B.C. Since it takes 8 to 10 hours to drive from Vancouver to Bluff Lake, we highly recommend that participants car pool. Participants will meet the guide(s) at 4pm on the 1st day at the White Saddle B&B in Bluff Lake for a relaxing Dinner followed by a final gear check. We will then go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
All helicopter access fees to the Dias Glacier(in and out)
Winter camping equipment (tents, stoves and cooking supplies)
All Breakfast and Dinners while on trip
Group safety equipment (satellite phone, ropes, rescue kit, first aid, GPS, maps)
2 nights at the White Saddle B & B in Bluff Lake
Alternative plan based on current conditions

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal equipment (personal ski & safety gear, sleeping bag, overnight gear, etc.)
Transportation to and from Bluff Lake
Trip cancellation insurance, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Alpine Ski-touring or Telemark gear? Which should you use?

If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier should you use Telemark gear.

Spring skiing the high alpine environment offers variable snow conditions. On one particular run things may go from perfect powder to challenging breakable crust and or variable wind affected snow. When compounded, the variable snow conditions, the long ski touring days and the large day packs all call towards the use of an easier skiing set up like alpine touring.

The Waddington icecap provide a fantastic mountain travel experience. The skis become a traveling medium in the greater goal of getting from A to B. Alpine touring makes for fast and efficient travel hence contributing to a safer and more successful experience.

Home / Ski Touring / Ski-Mountaineering /

Mount Logan

Remote, giant & surreal, Mount Logan provides a unique landscape experience...

Mount Logan, 5960m above see level, is located in the remote St. Elias Range of North Western Canada in the Yukon Territory. It is the crown jewel of Kluane National Park and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Logan is the highest peak in Canada, and though second in North America only to Mount McKinley, is a more spectacular mountain without the crowds. This 20day ski mountaineering expedition is serious and rewarding, it is best done in late May and early June.

The Ski Mountaineering route of choice up Mount Logan is the famous King’s trench. This route features generally straightforward ski touring terrain on large broken glaciers and involves winter camping at high altitude. The ascent gradually climbs 3500m over 23kms, from base camp to summit, and offers a fantastic panorama on some of the biggest glaciers in the world.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The weather and conditions will have a significant effect on our exact itinerary. Below is a sample itinerary from Anchorage, Alaska. Flying-in from Alaska provides the most reliable and timely access to the mountain. There are almost never any weather delays or other groups waiting in a queue when flying in or out from Alaska. We also offer this trip from the Canadian side via Whitehorse and Kluane Lake, contact us for more details on this option.

The ascent of mount Logan via the King’s Trench is a high altitude ski tour with no technical climbing. It gradually climbs 3500m over 23kms, from base camp to summit, and offers a fantastic panorama of some of the biggest glaciers in the world. From our Base-camp at 2800m, our ski ascent will gradually take us up the King’ Trench to King Col (4000m). The lower angle nature of this section will allow us to pull a lot of our supplies with sleds right up to King col (camp 2). From King Col to our high camp near Prospector Col (5500m), we will be carrying supplies and equipment with our back packs. On this section we will ascend no more than 600m per days using the “carry high-sleep low” method. This method combined with some strategic rest days will help the team acclimatize properly to higher elevation. From our high camp, we will wait for the best weather window to make an attempt to the main summit (5960m/19560’). If the team acclimatize well and the weather cooperates with our progress, we should have a full week worth of supplies and time at high camp for our summit bid.

Here is a sample itinerary:

Day 1 (Pre-trip meeting): We will meet at 4pm on the first day of the trip at a predetermine location in Anchorage, Alaska. We will share a relaxing dinner followed by a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver
Day 2: We will take a 4 hour shuttle east to Chitna and fly to the beautiful Ultima Thule lodge where we will spend one last civilized night before heading into the mountains for 20days. We will likely camp out in our tents here but will benefit from the Lodge generous cuisine. This will also provide one last opportunity to pack and review our gear before setting off
Day 3: After an early breakfast, we will fly to the Alaska-Yukon border and ski 9kms across a flat glacier to the King Trench Base-camp. This will give us an opportunity to familiarize ourselves with our equipment while enjoying some fine views of Mount Logan

Day 4-20: These days will be spent ascending the mountain. Here is the strategy we will use on the mountain: From our Base-camp at 2800m, our ski ascent will gradually take us up the King’ Trench to King Col (4000m). The lower angle nature of this section will allow us to pull a lot of our supplies with sleds right up to King col (camp 2). From King Col to our high camp near Prospector Col (5500m), we will be carrying supplies and equipment with our back packs. On this section we will ascend no more than 600m per days using the “carry high-sleep low” method. This method combined with some strategic rest days will help the team acclimatize properly to higher elevation. From our high camp, we will wait for the best weather window to make an attempt to the main summit (5960m/19560’). If the team acclimatize well and the weather cooperates with our progress, we should have a full week worth of supplies and time at our high camp for our summit bid.
Day 21-22: The descent down the mountain, back across to our pick-up location at the Alaska-Yukon border and flight out to Chitna will take about 2 days. From the Chitna air strip, we will drive 45minutes to the beautiful Copper River Princess Lodge for a well deserved shower, group Dinner and celebratory evening.
Day 23: Shuttle back to Anchorage by 11am.*Program could end 1 to 2 days earlier.

A successful ascent up mount Logan is not guarantied. Whether we successfully climb to the summit or not depends on many factor including: the weather, avalanche & snow conditions along with individual participants fitness level. We are experienced guides & passionate mountain climbers. While keeping safety as a top priority, we will do our best to reach the summit with as many participants as possible. In our mind, a successful expedition is one which you safely return from to tell the tales.

Prerequisites

This is an advance ski mountaineering program. You must have previous overnight winter camping experience and be an advanced intermediate downhill skier. Previous high altitude mountaineering experience is an important asset. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability.

Prior experience with Summit Mountain Guides is not required however it is highly recommended. This helps you anticipate the difficulty and style of our programs. It also contribute to building a better relationship with the guide before heading out on a long remote trip. Please contact us to discuss your goals & background.

Equipment

Click here for the Equipment List

Weather

The weather on Mount Logan generally comes from the Gulf of Alaska, 90km away, to the Southwest. Due to its close proximity to the ocean and high latitude, the weather on Logan is a mix of moist maritime pattern with cold arctic temperatures.

It is not uncommon to have big snow storms with very high winds, even in the Spring. The temperatures can vary widely in the springtime. They usually range from –15C overnight to 0C during the day. At higher elevation, temperatures will be colder and often drop below -30C overnight.

Location

The Mount Logan massif is located in the Southwest corner of the Yukon Territory in Western Canada, just above the 60th parallel. The massif is inside Kluane National Park and is the crown-jewel of the St-Elias Mountains. Logan is difficult to reach by foot as it is surrounded by some of the largest glaciers in the world and that it is 140km from the nearest road. Due to the remoteness of this expedition, the higher altitude and latitudes encountered, careful preparation is required.

The starting point of this expedition will be Anchorage, Alaska. From Anchorage we will take a 4 hour shuttle Eastward to the small village of Chitna. From the Chitna airstrip, we will fly to the mountain by ski plane. The King Trench base camp is only 9km from the Alaska-Yukon border. Flying-in from the Alaska provides the most reliable and timely access to the mountain. There are almost never any weather delays or other groups waiting in a queue when flying in or out from this side.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
Shuttle from Anchorage to Chitna, return
Ski plane access fees from Chitna, return
Winter camping equipment (tents, stoves and cooking supplies)
All Breakfast and Dinners while on trip
2 hotel nights (1 before & 1 after the trip)
Park Permits and Liability Insurance
Group safety equipment (satellite phone, ropes, rescue kit, high altitude 1st aid kit, GPS, maps)
Alternative plan based on current conditions

Not included in price:

Lunch, alcohol & snacks
Personal ski and technical equipment
Air travel to/from Anchorage
Any additional costs related to itinerary changes
Trip cancellation insurance, adventure travel/rescue insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Alpine Ski-touring or Telemark gear? Which should you use?

If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier should you use Telemark gear.

Mount Logan provide a fantastic mountain travel experience. The skis become a traveling medium in the greater goal of getting from A to B. Alpine touring makes for fast and efficient travel hence contributing to a safer and more successful experience.

Home / Mountaineering / Alpine Rock / Rock Climbing /

Gimli Peak-South ridge, III 5.10a

This magnificent Alpine rock climb ranks with the best of its class anywhere in the world...

Rated III 5.10a, the South ridge of Gimli peak in Valhalla provincial park, is one of the best of its class anywhere in the world. This captivating 8 pitch alpine rock climb is wildly exposed, strenuous but moderate. The climbing is varied and features steep cracks, grooves, chicken heads and fingery walls. For an easier Valhalla classic, we offer alternative routes on Midguard and Asguard Peaks. Join one of our Alpine guides and safely ascend this route in style and good company.

Summit Mountain Guides offers 1 to 2 day guided Gimli peak programs from mid June to late September. This route can be done in one long day by experienced climbers, most people will benefit and enjoy the overnight camp and a two day program and discover why Norse mythology is involved in the naming of this aesthetic peak.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

This is a 1 to 2 day Alpine Rock climbing program. The exact number of days will depend on participants needs, previous experience, weather and route conditions. The climb itself is a 1 day affair, the access and approach times make this route a very full day. Less experience climbers and people interested in a more relaxed adventure will enjoy the 2 day program. Below is a sample itinerary for both options:

1 Day Program

Pre-trip meeting evening before; 7:00 PM in town (1 hour)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Ascent Day

04:30 AM, meeting and drive

06:00 AM, at trail head, hike -in

07:30 AM, at base of Gimli, start climbing

Climb, climb, climb!

15:30 PM, at the top, walk off & hike-out

18:00 PM, back at the parking, drive-out

20:00 PM, back in Nelson for a late dinner

2 Day Program

Pre-trip meeting; 7:00 PM in town (1 hour)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waiver.

Review of planed itinerary and current conditions

Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 1: Rock Climbing and Hiking-in

08:00 AM, meeting a local rock climbing area

Review of specific rock climbing skills

Climb a few local classics

13:00 PM, drive to the Gimli trail head, hike -in

16:00 PM, establish camp near the route

18:00 PM, dinner & preparation for the next day

Day 2: Ascent Day

06:30 AM, breakfast, short hike-in to the route

07:30 AM, at base of Gimli, start climbing

Climb, climb, climb!

15:30 PM, at the top, walk off & hike-out

18:00 PM, back at the parking, drive-out

20:00 PM, back in Nelson for a late dinner

Prerequisites

On this guided program, you must be an intermediate to advanced climber. Previous varied climbing experiences, with or without a guide, and the ability to follow traditional crack climbs in the 5.10a range with a small pack is required. Good physical fitness is also a must as it will give us the ability to move safely and efficiently in the mountains. Skills and fitness will determine whether we climb in 1 or 2 days.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Gimli Peak is located in the Kootenay district of south-eastern British Columbia. It lies on the southern border of Valhalla provincial park, west of Slocan lake in the southern Selkirk mountains. The trail head is accessible by vehicle via the Bannock creek forest service road. It is a one and a half hour drive north west of Nelson or a three hour drive south of Revelstoke.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Valhalla Alpine Rock

Discover high quality alpine rock routes with an experienced guide in Valhalla Provincial Park...

Located in the heart of the southern Selkirk’s in south-eastern British Columbia, Valhalla Provincial Park is home to some of the finest alpine rock climbing in Western Canada. The Mulvey Group, near the southern end of the park, provides a fantastic collection of rugged granitic spires appealing to the alpine rock climber.

The sunny alpine walls and sharp rock ridges surrounding the headwaters of Mulvey creek offer numerous high quality alpine rock climbs for all ability levels. Many alpine classics include routes on Gimli , Asgard, Midguard, Wolf’s Ears, Dag or Neislhem, each of these impressive peaks part of Norse mythology. Enjoy a specific day route or join a 2 to 4 day guided Valhalla Alpine Rock program with an experienced local guide.

Summit Mountain Guides offer easy, moderate and advanced guided alpine rock climbing programs in this area. Some of the popular peaks and routes guided in the Valhallas include:

The South ridge of Gimli peak (Grade III, 5.10a) A true classic, click here for more info
West ridge of Asgard peak (Grade III, 5.5)
Full West ridge of Gladsheim peak (Grade III, 5.6)
South face of Gladsheim peak (Grade IV 5.10d)

For a complete, list along with difficulty information, route description and trip length, click on Location below. Please contact us if you are interested in a specific route or a custom trip.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We offer 1 to 4 day Valhalla Alpine rock climbing programs. The length and itinerary of this program is flexible and depends on many factors including: your interests, needs and previous climbing experience.

The length of a chosen route(s) , how accessible it is and its difficulty will determine the the number of days for the program. We will typically have a pre-trip meeting the evening before your trip start and try to be back in town at a resonable time on the last day of the program.

Below is sample intinerary for a 4 day program (3 field days).

Day 1, Pre-trip meeting; 7:00 PM in town (1 hour)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waivers.
Review of planed itinerary and current conditions
Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 2, Drive-in, Hike-in and Climb

04:30 AM, meeting and drive
06:00 AM, at trail head, hike -in
07:30 AM, at camp location, drop overnight gear
08:00 AM, hike to base of climb with a small day pack!
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to camp
16:30 PM, Back in camp for a great dinner and cozy night in the mountains

Day 3, Full Climbing day

06:30 AM, breakfast, hike-in to another classic alpine rock route
07:30 AM, start climbing
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to camp
16:30 PM, Back in camp for another great dinner and cozy night in the mountains

Day 4, Last climb and hike-out

06:30 AM, breakfast, hike-in to another classic alpine rock route
07:30 AM, start climbing
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike-out
18:00 PM, back at the parking, drive-out
20:00 PM, back in Nelson for a late dinner

Prerequisites

On this guided alpine rock program, prior rock climbing experience is required. Good physical fitness is also a must as it will give us the ability to move safely and efficiently in the mountains.

The difficulty of the routes we attempt will be based on your personal goals, interests and previous climbing experience. Previous traditional and crack climbing experience, with or without a guide and the ability to climb with a small pack is required.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Valhalla Provincial Park is located in the Kootenay district of South-Eastern British Columbia. The granite rock spires surrounding Mulvey basin lie on the southern border of Valhalla Provincial Park, west of Slocan Lake in the southern Selkirk Mountains. The trail head is accessible by vehicle via the Bannock creek forest service road. It is a one and a half hour drive north west of Nelson or a three hour drive south of Revelstoke.

Here is a list of our favorite Valhalla peaks

Gimli peak, 2760m / 9055’
Nisleheim peak, 2580m / 8465’
Midgard peak, 2790m / 9150’
Asgard peak, 2790m / 9150’
Gladsheim peak, 2820m / 9250’
West Wolf’s Ear, 2670m / 8760’
East Wolf’s Ear, 2640m / 8660’
Mount Dag, 2700m / 8860’
Drinnon peak, 2610m / 8565’
Devil’s Dome, 2790m / 9150’
Lucifer peak, 2760m / 9055’

Below are our favorite Valhalla alpine rock routes grouped by difficulty

The difficulty and grade of a route is subjective. Whether a route is easy, moderate or hard depends on many factors. To create our favorites list we have considered these factors: length of the route, technical difficulty, how sustain a route is and how long of a day it takes to complete it. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Easy Alpine Rock Routes

North East ridge of Gimli (Grade III, 5.6)
West ridge of Asgard (Grade III, 5.5)
East ridge of East Wolf’s Ear (Grade II, 5.2)
Regular West ridge of West Wolf’s Ear (Grade II, 5.5)
West ridge traverse of Dag (Grade III, 5.2)

Moderate Alpine Rock Routes

South ridge of Gimli (Grade III, 5.10a) A true classic, click here for more info
North West ridge of Gimli (Grade III, 5.9)
South face of Asgard (Grade IV, 5.9)
North ridge of Asgard (Grade III, 5.7)
Full West ridge of Gladsheim (Grade III, 5.6)
Full West ridge of West Wolf’s Ear (Grade III, 5.8)
South East ridge of Devil’s Dome (Grade III, 5.6)
South face of Devil’s Dome (Grade III, 5.9)

Advanced Alpine Rock Routes

South face of Gladsheim “The White Dihedral” (Grade IV 5.10d)
North ridge bypass on Gladsheim (Grade IV 5.10b) click here for more info
The Gift on the South face of West Wolf’s Ear (Grade III, 5.11d or 5.11a A1) click here for more info
North face of Dag “Riding Skinfaxi” (Grade VI, 5.11c) a serious big wall climb

Many other easy, moderate and advanced options exist, join our Valhalla Alpine Rock program and find out more…

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this guided alpine rock program, prior rock climbing experience is required. Good physical fitness is also a must as it will give us the ability to move safely and efficiently in the mountains. The difficulty of the routes we attempt will be based on your personal goals, interests and previous climbing experience. Previous traditional and crack climbing experience, with or without a guide and the ability to climb with a small pack is required.

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Bugaboo Alpine Rock

The Bugaboos are a magical alpine playground of inspiring glaciers, pristine wilderness and towering granite spires...

The Bugaboos of Western Canada are one of the world’s greatest alpine rock climbing centers. Located in the Purcell mountains of South-Eastern British Columbia they are cluster of high and shear granite spires situated inside the pristine Bugaboo Provincial Park. Join our 3 to 5 day guided program and discover some of the best traditional alpine rock climbing in Canada.

The Bugaboos offer a challenge for climbers of all ability on sound granite. The various summits of the Bugaboos including; the Crescent Spires, Bugaboo Spire, Snowpatch Spire, the Howsers, Pigeon Spire and the Pigeon Feathers, boast fine moderate mountaineering objectives, superb scrambles and fantastic alpine rock climbs.

Some of the popular peaks and classic routes we recommend in the Bugaboos include:

The Northeast ridge of Bugaboo Spire (Grade IV, 5.8)
West ridge of Pigeon Spire (Grade II, 5.4)
Surf’s Up on Snowpatch Spire (Grade IV, 5.9)
The Beckey-Chouinard on the South Howser Tower (Grade V, 5.10)

For a complete, list along with difficulty information, route description and trip length, click on Location below. Please contact us if you are interested in a specific route or a custom trip.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We offer 3 to 5 day Bugaboo Alpine rock climbing programs. The length and itinerary of this program is flexible and depends on many factors including: your interests, needs and previous climbing experience.

The length of a chosen route(s) its difficulty will determine the the number of days for the program. We will typically have a pre-trip meeting the evening before your trip start and try to be back in town at a reasonable time on the last day of the program.

Below is sample itinerary for a 3 day program

Pre-trip meeting; 7:00 PM in Golden (1 hour)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waivers.
Review of planed itinerary and current conditions
Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 1, Drive-in, Hike-in and Climb

04:30 AM, meeting and drive
06:30 AM, at trail head, hike -in
10:30 AM, at camp location, drop overnight gear
hike to base of climb with a small day pack!
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to camp
16:30 PM, Back in camp for a great dinner and cozy night in the mountains

Day 2, Full Climbing day

05:00 AM, breakfast, hike-in to another classic alpine rock route
07:30 AM, start climbing
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to camp
16:30 PM, Back in camp for another great dinner and cozy night in the mountains

Day 3, Last climb and hike-out

05:00 AM, breakfast, hike-in to another classic alpine rock route
07:30 AM, start climbing
Climb, climb, climb!
14:30 PM, top out, walk off & head back to camp
16:00 PM, gather overnight gear from camp & hike out
18:00 PM, back at the parking, drive-out
20:00 PM, back in Golden for a late dinner

Prerequisites

The difficulty of the routes we attempt will be based on your personal goals, interests and previous climbing experience.

Previous traditional and crack climbing experience, with or without a guide and the ability to climb with a small pack is required.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Bugaboo Provincial Park is located in the Purcell mountains of South-Eastern British Columbia. The trail head is about 50km West of Brisco BC along the Bugaboo creek forest service gravel road. Brisco is an hour drive south of Golden BC or one and a half hours drive north of Cranbrook BC along highway 95. The nearest international airport is in Calgary, Alberta. From Calgary it is roughly a three and a half hour drive West along highway 1, 93 and 95, via Banff and Radium to Brisco BC.

Here is a list of our favorite Bugaboo peaks

Bugaboo Spire, 3200m / 10500’
Pigeon Spire, 3156m / 10350’
Snowpatch Spire, 3084m / 10100’
Howser Spires, 3412m / 11200’
Crescent Towers, 2830m / 9300’
Brenta Spire, 2958m / 9700’
Northpost Spire, 2919m / 9650’
Eastpost Spire, 2728m / 9000’
Pigeon Feathers, 2990m / 9800’
Marmolata Peak, 3019m / 9900’
Hounds Tooth, 2830m / 9300’
Anniversary Peak, 2947m / 9700’

Below are our favorite Bugaboo alpine routes grouped by difficulty

Easy Alpine Routes

West Ridge of Pigeon Spire (Grade II, 5.4)
Kain Route on Bugaboo Spire (Grade III, 5.6)
East Ridge of Marmolata (Grade II, 5.6)
Southeast Ridge of Eastpost Spire (Grade II, 5.6)
Lion’s Way on Crescent Tower (Grade II, 5.6)
Southeast Spur of Brenta Spire (Grade II, 5.6)
Northwest Face of Hounds Tooth (Grade II, 3rd class)
South Ridge of Brenta Spire (Grade II, 4th class)
Northeast Ridge of Eastpost Spire (Grade I, 4th class)
Pigeon Feather traverse (Grade II, 4th class)
Glacier Route on Anniversary Peak (Grade II, 3rd class)

Moderate Alpine Routes

Northeast ridge of Bugaboo Spire (Grade IV, 5.8)
Surf’s Up on Snowpatch Spire (Grade IV, 5.9)
Snowpatch Route on Snowpatch Spire (Grade IV, 5.8)
Integral North ridge on North Howser Tower (Grade IV, 5.4)
Buckingham Route via “The Enjoyable Way” on Snowpatch Spire (Grade III, 5.8)
Wildflower on Snowpatch Spire (Grade III, 5.9)
Tiger’s Tail on Crescent Tower (Grade II, 5.9)
Ears Between on Crescent Tower (Grade II, 5.7)
Lambrice Tour on Pigeon Spire (Grade II, 5.8)

Advanced Alpine Routes

The Beckey-Chouinard on the South Howser Tower (Grade V, 5.10)
Sunshine Crack on Snowpatch Spire (Grade IV, 5.11a)
McTech Arête on Crescent Spire (Grade II, 5.10-)
Paddle Flake on Crescent Spire (Grade II, 5.10)
Thatcher Cracker on Crescent Tower (Grade II, 5.10)
Furry Pink Arête on Snowpatch Spire (Grade IV, 5.10+)
Flamingo Fling on Snowpatch Spire (Grade IV, 5.10-)
Tom Egan Memorial Route on Snowpatch Spire (Grade V, 5.10 A3)
Wingtip Arête on Pigeon Spire (Grade V, 5.10-)
Cooper-Kor on the East Face of Pigeon Spire (Grade IV, 5.10)
All Along the Watchtower on the North Howser Tower (Grade VI, 5.11 A1)

Many other easy, moderate and advanced route options exist, contact us for more information. Whether a route is easy, moderate or hard is subjective and depends on many factors. To create our favorites list we have considered these factors: length of the route, technical difficulty, how sustain a route is and how long of a day it takes to complete it.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide and/or ACMG Alpine Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this guided alpine rock program, prior rock climbing and mountaineering experience is required. Good physical fitness is also a must as it will give us the ability to move safely and efficiently in the mountains. The difficulty of the routes we attempt will be based on your personal goals, interests and previous climbing experience. Previous traditional and crack climbing experience, with or without a guide and the ability to climb with a small pack is required.

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Chamonix Alpine

The birthplace of Mountaineering and deservedly the worlds greatest alpine playground...

The Chamonix valley is dominated by the majestic dome of Mont Blanc. It is surrounded by hundreds of easily accessible pointy granite spires providing world renowned rock, ice and mixed alpine routes. The village is charming and offers incredible vistas, cuisine along with a vibrant mountain culture.

Like most mountaineering in the Alps, climbing in Chamonix provides the luxury of easy access routes with lighter packs and overnight programs based from catered mountain huts. Whether you are interested in an easy alpine route for the day or seek a multi-day adventure from a hut, let us design a unique trip to meet your climbing goals and background.

There are more than a lifetime worth of route options & objectives in the Mont Blanc Massif. Our custom alpine programs in Chamonix range from 2-6 days. Some of the popular peaks and routes we recommend include:

Mont Blanc: The Goûter Ridge & Les Trois Monts (both Grade PD)
Dent du Géant: The South West Face (Grade AD 5.9)
Grand Capucin: Swiss Route (Grade TD+ 5.10)
Aiguille du Midi: Cosmiques Arête (Grade PD+ 5.6) & South Face (Grade AD 5.10a)
Les Courtes: The Traverse (Grade PD+) & North Face (Grade TD- 75deg)
Mont Blanc du Tacul: Chèré Couloir (Grade AD- WI4-)
Aiguille d’Argentiere: La Flèche Rousse (Grade AD 5.4)
Aiguilles Dorées: The Traverse (Grade AD+ 5.5)
l’Index: South Ridge (Grade F 5.6)

For a complete, list along with difficulty information, route description and trip length, click on Location below. Please contact us if you are interested in a specific route or a custom trip.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We offer 2 to 6 day Chamonix Alpine climbing programs. The length and itinerary of this program is flexible and depends on many factors including: your interests, needs and previous climbing experience.

The difficulty and length of a chosen route(s) will often determine the the number of days on this program. Chamonix benefits from an efficient lifts network facilitating access to hundreds of classic alpine climbs. Due to the ease of access, it is possible to do many of the routes in one day and be based out of town. Also, there are many conveniently located mountain huts in the Mont Blanc Massif to base out of for the longer routes.

Below is sample itinerary for a 3 day program

Pre-trip meeting; 17:30 PM in Chamonix (1 hour)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waivers.
Review of planed itinerary and current conditions
Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 1, First Tram, Hike-in and Climb

06:00 AM, meeting at lift station & head on up
06:30 AM, Gear up for glacier travel & hike-in to climb
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to lift station
16:30 PM, Back in Chamonix for a great dinner

Day 2, Full Climbing day & overnight at mountain hut

06:00 AM, meeting at lift station & head on up
06:30 AM, Gear up for glacier travel & hike-in to climb
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to a mountain hut
16:30 PM, Back at the hut for a civilized night in the mountain

Day 3, Last climb & tram back to Chamonix

05:00 AM, breakfast, hike-in to another classic alpine route
07:30 AM, start climbing
Climb, climb, climb!
16:30 PM, top out, walk off & head back to lift station
20:00 PM, back in Chamonix for a well deserved shower & dinner

Prerequisites

Equipment

Weather

Location

Located in the Western Alps, the village of Chamonix is deeply nestled near the headwaters of the Arve river in Eastern France. It is very close to the border with both Switzerland and Italy. It is best accessed from the Geneva international airport, 70 km away, via public or private transfers. Private transfers take about 1 hour and can be arranged through various companies, see FAQ below for details. Public transfers by train or bus are also possible. They are slightly more affordable however in the case of the train, connections are not ideal and it takes upwards of 2.5 hours to reach Chamonix. The bus is quicker, more direct and just as economical as the train.

Here is a list of our favorite Chamonix peaks

Mont Blanc, 4808m / 15775’
Mont Maudit, 4465m / 14650’
Mont Blanc du Tacul, 4248m / 13940’
Aiguille du Midi, 3842m / 12600’
Aiguille du Plan, 3673m / 12050’
Aiguille des Grands Chamoz, 3445m / 11302’
Grandes Jorasses, 4208m / 13805’
Dent du Géant, 4013m / 13170’
Aiguille d’Entrèves, 3600m / 11810’
La Tour Ronde, 3800m / 12470’
Aiguille du Chardonnet, 3824m / 12545’
Aiguille d’Argentière, 3900m / 12795’
Aiguilles Dorées, 3519m / 11545’
Aiguille du Tour, 3544m / 11630’
Mont Dolent, 3823m / 12540’
Les Courtes, 3856m / 12650’
Les Droites, 3944m / 12940’
Aiguille Verte, 4122m / 13520’
Le Grand Dru, 3754m / 12316’
Aiguille du Moine, 3412m / 11200’

Below are our favorite Chamonix alpine routes grouped by difficulty

Easy Alpine Routes

l’Index: South Ridge (Grade F 5.6)
Aiguille du Midi: Cosmiques Arête (Grade PD+ 5.6)

Moderate Alpine Routes

Mont Blanc: The Goûter Ridge & Les Trois Monts (both Grade PD)

Advanced Alpine Routes

Grand Capucin: Swiss Route (Grade TD+ 5.10)
Dent du Géant: The South West Face (Grade AD 5.9)

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
10 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Emergency response plan

FAQ

Getting to Chamonix?

Chamonix is located in the Alps of eastern France. It is very close to the border with both Switzerland and Italy. It is best accessed from the Geneva international airport, 70 km away, via public or private transfers. Private transfers take about 1 hour and can be arranged through these companies:

Public transfers by train or bus are also possible. They are slightly more affordable however in the case of the train, connections are not ideal and it takes upwards of 2.5 hours to reach Chamonix.

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

There are a number of outdoor stores in Chamonix that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear.

Kokanee Glacier Alpine

Enjoy high alpine routes with an experienced local mountain guide in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park...

Located an hour from Nelson in the southern Selkirk’s, Kokanee Provincial Park has unique mountaineering objectives for beginner to advanced climbers. The west side of the park offers some fantastic alpine ridges with glacier access.

The alpine climbs by day trip or multi-day adventure from a hut or chalet suite all ability levels. Alpine objectives on the Battleship, Esmeralda Peak, Grays Peak, Pyramid and Mt. Kitchner. Enjoy a specific day route or join a 2 to 4 day guided Kokanee Alpine Rock program with an experienced local guide. Multi-day programs can be based from the comfortable Kokanee Glacier Chalet, Silverspray Cabin or Woodbury Hut.

Summit Mountain Guides offer easy, moderate and advanced guided alpine rock climbing programs in this area. Some of the popular peaks and routes guided in Kokanee Provincial Park include:

Alpine Climbing Day Trips from Nelson

Grays Peak, SW Ridge (Grade III, 5.4)
Esmeralda Peak, SW Ridge (Grade II, 5.6)

Alpine Program from Kokanee Glacier Chalet

Battle Ship Traverse (Grade I)

Pyramid Mt, NE Ridge (Grade I, 5.6)

Mt Kitchener, W Ridge (Grade I, 5.3)

Esmeralda Peak, SW Ridge (Grade II, 5.6)

Climbing from Silverspray & Woodbury Cabins

Cabin Peak, E Ridge (4th class)

Cabin Peak, Main Wall (Rock Routes, 10+)

Sunrise Mtn

Glacier View Peak

Moonlight Peak

For a taste of Kokanee Alpine Climbs, visit Gray’s Peak blog. Please contact us if you are interested in a specific route or a custom trip.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We offer 1 to 4 day Kokanee Glacier Alpine rock climbing programs. The length and itinerary of this program is flexible and depends on many factors including: your interests, needs and previous climbing experience.

Below is sample intinerary for a 4 day program (3 field days).

Day 1, Pre-trip meeting; 7:00 PM in town (1 hour)

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda, waivers.
Review of planed itinerary and current conditions
Issue of required gear and session on packing strategy

Day 2, Drive-in, Hike-in and Climb

04:30 AM, meeting and drive
06:00 AM, at trail head, hike -in
07:30 AM, at camp location, drop overnight gear
08:00 AM, hike to base of climb with a small day pack!
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to camp
16:30 PM, Back in camp for a great dinner and cozy night in the mountains

Day 3, Full Climbing day

06:30 AM, breakfast, hike-in to another classic alpine rock route
07:30 AM, start climbing
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike back to camp
16:30 PM, Back in camp for another great dinner and cozy night in the mountains

Day 4, Last climb and hike-out

06:30 AM, breakfast, hike-in to another classic alpine rock route
07:30 AM, start climbing
Climb, climb, climb!
15:30 PM, top out, walk off & hike-out
18:00 PM, back at the parking, drive-out
20:00 PM, back in Nelson for a late dinner

Prerequisites

On this guided alpine rock program, prior some rock climbing experience is an asset. Good physical fitness is also a must as it will give us the ability to move safely and efficiently in the mountains. The ability to climb with a small pack is required.

The difficulty of the routes we attempt will be based on your personal goals, interests and previous climbing experience.

Equipment

Clic here for the Equipment List

Weather

Location

Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park is located in the Kootenay district of South-Eastern British Columbia. The rock ridges near the glaicer lie on the SE side of Valhalla Provincial Park, north of Nelson in the southern Selkirk Mountains. The trail head is accessible by vehicle via a forest service road. It is a 45 minute drive north east of Nelson or a four hour drive south of Revelstoke.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this guided alpine rock program, prior rock climbing experience is useful. Good physical fitness is also a must as it will give us the ability to move safely and efficiently in the mountains. The difficulty of the routes we attempt will be based on your personal goals, interests and previous climbing experience. Previous traditional and crack climbing experience, with or without a guide and the ability to climb with a small pack is required for the more challenging routes.

Is it safe?

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Ice Climbing / Courses / Ice Climbing Courses /

Intro to Ice Climbing

Safely enter the enticing world of frozen waterfall ice climbing...

The focus of the intro course is to give you the skills and confidence with modern ice climbing technique on vertical ice and mixed terrain.

on this 2 to 3 day intro program, we will also introduce and review basic movement skills and safety, belaying and rope management while climbing lots of ice.

Take your adventure to the next level and invest a 3rd day climbing a classic multi-pitch ice route in the Canadian Rockies. This will give you the opportunity to apply your newly learned skills and climb with a professional ice guide.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Here is a sample itinerary for the Intro to Ice Climbing course:

Day 1: 8:30 am meeting at climbing area TBA. Welcome, introduction, goals and agenda for the day/course. Walk-in to the climbing site. Introduction to basic ice climbing crag safety. Review of Knots and harnesses. Adjust crampons and check gear. Crampon school with emphasis on the “French technique”. Discussion of safety procedures with review of basic belaying methods & belay calls. Ice “bouldering” - how to use ‘crampons’ in a safe environment just a few feet off the ground - essential for confidence! Top roped ice climbing. Debrief and wrap-up by 4:00pm
Day 2: 8:30 am meeting at climbing area TBA. Bouldering warm up. Introduction to steep ice climbing techniques. Lots of climbing with coaching on steeper ice. You will be surprised at what you can climb when using modern ice tools and proper body positioning. Introduction to use of ice screws and other protection methods. Practice “seconding” which involves removing gear placed by the “lead” climber. Debrief and wrap-up by 4:00pm
Day 3: 3rd day multi-pitch option TBA. Possible early start for multi-pitch venue. Climb a classic Rockies multi-pitch frozen waterfall. Continue developing your newly learned skill. Improve your skill with personalized coaching. Debrief and wrap-up by 4:00pm

Prerequisites

This is a beginner to intermediate program. No prior ice climbing experience is required. You will benefit from previous outdoor and/or indoor rock climbing experience. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background, we will then find the best possible venue for you.

Equipment

Weather

The Rocky Mountain weather is generally cold and dry. In winter you expect temperatures to be from -25C to –10C in the day while in spring daily temperatures could rise to zero. West Kootenay weather can vary drastically. In winter you expect temperatures to be from -15C to –5C in the day while in spring daily temperatures could rise well above zero. Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change within the day.

Location

Most of our Ice Climbing courses are based in the Canadian Rockies. When the conditions allow, we sometime run courses in the Kootenay regions of South Eastern British Columbia. Here are a few towns where we run this course from; Nelson, Cranbrook, Invemere, Golden, Lake Louise, Banff & Canmore. Suitable accommodation can be found in all these locations.

Depending on where the participants are coming from, it may be possible to car pool to the course location. This is a great way to conserve energy and minimize transportation costs.

The instructors will be meeting with participants the evening before the course starts for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or Alpine guide service
All the technical climbing equipment
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Transportation
Accommodation
Personal ice climbing equipment
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent or buy Ice Climbing equipment?

Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of Ice Climbing equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson, Golden, Lake Louise, Banff & Canmore that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Nelson:

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Golden:

180 Mountain Sports: (250) 344-4699 www.180golden.com
Selkirk Source for Sports: (250) 344-2966

Lake Louise:

Wilson Mountain Sports: (866) 929-3636 www.lakelouisewilsons.com

Banff:

Mountain Magic Equipment: (403) 762-2591 www.mountainmagic.com
Monod Sports: (403) 762-4571 www.monodsports.com

Canmore:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (403) 678-5610 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Courses / Backcountry Ski Touring /

Intro to Backcountry Ski Touring

Discover the rewards of safely earning your turns...

This comprehensive course is an excellent introduction to backcountry ski touring. Participants will learn a great deal about trip preparation, gear use, touring skills and hazard awareness required for safer and enjoyable ski touring.

The main objective of this course is to give participants basic tools and confidence to safely get started with backcountry ski touring. It is a great opportunity to discover some of the local Kootenay Backcountry and enjoy some fine powder skiing while learning from a seasoned ski guide.

To further increase you knowledge and confidence, the next logical step is our Avalanche Skills Training courses (AST 1 & 2)

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day 1: Evening classroom session. We will meet at 19:00pm for a 2 hour session covering introductions, revised agenda, last minute gear check, sign a waiver and plan for the next few days.
Day 2: Field Day. We will meet a 8:00am and drive up to ski touring destinations (either skin up from the car or take the ski resort lift)
Day 3: Optional 2nd Field Day. We will also meet a 8:00am and drive up to ski touring destinations (either skin up from the car or take the ski resort lift)

Here are some of the areas we may visit on this course:

Whitewater Backcountry

The backcountry near Whitewater ski resort is stunning, deep and accessible. There are many options to explore, using lifts or road access, including Ymir Peak, Five mile basin and Evening ridge.

Kootenay Pass

At 1780m, perched between the snowy little towns of Salmo and Creston, Kootenay Pass is the highest road accessible mountain pass in British Columbia. Here we will ski some of the best tree skiing in the southern Selkirks along with fantastic sub-alpine ridges boasting a great variety of open terrain. This destination is a must to all visiting ski tourers.

Mount Brennan or London Ridge

The Kaslo-New Denver highway gives quick access to some of the bigger alpine ski tours in the area. Both Mt Brennan and London Ridge offer vast and exposed alpine terrain, fantastically long ski descents and some of the most impressive local mountain scenery. To optimize your experience, these tours are best done in the Spring when the days longer, the snowpack deeper and temperatures warmer.

Rossland and Red Mountain area

The Rossland area offers fantastic lift and road access backcountry powder ski touring. It is infamous for outstanding tree skiing along with a consistently deep snowpack. The area offers a variety of possible tours, ridges and peaks for the keen ski tourer visiting the area.

Prerequisites

Participants must be intermediate to advance ski resort skiers. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide and/or ACMG Ski Guides service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Transportation or lift fee if applicable
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Favorite Hiking Trails /

Advanced Hikes & Treks

Glacier Keyhole, MacBeth Icefield, Mulvey Basin, Whitewater Pass, Silverspray & Woodbury Basin...

Join one of these remote and aesthetic advanced guided hikes in the West Kootenays. Walk on ridges or in alpine meadows, while soaking in unending mountain views. Discover the signs of wildlife and unique flowers that exist in the high alpine zone.

Experience the scent, sounds and vistas of high elevation hikes on an established but may at times be very rugged trail. Enjoy a full day in the high alpine. Discover how well your body adapts to walking on or off trail. Programs last from 8-10 hours depending on location.

Mac Beth Ice field

Enjoy the magnificence of being in the sounds and sights of where waterfalls, glacier and rock meet. Your walk will take you through lush meadows, old forests and challenge your muscles to ascend a series of stairs to bring to a gloriously wild alpine basin.

Your physical exertion is worth the views of Horseshoe Glacier, Mac Beth Glacier and Duncan Lake far below.

15.6 km (9.7 mi.) round trip

1082 m (3550 ft.) elevation gain

Trail head northeast of Kaslo

Silver Spray and Woodbury Drainage

Ascend into the alpine and the heart of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. For experienced hikers, consider walking up the steep Silver Spray Cabin trail and be rewarded with stunning alpine views in delicate meadows and recent burn subalpine ecosystem.

Soak in the colour of Kootenay Lake, the diverse ecology of Woodbury drainage and the peaks of the Purcells in the east.

12.9 km (8 mi) round trip

995 m (3265 ft.) elevation gain

Trailhead between Nelson and Kaslo

Glacier Keyhole

If you are comfortable with heights and enjoy scrambling on boulders, consider pushing your fitness level s you hike up to the keyhole, a small notch that brings you to the edge of Kokanee Glacier.

Take in the views of Sawtooth ridge and the northern Selkirks from an easy ridge next to the ice.

12.9 km (8 mi.) round trip

995 m (3265 ft.) elevation gain

Trailhead very close to Nelson

Whitewater Pass

Explore into grizzly bear terrain with your guide. From your side of the valley look for clues for various four legged animals. Notice the colours of lichen on the rock walls change as you ascent into the subalpine and watch for red tailed hawks in the wide sky above.

For fit hikers, continue walking by boulder fields and towards a pass of Whitewater Mtn, explore the snow that can rest there in pockets throughout the summer and experience the glorious views of Goat Range Provincial Park.

13.5 km (8.4 mi.) round trip

893 m (2930 ft.) elevation gain

Trailhead between Kalso and New Denver

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We will choose an area that best meets your experience and interest. Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Meet your guide between 7-8am am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive up to hiking trail head, return time based on distance from Nelson or Kaslo.

Prerequisites

Programs are intermediate (very fit) to advanced. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Favorite Hiking Trails /

Moderate Hikes

Explore Monica Meadows, Jumbo Pass, Gimli Peak, Drinnon Pass, Alps Alturus...

Join one of these stunning moderate guided hikes found in the West Kootenays. Take in the pristine and rugged mountain scenery on unique trails of the West Kootenays, B.C.

Depending on the location and season, you will learn the unique stories linking plant to animal and elevation to critter. Enjoy lasting alpine impressions at a moderate pace, hike for 4-6 hours. Ascend slowly and realize how easy it is to summit, explore ridges and the flora of alpine meadows.

The Magic of Monica Meadows

Some people would consider a visit to Monica the highlight of their journey. The road into Glacier Creek area itself is an adventure, winding along a rapid river and affording views of the Horseshoe and Macbeth Glaciers. The trail ascends through a sub alpine forest, landing you in incredible paintbrush landscape of flowers, particularly mid-summer.

Wander above tree line, soaking in the steep peaks around you or rest on rock outcrop taking panoramic photos to later tape to your fridge.

8 km (5.1 mi.) round trip

579 m (1900 ft.) elevation gain

We also offer climbing programs in this scenic area.

Trail head is northeast of Kaslo, rough road conditions

Alpine Impressions at Jumbo Pass

Located in the heart of the Purcell Mountains, Jumbo pass presents some impressive views of glaciers, moraines and peaks in a panoramic direction. The trail contours through a beautiful mountain hemlock forest and opens up into small natural clearings full of wildflowers as you ascend into the alpine, where mountain goats are tucked away on high vertical ridges above you.

Walk into this scenic wilderness and you’ll understand why hundreds of people are opposed to development proposed here.

8.4 km (5.2 mi) round trip

686 m (2250 ft) elevation gain

Trail head is northeast of Kaslo

Gimli Peak and the Valhalla Guardians

This is a hike you definitely don’t want to miss! Located in the Valhalla Mountains, the stunning rock of Gimli, Asguard, Daag and a number of other impressive summits greet you as you ascend the into the alpine. The trail wanders on the spine of easy shoulder, working its way through avalanches paths.

The habitat is prime for wildlife, including grizzly and black bear as well as an array of forest and high alpine flowers.

9.7 km (6 mi) round trip

765 m (2510 ft) elevation gain

We also offer heli-hiking and classic alpine programs in this scenic area.

Trail head between Nelson and New Denver

Drinnon Pass and Gwilliam Lake

The trail leads you through mature forest into the picturesque sub-alpine terrain of Valhalla Provincial Park. At Drinnon pass you can scramble up the shoulder of Gregorio Peak and listen to the shrill call of pikas or continue walking to the aesthetic broad basin of Gwilliam Lake.

Enjoy walking by rugged rockoutcrops and discover the variety of plants that seek a living in the alpine.

11.6 km (7.2 mi.) round trip

701 m (2300 ft.) elevation gain

Trail head between Nelson and New Denver

Alps Alturus

Striking views, alpine meadows, dramatic basins with a perfect lake to soak your feet in are all on the menu at Alps Alturus. You’ll share the stunning views with the grizzlies, pikas and marmots that live there.

The ascent is surprisingly easy as a forestry service road brings your vehicle to 1762m.

12.9 km (8 mi.) round trip

995 m (3265 ft.) elevation gain

Trail head between New Denver and Nakusp

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We will choose an area that best meets your experience and interest. Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Meet your guide between 7-8am am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive up to hiking trail head, return time based on distance from Nelson or Kaslo.

Prerequisites

Programs are for hikers who have some previous hiking experience or fitness that would allow for 4-6 hours of hiking. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Favorite Hiking Trails /

Easy Walks

Explore Fry Creek Canyon, Idaho Peak Lookout, Pilot Bay Penisual, Cedar Grove Trail...

Join one of these wonderful easy guided walks in the West Kootenays. Ideal for kids, families or those not familiar with hiking. Walk with the timing that suits your body.

Enjoy the spaciousness of spectular mountain views or walk into the depth of an old growth forest. Find your own pace, walk your speed and appreciate the ease of trail walking.

Idaho Peak Lookout

This scenic trail is one of the most popular walks and rightly so, as easy vehicle access brings you right into the alpine. The famous wildflower meadows of Idaho Peak are captured in many postcards and visitor albums. Catch its peak in mid-July to mid-August as you wander on an easy trail that’s perfect for everyone in the family.

The walking ridge affords you stunning views of the Selkirk Mountains and Slocan Lake.

2.8 km (1.7 mi) round trip

146 m (480 ft) elevation gain

Trail head between New Denver and Kaslo

Trip into an Old Growth Forest

A majestic forest area, come discover the lush plants that live in the cool cedar ecosystem. Trail head is very close to Nelson. Cedar Grove trail is a stunning forest with a dramatic grove of old cedar and hemlock trees, wander through avalanche terrain and along the gurgling river of Kokanee.

Wander at a leisurely pace on the well established trail.

2 km (1.2 mi) round trip

122 m (400 ft) elevation gain

Trailhead close to Nelson

Day Trips into Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park

A unique protected area with trail heads close to Nelson. Walk up to Kokanee Lake by wandering through wildflower meadows after a gentle ascent through a lush forest.

Listen for red breasted nutches in the forest, pika’s or watch marmots along the higher elevation aspect of the trail.

8 km (4.4 mi) round trip

445m (1460 ft) elevation gain

trailhead near Nelson

Continue on to Kaslo, Keen and Garland Lakes and extend your day to a moderate hike into subalpine and alpine terrain. For fit hikers, continue your walk up to the newly built Trudeau cabin or arrange an unique overnight stay with your guide at this hut and do a multi-day adventure.

15 km (9.3 mi) round trip

436 m (1460 ft.) elevation gain

Trailhead close to Nelson

Fry Creek Canyon

Enjoy the splendor of wandering to the mouth of Fry Creek, where water cascades noisily down the river, carving out pools and sediments that make up the beautiful beach headland jutting out in the 110 km long Kootenay Lake.

Wander on a gentle historic trail that suspends above the canyon, enjoy the sound of gurgling water and discovering the tributaries that feed the river.

Pine Trees of Pilot Penisula

After a scenic ferry trip to Crawford Bay, enjoy a full day of gentle hiking on the east side of Kootenay Lake in the giant ponderosa pine trees and associated dry flora. Enjoy lunch on one of the serene pebble beaches or beautiful rock outcrops.

For fit hikers extend your day by walking to the Tipi Camp.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We will choose an area that best meets your experience and interest. Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Meet your guide between 7-8am am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive up to hiking trail head, return time based on distance from Nelson or Kaslo.

Prerequisites

Programs are beginner to intermediate. This program can be adapted to suit any level of fitness or ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Daily Guided Hikes /

Alpine Hiking

Discover the best trails and treks in the West Kootenays with a hiking guide providing you with exceptional mountain experiences...

Enjoy the hidden hiking gems of the backcountry near Nelson, Kalso and New Denver…

Daily guided hikes allow you to keep your pack light so you can explore for a full day the pristine mountains and discover the stories behind the unique alpine flora and fauna. Whether staying in a comfortable hotel, cabin or camping, you can easily access day programs or build a multi-day hiking program to suit your interests, experience and adventure!

For hikers seeking unique backcountry hikes, join a certified hiking guide for the day to walk in an alpine meadow, along aesthetic ridges or through the lush forests of the Selkirk, Monashee and Purcell Mountains. The West Kootenay region provides a diverse array established wilderness trails for beginner walkers to very experienced hikers.

Enjoy the pristine and rugged mountain scenery on trails in Valhalla Provincial Park, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Goat Range Provincial Park as well as unique places like MacBeth Icefield, Whitewater Canyon, Jumbo Pass, Idaho Peak, Mt. Gimli and many more! We offer a number of hikes, each different from one another, see our favorite hiking trails for inspiration.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Some of the trail options include Whitewater Pass in Goat Range Provincial Park, the Keyhole in Kokanee Galcier Provincial Park, Loki Peak in the Purcells, Mulvey Basin the Valhalla Provincial Park. View favorite trails page for more ideas. We will choose an area that best meets your experience and interest. Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Meet your guide between 7-8am am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive up to hiking trail head, return time based on distance from Nelson or Kaslo. Programs run between 8-10 hours.

Prerequisites

Programs are beginner to advanced. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Daily Guided Hikes /

Heli-drop Hiking

Ensure your hiking day is off the beaten path, get a quick lift into the alpine…

Enjoy walking on ridges or in alpine meadows, while soaking in unending mountain views. Discover the signs of wildlife and unique flowers that exist in the high alpine zone. A gourmet lunch is provided, enjoy while feasting on the Selkirk Mountain vista.

Skip the gruelling ascent from the valley and enjoy the scenic tour from Nelson and the excitement of being dropped off on an alpine ridge with your interpretive guide. Enjoy a full day adventure, with scenic views of the glaciated terrain of Kokanee Provincial Park.

Notice the seclusion of walking along an alpine ridge where you will be dropped off with your guide. For each of our heli-hiking adventures, you will walk with a professionally trained hiking guide and interpreter. While in the mountains, we teach you how to travel with low impact, while on flight pilots choose routes that avoid disturbing wildlife. Spend the rest of the day taking in majestic mountain views as you traverse through the alpine landscape. At the end of your hike, a pick up vehicle returns you to Nelson.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Choose one of our popular helicopter trips or create a unique multi-day tour around the West Kootenays. Be the first one to book a hike and you determine the level of challenge and location with the guidance from Summit Mountain Guide staff.

We offer day programs that drop off near the pristine wilderness of Valhalla Provincial Park, Kokanee Provincial Park, ridges near Baldface Lodge or peaks close to Whitewater Ski Resort. Our multi-day programs can involve one or two nights at a rustic hut or backcountry lodges like Valhalla Lodge, Mt. Carlye Lodge.

Prerequisites

Programs are intermediate to advanced. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide the evening before for meeting location.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Helicopter Transport
Fully certified ACMG guide service
Gourmet lunch and snacks
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal equipment
Transportation costs to meeting location
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Hiking & Trekking / Interpretive Walks /

Guided Ecology Hikes

Stretch your legs and your knowledge of the forest and mountain ecosystems, hike with a interpretive guide…

For those that are new to hiking or just warming up their calf muscles, an interpretive program may be perfect for you! Enjoy learning the mysteries behind the ecology and geology of the area.

Discover the stories behind the scenery; walk in the valley bottom, the depth of the interior forest or the high alpine. Choose an interpretive theme that peaks your interest; we will find the best trail to suit it.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

We will choose an area and interpretive theme that best meets your experience and interest. Full day alpine hikes leave town early and return by supper; our interpretive nature walks and easy strolls begin at 8am and return just after lunch. Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for trail options.

Meet your guide between 7-8am am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive up to hiking trail head, return time based on distance from Nelson or Kaslo.

Prerequisites

Programs are very easy to advanced. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability.

Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of walking or hiking full day program or half day tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified ACMG guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal equipment
Transportation costs
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Valhalla Traverse

Remote and committing, a rewarding ski traverse through Valhalla Provincial Park...

The Valhalla traverse is the ultimate West Kootenay traverse. This committing, 7 day, tent based ski traverse is a challenging trip with big ascents and descents over rugged and remote alpine terrain in the famous Selkirk mountain.

Our itinerary will take you through the heart of Valhalla Provincial Park from the majestic Mulvey Basin along the height of land all the way to Shannon creek near Hills, BC. It is available in March or April when the days are longer, warmer and the snowpack is more stable.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The weather and conditions will have a direct effect on our exact itinerary. This tour is particularly far from any escape routes and travels through steep exposed terrain. The conditions and weather have to be optimal for this committing trip to unfold as planed. Here is a sample itinerary:

Pre-Trip meeting; Participants will meet the guide(s) at 4pm in Nelson, BC before the trip starts. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following days. We will also sign a liability waiver and do an avalanche beacon exercise

Day 1; We will fly to the South boundary of Valhalla Provincial Park near Gimli Peak at 07:00 AM. Our first day will involved touring up to the Wolf’s Ears Col and skiing down into Mulvey Basin. We will establish camp 1 on a high shelf on the north side of the upper Mulvey Lakes
Day 2; We will travel in a Westerly direction over 3 mountain passes from Mulvey Basin to Gwillim lakes where we will establish our camp 2
Day 3; From Gwillim Lakes we will start traveling Northward over Lucifer col, Hird Lakes and Urd col to the Ice creek valley where we will pick up our food cache and set up camp 3
Day 4; After replenishing with fresh food we will continue North and East by ascending to a high col at the headwaters of Beatrice creek. From the col we will ski down to an alpine basin near Avis Lakes and establish camp 4
Day 5; From Avis Lakes, we will follow the top of a ridge system eastward and eventually ski to the North into the headwaters of Snow creek. A short climb Eastward to a col will lead to the headwaters of Nemo creek. A fun ski down to an alpine bench with unnamed lakes leads to camp 5
Day 6; A big ascent over Mount Meers leads to a fantastic run down to Wee Sandy Lake. A Northward traverse across the headwaters of Wee Sandy creek will take us to our last camp near an unnamed lake Northeast of Mount Niord
Day 7; On our last day we will ascend Northwest to the committing Nerthus-Skadi col. We will then travel Northward along a ridge at the headwaters of Wragge creek and eventually to the Vingolf col. From here we will enjoy our last descent down Shanon creek and eventually the small village of Hills
We will travel from Hills back to Nelson by vehicle just in time for a well earned shower and social evening

Prerequisites

This is an advance ski traverse. Prior overnight backcountry ski touring experience, preferably winter camping, and a minimum of advanced downhill skiing skills are required.

Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and options.

Equipment

Weather

This tour is particularly far from any escape routes and travels through steep exposed terrain. The conditions and weather have to be optimal for this committing trip to unfold as planed. The West Kootenay weather can vary drastically, specially in the Spring time. In Winter you can expect temperatures to be from -15C to –5C in the day while in Spring daily temperatures could rise well above zero. Overnight temperatures will often dip below 20C, even in the Spring. Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed and equipped for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change rapidly.

Location

This trip is located in Valhalla Provincial Park in the Southeastern British Columbia. You will be meeting with your guide the evening before the trip starts in Nelson for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following days. We will also sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide and /or ACMG Ski guide service
Transportation from/to Nelson at the start and end of the trip
Helicopter Access to our starting point
All Breakfasts and Dinners while on the trip
Tents and Cooking equipment for winter camping
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Individual Lunches
Personal ski touring & avalanche safety equipment
Trip cancellation, adventure travel, rescue & medical insurance. Contact us for more info

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of winter safety equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Rock Climbing / Courses / Rock Climbing Courses /

Introduction to Rock Climbing

Expose yourself to this rewarding activity! This entry level course is for families, groups and individuals wishing to safely learn the basics of outdoor rock climbing.

This 1 day course is designed for the beginner to intermediate climbers with no previous experience or perhaps some previous indoor climbing experience.

Topics covered include basic movement skills, equipment use, top rope climbing techniques and general crag safety. Our experienced instructors will customize your learning based on your background and recommend further training if interested.

This course is available throughout Western Canada, contact us with a desired location. The West Kootenay courses will take place at one of the many local outdoor rock climbing sites (Slocan Bluffs, Kinnard Bluffs, Koch creek Bluffs, Waterline, etc.). The area is blessed with a fine variety of outdoor rock climbing sites in pristine wilderness.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda

Issue of required gear

Intro to common rock climbing equipment

Movement skills intro and bouldering

Basic knots, belaying, rope handling and commands

Rock climbing with the safety of a rope

Integration of movement skills while roped climbing

Climb, climb, climb!

Practice belaying, rappelling and anchor construction if time allows

Course debrief and wrap-up by 5:00pm

Prerequisites

This introduction to outdoor rock climbing course is for beginner climbers and climbers with some prior indoor climbing experience. No previous climbing experience required. Join us and safely learn this exciting sport from our skilled instructors.

Equipment

Weather

Summer (July and August) tend to be more predictable but can be very hot. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from +20C to +30C. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.

Location

The group will be meeting with the instructor at 8:00 AM at a pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site in the West Kootenays. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
All technical equipment
harness, shoes, helmet, belay device
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this course, no previous climbing experience is required. This introduction to outdoor rock climbing course is for beginner climbers and climbers with some prior indoor climbing experience.

Is it safe?

For all of our climbing programs and courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guaranties you the highest safety standards in the industry. Rock climbing remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Can I rent some of the rock climbing equipment needed during the programs?

On this program we offer participants access to all the technical climbing and rescue gear at no extra charge. This includes; harnesses, helmets, rock shoes, belay device, carabineers and much more. Contact us for specific sizes and availability.

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Rock Climbing / Courses / Rock Climbing Courses /

Rock Climbing Essentials

Bring awareness to your growing skills, this program is designed for intermediate climbers with or without gym climbing experience...

The focus of this 2-day course is to convey basic safety standards for outdoor top roping climbing practices and to indroduce lead and multi-pitch climbing.

Skills covered include; general crag safety, anchor construction, rappelling, basic rope handling, movement skills, lead belaying and much more. Join this course and safely learn from a professional how to get started and established at your local crag.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day 1: 8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda.

Issue of required gear

Introduce/review movement on rock while bouldering

Introduce/review knots, basic belay systems and belay calls

Climbing, rappelling & lowering

Basic top roping anchor skills

More top rope climbing with coached movement skills

Day 2: 8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

Bouldering warm up

Review yesterday skills

Students will set up their own anchor/climb while being coached

Top rope climbing and more advanced movement skills

Introduction to traditional gear

Additional skill if time permits

Course debrief and wrap-up by 5:00pm

Day 3 option: 8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

This extra day is available for those interested in further developing their skills. The 1st logical option is to join our Rock rescue course for an extra $105. You can also hire a guide for this 3rd day and customize your learning on a multi pitch climb, do a specific skills clinic or a more advance skills like Aid Climbing

Prerequisites

This is a beginner to intermediate program for climbers wishing to make a safe transition from gym climbing to outdoor rock climbing. Previous gym climbing experience is necessary, outdoor climbing aspirations is useful.

Equipment

Rock Climbing EquipmentList

Weather

Summer (July and August) tend to be more predictable but can be very hot. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from +20C to +30C. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.

Location

The group will be meeting with the instructor at 8:00 AM of the 1st day at pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site in the West Kootenays. We will go over last minute equipment issues review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
All technical equipment
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this course, candidates will benefit from a year or two of periodic gym climbing. If you have lots of gym climbing experience along with some outdoor rock climbing experience, the advance rock course may be more beneficial for you. Please feel free to contact us in this regard.

Is it safe?

For all of our climbing programs and courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guaranties you the highest safety standards in the industry. Rock climbing remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Can I rent some of the rock climbing equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Courses / Rock Climbing Courses /

Advanced Rock Climbing

This course is designed for intermediate to advanced climbers seeking a broader rock climbing skill set.

This 1 or 2 day program provides a safe learning environment to continue refining your skills and bring them to the next level.

Day one focuses on lead belay skills and day two focuses on multi-pitch climbing. Topics include improvise anchors and belay systems, advance movement skills, lead and multi-pitch climbing, traditional climbing and much more. Intermediate to Advanced climbers welcome.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day 1: 8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda

Issue of required gear

Review movement on rock while bouldering

Review knots, basic belay systems and calls

Review rappelling & lowering

Revise anchor construction and gear placements

Climb sport and traditional gear routes

Personalized coaching in movement skills

Day 2: 8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

Bouldering warm up

Review yesterday skills

Setting up and assessing improvised anchors

Climb sport and traditional gear routes

Simulated traditional gear leads

Additional skill if time permits

Personal evaluation; recognizing strengths, weaknesses, comfort zones, instructor recommendations, etc.

Course debrief and wrap-up by 5:00pm

Day 3 option: 8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

This extra day is available for those interested in further developing their skills. The 1st logical option is to join our Rock rescue course on May 25th for an extra $105. You can also hire a guide for this 3rd day and customize your learning on a multi pitch climb, do a specific skills clinic or a more advance skills like Aid Climbing

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate to advanced course for climbers seeking a broader rock climbing skill set. Previous lead climbing experience on sport routes in the 5.8 to 5.10a range is required. Some exposure to traditional gear and crack climbing is very useful.

Equipment

Weather

Summer (July and August) tend to be more predictable but can be very hot. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from +20C to +30C. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.

Location

The group will be meeting with the instructor at 8:00 AM of the 1st day at pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site in the West Kootenays. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
All technical equipment
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

On this course, candidates will benefit from a few years of sport lead climbing experience (5.8 to 5.10a) along with exposure to climbing with traditional gear on crack climbs. The more experience you have, the more you will benefit from this course.

Is it safe?

For all of our climbing programs and courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guaranties you the highest safety standards in the industry. Rock climbing remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Can I rent some of the rock climbing equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Home / Rock Climbing / Courses / Rock Climbing Courses /

Rock Rescue

Prepare yourself for the unexpected! Be in the know, this basic course will develop your improvised rock rescue skills...

This 1 day course is an introduction to improvised rock climbing rescue.

Topics include rope ascending, escaping the belay, load transfers, raising and lowering systems along with troubleshooting various scenarios. Intermediate to advance climbers welcome.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

8:00 AM meeting at local climbing site

Welcome, introduction, goals & agenda

Issue of required gear

Revise anchor construction

Introduction of rescue knots

Fall factor and multiplication of forces

Rope ascending

Escaping the belay, load transfers

Raising and lowering systems

Troubleshooting various scenarios (leaders fall, traverses, etc.)

Course debrief and wrap-up by 5:00pm

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate to advanced course for climbers interested in developing their improvised rescue skills. Previous lead climbing experience along with some exposure to traditional gear and crack climbing is very useful.

Equipment

Weather

Summer (July and August) tend to be more predictable but can be very hot. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from +20C to +30C. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.

Location

The group will be meeting with the instructor at 8:00 AM at a pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Pre-course planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services
15 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
All technical equipment
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment

FAQ

How experienced do I need to be?

Is it safe?

For all of our climbing programs and courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guaranties you the highest safety standards in the industry. Rock climbing remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Can I rent some of the rock climbing equipment needed during the programs?

Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca

Click here for the Equipment List

Bonnington Traverse

A good introduction to backcountry ski-traverses from the comfort of rustic mountain huts...

A West Kootenay classic! This hut-to -hut tour is a good introduction to ski traverses. It offers fantastic tree skiing, open bowls and sharp ridges along with a reliable snowpack. Along the way, there are plenty of good views from the many ski peaks in the 7000’ (2300m) range.

This 3 to 4 day tours is available from December to April. It is very accessible from either Nelson, Castlegar or Rossland. Due to the slightly lower elevation of this trip and the abundance of good tree skiing along the way, it remains a good option in variable weather & conditions.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

This is a 3 day program with helicopter access or a 4 day program with vehicle access.

3 day trip:

Day 1: We will drive to Castlegar early in the morning and take a helicopter flight to a high mountain ridge near Grassy Mountain on the west side of the Bonnington Range. During the day we will enjoy powder skiing descents and challenging ascents en route to the Steed hut near Siwash Mountain.
Day 2: After a night in the lovely Steed hut we will make our way to the rustic Copper Mountain hut. We will be travelling on the east side of Siwash Mountain and the head waters of Erie creek. Many great ski descents and fun touring are on the menu for the day.
Day 3: Weather and conditions permitting, we will be travelling along an exposed mountain ridge between Copper Mountain and Empire peak. The highlight of the trip! Along the way, there are plenty of options for outstanding runs with fantastic views. From there a long descent to Barrett Lake and down Barrett creek will bring us back to the real world and a cozy shuttle back to Nelson

4 day trip:

Day 1: We will drive to the Bombi summit, a mountain pass along highway 3B between Castlegar and Salmo, and ski tour to the Grassy Mountain hut. We will ascend to a sub summit SW of Grassy Mountain and ski down to this rustic hut. Depending on timing and energy levels, we may do a few runs on the beautiful open glades below Grassy Mountain.
Day 2: After an early start, we will travel northward along the west end of the Bonnington range. During the day we will enjoy powder skiing descents and challenging ascents en route to the Steed hut near Siwash Mountain.
Day 3: After a night in the lovely Steed hut we will make our way to the rustic Copper Mountain hut. We will be travelling on the east side of Siwash Mountain and the head waters of Erie creek. Many great ski descents and fun touring are on the menu for the day.
Day 4: Weather and conditions permitting, we will be travelling along an exposed mountain ridge between Copper Mountain and Empire peak. The highlight of the trip! Along the way, there are plenty of options for outstanding runs with fantastic views. From there a long descent to Barrett Lake and down Barrett creek will bring us back to the real world and a cozy shuttle back to Nelson.

Prerequisites

This is a beginner to intermediate ski traverse. Prior day backcountry ski touring experience with a minimum of intermediate downhill skills is required. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Location

This trip is based in Nelson BC. You will be meeting with your guide the evening before the trip starts for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following days. We will also sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide and /or ACMG Ski guide service
Transportation from/to Nelson at the start and end of the trip
All meals while on the trip
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Helicopter access
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Kokanee Glacier Traverse

A modern traverse involving heaps of good skiing...

This little known gem is our local favorite! It is an interesting 5 day trip and a good introduction to tent based ski-traverses. The highlight includes: fantastic steep ascents and descent, complex but intriguing alpine terrain and beautiful scenery while traveling through the famous Kokanee Glacier Park.

The itinerary of this exciting trip starts with a heli drop near the Kokanee Provincial park boundary. From there we will travel through Kokanee Provincial Park via the Kokanee & Woodbury Glaciers, the Silver Spray Basin and the Cariboo Ridge all the way to Kalso BC. Like the Valhalla traverse this trip is best done in March and April.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate to advance ski traverse. Prior overnight backcountry ski touring experience, preferably winter camping, and a minimum of advanced downhill skiing skills are required. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and options.

Equipment

Weather

Location

This trip is located in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park in the Southeastern British Columbia. You will be meeting with your guide the evening before the trip starts in Nelson for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following days. We will also sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide and /or ACMG Ski guide service
Transportation from/to Nelson at the start and end of the trip
Helicopter Access to our starting point
All Breakfasts and Dinners while on the trip
Tents and Cooking equipment for winter camping
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Individual Lunches
Personal ski touring & avalanche safety equipment
Trip cancellation, adventure travel, rescue & medical insurance. Contact us for more info

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Click here for Equipment list

Wapta Ice Fields Traverse

An all-time Canadian Rockies classic hut-to-hut ski traverse...

An outstanding ski traverse in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, a must do! This multi-day hut-to-hut ski traverse follows the spine of the Wapta & Wapituk icefields in Banff National Park just west of Lake Louise.

There is plenty of impressive ski touring terrain on this trip; vast glaciers, high alpine vistas and many ski-able summits. We will have the luxury of going to a comfortable new hut every night. While the traditional way of skiing this traverse is from Peyto hut to Sherbrooke lake (North to South), there are many possible variations available. For optimal conditions, this tour is best done between February and April.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Many variations exist for a four to six day program, contact us for more info

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate ski traverse. Prior overnight back country ski touring experience is beneficial. A minimum of intermediate downhill skiing ability and previous ski touring experience required.

Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and options.

Equipment

Weather

The Rocky Mountain weather is generally cold and dry. In winter you expect temperatures to be from -25C to –10C in the day while in spring daily temperatures could rise to zero. Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change within the day.

Location

Located in the heart of Banff National Park, the traverse is surrounded by the stunning Canadian Rockies. Famous for its well-preserved natural beauty, this tour also offers some fantastic alpine and glaciated ski touring with possible ski mountaineering ascents.

Due to the cold temperatures and a long winter season, It is best to visit this area from mid Winter to late Spring.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide and /or ACMG Ski guide service
Transportation from/to Nelson at the start and end of the trip
Shuttle back to car drop
All breakfast and supper meals while on the trip
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Personal snacks or daily lunches while on the trip
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of winter safety equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in Canmore, Banff, Lake Lousie & Golden that supply good service, quality outdoor equipment and gear rental. Please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Canmore:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (403) 678-5610 www.shop.vpo.ca

Banff:

Monod Sports: (403) 762-4571 www.monodsports.com

Lake Louise:

Wilson Mountain Sports: (866) 929-3636 www.lakelouisewilsons.com

Golden:

Selkirk Source for Sports: (250) 344-2966

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Which should you use? If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine Touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier or Snowboarder should you bring Telemark or Split Board gear. All types of gear can be rented prior to your day trip. There are three types of backcountry systems you can use:

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Ski Touring / Ski the European Alps /

Haute Route

Deservedly the most historic hut to hut ski traverses in the world...

The original multi day ski traverse between Chamonix and Zermatt. Experience the merging of mountain beauty and culture, this popular tour offers fantastic ski ascents and descents on high elevation glaciated terrain while staying in cozy mountain huts.

This classic tour is a great introduction to ski touring in the Alps. The Haute Route is a 9 day program with 7 days of ski touring, best done in April & May.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Below is a sample itinerary for the “Classic” Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt via the Valsorey and the “Plateau du Couloir”. We also offer the more modern 9 day itinerary via Verbier, contact us for more details. The Valsorey route requires slightly more mountaineering skills and is more exposed to avalanche hazard than the Verbier variation.

To break the ice and get a chance to acclimatize before your trip starts, we recommend that you join your guide for a fantastic day tour and descent of the famous “Vallée Blanche” from L’aiguille du Midi near Chamonix. Contact us for more details about this option.

Chamonix-Zermatt via the Valsorey:

Day 1: Meet with your guide(s) for trip briefing, equipment check and dinner. We will spend the night in a hotel in the Chamonix Valley.

Day 2: We will take the 1st cable car to the Grand Montet (3300m) and descent to the Argentiere Glacier (about 2700m) and traverse across the glacier to the Argentiere hut (2770m=9085ft). 170m = 560’ climb, 650m = 2130’ descent, 4 km, 2.5 hrs.

Day 3: Climb up to the Col Du Chardonnet (3323m), ski down to Switzerland. Climb back up to the Fenetre de Saleina (3267m). Ski down the upper Trient glacier to the Refuge du Trient (3240m). 1000m = 3300’ climb, 550m = 1800’ descent, 10km, 6 hrs.

Day 4: Descent on the steep lower Trient Glacier to the Fenetre des Chamois (2985m), through and down the other side steeply to Val d’Arpette and eventually the little village of Champex (1470m). 1570m = 5150’ descent, 9 km, 3 hrs. Taxi Ride from Champex to Bourg St. Pierre (30 min) and lodging in town with an opportunity to buy lunch food etc. for the next few days.

Day 5: After an early start, we will ascend through the lovely Valsorey to the Valsorey Hut (3037m = 9960ft.), 1400m = 4600’ climb, 8km, 7 hrs.

Day 6: A steep climb to the Plateau du Couloir (3664m) leads to a magnificent descent on the Durrand Glacier towards the Lac de Mauvoisin and back up to the Refuge Chanrion (2460m=8070ft). 940m = 3090’ climb, 1510m = 4950’ descent, 12km, 7 hrs.
Note: This is one of the crux days on the classic haute route which requires both good snow stability and stable weather. Itinerary may be re-routed through Verbier if these conditions are not optimal.

Day 7: A ski ascent of the Glacier Brenay to the summit of the stunning Pigne d’Arolla (3800m = 12500ft) offering great views of the entire traverse. Descent to the Cabane Vignette (3185m=10450ft). 1330m = 4360’ climb, 640m = 1340’ descent, 10km, 7 hrs.

Day 8: The famous 3 Col Traverse is probably the best day of the whole trip! Via Col de l’Eveque (3392m), Col de Mont Brulee (3213m) and Col de Valpelline (3568m) and a long, glaciated descent underneath the impressive North Face of the Matterhorn all the way into Zermatt. There we will spend our last night in a hotel. 1120m = 3675’ climb, 2670m = 8760’ decent, 25km, 8 hrs.

Day 9: Group breakfast and individual travel back home.

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate to advanced program. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on previous experience and ability. Prior experience with Summit Mountain Guides is an asset as it helps you anticipate the difficulty and style of our program. Please contact us to discuss your specific ski background.

Equipment

Weather

Spring mountain weather in the Alps can vary wildly from -15C to +10C in the day . Visibility may be poor with whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change within the day.

Location

The group will be meeting with the guide in Chamonix the day before the trip start. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
3 Hotel nights; Chamonix, Bourg St-Pierre & Zermatt, including Breakfast
Luggage transfer from Chamonix to Zermatt
Grand Montet Lift fee in Argentiere
All hut fees with Breakfast and Dinners
Taxi transfer from Champex to Bourg St-Pierre
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)
Alternative plan based on current conditions

Not included in price:

Lunch, alcohol & snacks
Dinner in Chamonix and Zermatt pre/post trip
Personal ski touring & technical equipment
Any additional lifts, train & taxi costs related to a plan change
The Furi lift to Zermatt if snow cover prevents from skiing down
Extra charges for single room while lodging in the Valley
Transportation and lodging costs prior to meeting
Trip cancellation, adventure travel & rescue insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Alpine Ski-touring or Telemark gear? Which should you use?

If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier should you use Telemark gear.

Spring skiing the high alpine of the European Alps offers variable snow conditions. On one particular run things may go from perfect powder to challenging breakable crust and or variable wind affected snow. When compounded, the variable snow conditions, the long ski touring days and the large day packs all call towards the use of an easier skiing set up like alpine touring.

The Haute Route provide a fantastic mountain travel experience. The skis become a travelling medium in the greater goal of getting from A to B. Alpine touring makes for fast and efficient travel hence contributing to a safer and more successful experience.

Nelson Classics

Selkirk, Monashee and Purcell Mountains, B.C. Backcountry Day Ski Touring

Discover the legendary powder, diverse terrain and consistently deep snow found in the mountains around Nelson, Rossland and Kaslo. Expand your avalanche and mountain knowledge while backcountry skiing with a seasoned local guide. Our day trips take place in the stunning backcountry of the Monashee, Selkirk and Purcell Mountains. Whether you are a beginner or advanced skier we offer trips based on your skiing background. Our low guest to guide ratio maximize a safe and personal backcountry ski touring experience. Individuals and groups welcome!

Here are a few local classics.

Whitewater Backcountry

The backcountry near Whitewater ski resort is stunning, deep and accessible. There are many options to explore, using lifts or road access, including Ymir Peak, Five mile basin and Evening ridge.

Kootenay Pass

Mount Brennan or London Ridge

Rossland and Red Mountain area

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Meet your guide at 8:00 am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive up to ski touring destinations (either skin up from the car or take the ski resort lift)
Full day programs, back from last run one hour before sunset; half day programs wrap up shortly after lunch.

Prerequisites

Equipment

Weather

Location

All the ski touring venues in this section are located with-in an hour drive from Nelson. Depending on your preferences and the ski touring area you are interested-in, suitable accommodation can be found in Nelson, Rossland, Kaslo & New Denver.

You will be meeting with your guide the evening before the trip starts for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Transportation or lift fee if applicable
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Roger’s Pass

Deservedly well known and yet still full of surprises...

Located in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains, along highway # 1 between Golden and Revelstoke, Rogers pass is the classic road side ski touring destination in western Canada. It boasts an incredible variety of tours ranging from high-glaciated ascents to fantastic alpine descents along with outstanding tree skiing.

Roger’s Pass offers a deep and reliable snow pack along with relatively easy access. There are countless unique venues in the many ski touring accessible valleys nearby.This world-class venue must be experience by everyone who enjoys backcountry skiing.

Every winter season, from mid-December to April, Summit Mountain Guides offers day to multi-day ski touring trips at Rogers Pass. Because this destination is road accessible, it is possible to do various trip length. To fully appreciate this extensive ski touring mecca, we recommend a minimum of 3 to 4 days.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

A typical ski touring days at Rogers Pass is long, arduous and rewarding. Depending on the tour selection, we will on average ski between 4000 and 6000 vertical feet (up and down!) per day. Below you will find a sample itinerary for day backcountry ski touring in Rogers Pass. This itinerary is bound to change as the weather, daylight hours & avalanche conditions evolve during the season.

Sample Day Ski Touring itinerary:

Meet your guide at 7:30 am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive to ski touring destinations
Enjoy a full day of backcountry ski touring with lunch in the mountains
Back from last run one hour before sunset.
Celebrate and start again the next day!

Here are some Rogers Pass classic day trips:

Connaught Creek area: Grizzly Shoulder, Balu Pass, 8812 peak, Little Sifton & Hermit Meadows.
Illecilleweat Glacier area: Avalanche crest, Sir Donald Col, Perly rocks, North Terninal peak, Lookout notch & Youngs peak.
Asulkan Valley area: Dome glacier, Asulkan glacier, Sapphire col, Asulkan pass & Youngs peak.
Loop Brook area: Lily glacier, Bonney glacier & Bonney trees.
Bostock Creek area: Bostock pass, Farm pass, McGill pass, McGill shoulder & Ursus creek.

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate to advanced ski touring program. Prior day backcountry ski touring experience with a minimum of intermediate downhill skills is required. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

The Selkirk Mountain weather can vary drastically. In winter you expect temperatures to be from -20C to –7C in the day while in spring daily temperatures could rise above zero. Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation can change within the day.

Location

This trip is based at Rogers Pass in Canada’s Glacier National Park. Rogers Pass is a high mountain pass in South Eastern British Columbia along HWY #1. It is 1hr drive East of Revelstoke and 1 & 1/2 hr drive West of Golden. For Day & multi-Day trips, suitable accommodation can be found at Rogers Pass, in Revelstoke and in Golden. For overnight backcountry trips, it is possible to stay in a backcountry cabin. The Alpine Club of Canada maintains a few well located mountain huts in Glacier National Park.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide and /or ACMG Ski guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Meals, lunches & accommodation while on the trip
Day Wilderness Passes
National Park visitor pass
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of winter safety equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson, Revelstoke and Golden that supply good service, quality outdoor equipment and gear rental. Please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Nelson:

Rivers Oceans and Mountains: (250) 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (250) 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks: (250) 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Revelstoke:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (250) 837 5517 www.shop.vpo.ca

Golden:

180 Mountain Sports: (250)344-4699 www.180golden.com
Selkirk Source for Sports: (250) 344-2966

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Which should you use? If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine Touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier or Snowboarder should you bring Telemark or Split Board gear. All types of gear can be rented prior to your day trip. There are three types of backcountry systems you can use:

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Lake Louise Ski Tours

Ski Touring in the heart of the Canadian Rockies...

Located in the heart of Banff National Park, the town of Lake Louise is surrounded by the stunning Canadian Rockies. Famous for its well-preserved natural beauty, this area also offers some fantastic alpine and glaciated ski touring with possible ski mountaineering ascents.

Due to the cold temperatures and a long winter season, It is best to visit this area from mid Winter to late Spring. Whether you are interested in ski touring or ski mountaineering, Summit Mountain Guides offers various day & multi-day programs in this area from February to mid May.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

A typical ski touring days in the Canadian Rockies is long, arduous and rewarding. Depending on the tour selection, we will on average ski between 4000 and 6000 vertical feet (up and down!) per day. Below you will find a sample itinerary for day backcountry ski touring in the Canadian Rockies. This itinerary is bound to change as the weather, daylight hours & avalanche conditions evolve during the season.

Sample Day Ski Touring itinerary:

Meet your guide at 7:30 am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
Drive to ski touring destinations
Enjoy a full day of backcountry ski touring with lunch in the mountains
Back from last run one hour before sunset.
Celebrate and start again the next day!

Here are some Canadian Rockies classic day trips:

Bow Summit area: Observation Mountain, Cirque Peak, Crowfoot Mountain, Mount Jimmy Simpson, Dolomite Pass & Mosquito creek area.
Lake Louise area : Fairview Mountain, Suprise Pass, Mount Hector, Popes Shoulder & Divide creek.
Yoho park & Field area: Mount Field, Mount Ogden, Cathedral Mountain.
Kootenay parkway area: Storm Mountain, The Burn.

Prerequisites

Equipment

Weather

Location

The Ski Touring objectives on this trip are located in Banff and Yoho National Parks. For Day & multi-Day trips, suitable accommodation can be found at Lake Louise, in Field and in Golden. The town of Lake Louise is the ideal base location. For overnight backcountry trips, it is possible to stay in a backcountry cabin. The Alpine Club of Canada maintains a few well located mountain huts in Banff and Yoho National Parks.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide and /or ACMG Ski guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Meals, lunches & accommodation while on the trip
National Park visitor pass
Lifts fees to access the backcountry if applicable
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Canmore:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters: (403) 678-5610 www.shop.vpo.ca

Banff:

Monod Sports: (403) 762-4571 www.monodsports.com

Lake Louise:

Wilson Mountain Sports: (866) 929-3636 www.lakelouisewilsons.com

Golden:

Selkirk Source for Sports: (250) 344-2966

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Which should you use? If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine Touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier or Snowboarder should you bring Telemark or Split Board gear. All types of gear can be rented prior to your day trip. There are three types of backcountry systems you can use:

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Heli-Access Ski Touring

The ultimate way to access Backcountry ski touring…

Get the most out of your ski holiday in the Kootenays by flying directly into the backcountry. Start your day with an exciting run down a remote peak, followed by many more untracked powder descents with fantastic views. Enjoy being far from crowds while ski touring an exclusive mountain area for the day. Discover the legendary powder, diverse terrain and consistently deep snow found in the mountains of the Nelson area.

Throughout the winter months, Summit Mountain Guides offers Heli Drop ski touring programs in the Selkirk’s, Purcell’s and Monashee mountains of south-eastern British Columbia. Our regular programs are based out of beautiful Nelson and Kaslo BC and include countless venues for you to explore. By leaving all the logistics and safety to our expert team, you will maximize your skiing holiday. Programs are geared towards moderate to advanced ski tourers.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

The itinerary on this program will vary depending on proximity and accessibility of the chosen heli access ski touring area. We will typically meet at 07:30 in the morning and carpool to a staging area with-in an hours drive of Nelson. After a quick Heli briefing and final condition check, we will fly into an exclusive back country playground for a full day of ski touring. We will enjoy a minimum of 4 quality descents and 3 arduous ascents while skiing upwards of 5000 vertical feet. Depending on the program, we will either fly back or ski out to civilization in time for a well earned shower and timely Dinner.

Prerequisites

Prior backcountry skiing experience with intermediate to advanced ski touring ability required.

Equipment

Click here for Equipment list

Weather

Location

We will be flying into the backcountry from a staging area close to our ski touring location. Most staging areas this program are located with-in an hour drive from Nelson. You will be meeting with your guide the evening before the trip starts for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.

Depending on your preferences and the ski touring area you are interested-in, suitable accommodation can be found in Nelson, Kaslo & New Denver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and / or ACMG guide service
Helicopter charges
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kits, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)

Not included in price:

Lunch, snacks
Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Ski Touring / Ski the European Alps /

Berner Oberland

This UNESCO world heritage site is renowned for it large glaciers and iconic summits...

This area of the Bernise Alps is located just south of Grindelwald, Switzerland, home of the famous Eiger north face.

Bernise Alps offers the most extensive glaciations in the Alps along with consistently deeper snow pack. The peaks here are high, iconic and aesthetic for ski touring and ski mountaineering.

This trip is ideal for intermediate to advanced ski touring experience. Our 8 day programs with 6 days ski touring are available from mid-April to mid-May.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day 1: Meet with your guide(s) for trip briefing, equipment check and dinner. We will spend the night in a Grindelwald Hotel.

Day 2: Train to Jungfraujoch, 3500m ski down to 3200m on the JungfrauFirn; up to Touriohorn NE face to 3700m ; down Kran Berfirn to Grosser Aletsch Firn to 2800m then up to Hollandia Hutte at 3240m.

Day 3: Up the Abeniflue Firn to Abeni Flue at 3950m; ski down to Grosser Aletshfirn to Concordia Hutte at 2850m.

Day 4: Up the Gross Grunhorn at 4060m then contiinue over to the Finsteraarhorn Hut at 3050m.

Day 5: Climb Agassizhorn at 3900m or Finterarhorn 4300m and ski back to Finsteraarhorn Hutte.

Day 6: Climb Gross Wannenherd at 3950m and/or Wysnollen at 3600m then back to Finsteraarhorn Hutte.

Day 7: Ski to Vordgalmihorn at 3520m and down a long 2000m run via the Bachital Valley to Gluringen for taxi or train to Brig, pick up stored luggage and overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Group breakfast and individual travel back home.

Prerequisites

This is an intermediate to advance program. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability.

Prior experience with Summit Mountain Guides helps you anticipate the difficulty and style of our program. It is an asset. Please contact us to discuss your background.

Equipment

Weather

Location

The group will be meeting with the guide in Grindelwald the day before the trip start. We will go over last minute equipment issues, go over last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions) and logistic for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
2 Hotel nights; Grindelwald & Brig, including Breakfast
Train fee up to the famous Jungfraujoch above Grindelwald
All hut fees with Breakfast and Dinners
Train from Gluringen to Brig at the end of our trip
Luggage transfer from Grindelwald to Brig
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)
Alternative plan based on current conditions

Not included in price:

Lunch, alcohol & snacks
Personal ski touring & technical equipment
Any additional lifts, train & taxi costs related to a plan change
Dinner in Grindelwald & Brig are not included
Extra charges for single room while lodging in the Valley
Transportation and lodging costs prior to meeting
Trip cancellation, adventure travel & rescue insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Alpine Ski-touring or Telemark gear? Which should you use?

If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier should you use Telemark gear.

The Berner Oberland provide a fantastic mountain travel experience. The skis become a travelling medium. Alpine touring makes for fast and efficient travel hence contributing to a safer and more successful experience.

Home / Ski Touring / Ski the European Alps /

Monte Rosa Ski Peaks

Often dubbed the Italian Haute Route, this area offers an outstanding cluster of high ski mountaineering peaks...

Located near Zermatt, the Monte Rosa massif contains several challenging ski-mountaineering summits including the highest peak in Switzerland, Dufour Spitz 4634m.

This area offers great skiing on big relief with high broken glaciers and peak ascents requiring basic mountaineering skills. This trip is ideal for intermediate to advance ski mountaineers. This 9 day program with 7 days of ski touring is available from mid-April to mid-May.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Day 1: 4pm meeting with your guide(s) for trip briefing, equipment check and dinner. We will spend the night in a Zermatt Hotel.

Day 2: After an early Taxi ride to Saas Fee and a lift ride above the village, we will make a ski ascent of Allalinhorn(4027m) and eventually make our way to the Britannia hut(3030m) for a few nights.

Day 3: We will make a ski ascent of Strahlhorn (4190m) and return to the Britania hut (3030m).

Day 4: From the Britannia hut (3030m) we will make a ski ascent of Alphubel (4206m) and ski back down to Saas Fee. We will then take a taxi back to Zermatt and our hotel.

Day 5: After an early morning cable car ride to the Klein Matterhorn (3800m), we will make a ski ascent of the Breithorn (4164m) and ski down to the Guide d’Ayas Hut (3425m) on the Italian side of Monte Rosa.

Day 6: We will attempt an ascent of either Castor peak (4226m) or Pollux peak (4069m). Afterward, we will ski back to Switzerland via the Schwaxtor glacier and make our way up to the Monte-Rosa Hut (2795m) for a few nights.

Day 7: We will attempt a ski ascent of Dufourspitze (4634m), the highest peak in Switzerland, and return to the Monte-Rosa Hut (2795m).

Day 8: After ascending to the summit of Zumsteinspitze (4563m), we will enjoy a long descent back to Zermatt and our last evening together.

Day 9: Group breakfast and individual travel back home.

Prerequisites

This is an advanced program. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability.

Previous experience with Summit Mountain Guides is an asset and helps you anticipate the difficulty and style of our program. Please contact us to discuss your specific ski background.

Equipment

Click here for Equipment list

Weather

Location

The Monte Rosa Ski Peaks are located near Zermatt and Saas-Fee along the Swiss/Italian Border in the Swiss Alps. The most convenient way to get to Zermatt is by a 3.5 hour train ride from the Geneva International Airport.

The group will be meeting with the guide in Zermatt the day before the trip start. We will go over equipment, last minute changes (weather & avalanche conditions), logistics for the following day(s) and sign a liability waiver.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
3 Hotel nights in Zermatt including Breakfast
Taxi fee to Saas Fee return
Lift to the Klein Matterhorn
All hut fees with Breakfast and Dinners
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)
Alternative plan based on current conditions

Not included in price:

Lunch, alcohol & snacks
Personal ski touring & technical equipment
Any additional lifts, train & taxi costs related to a plan change
Dinners while in Zermatt are not included
Extra charges for single room while lodging in the Valley
Transportation and lodging costs prior to meeting
Trip cancellation, adventure travel & rescue insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Alpine Ski-touring or Telemark gear? Which should you use?

If you are a downhill skier then you should use Alpine touring gear. Only if you are already an advanced Telemark skier should you use Telemark gear.

The Monte Rosa Massif provide a fantastic mountain travel experience. The skis become a travelling medium. Alpine touring makes for fast and efficient travel hence contributing to a safer and more successful experience.

Home / Ski Touring / Lodge Based Ski Week /

Powder Creek Lodge

Fly into an aesthetic back country lodge in the Purcells Mountains, across from Kalso, B.C.

Nestled in the Purcell Mountains of southern British Columbia, Powder Creek Lodge is a comfortable and modern high-country ski lodge situated in a remote and breathtakingly beautiful alpine basin.

Enjoy ski touring in a big snowpack, on average over 3 metres, and an unlimited variety of treed and open terrain suitable for all ability levels.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Daily guided ski touring from the lodge with a professional guide. Explore the diverse terrain, enjoy spectacular sceneray and return by afternoon to the comforts of the lodge.

Prerequisites

Ski week is suitable for all levels, best fit is to match people into similar skill groups. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Kootenay weather can vary drastically. In winter you expect temperatures to be from

-15C to –5C in the day while in spring daily temperatures could rise well above zero. Visibility may be poor or whiteout conditions when snowing heavily or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind, precipitation can change within the day.

Location

Located in the snowy Selkirk Mountain of South-Eastern British Columbia, the lodge is in the Purcell Mountains, across the lake from Kaslo.

The lodge is a roomy 2 1/2 story wood frame with 6 rooms and 15 comfortable beds in the main lodge for guest use.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)
Helicopter flight in/out of lodge
Gourmet Meals

Not included in price:

Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Accomodation or transport prior to meeting location
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Telemark skis. These should only be used for this program if you are at least an intermediate telemark skier with some backcountry experience. This system is more difficult and less forgiving than the others.

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.

Home / Ski Touring / Lodge Based Ski Week /

Valhalla Lodge

Fly into a unique back country lodge in the Selkirk Mountains, Valhalla Mountain Range.

Celebrate spring and enjoy superb backcountry skiing in the comfort of a classic backcountry lodge with your friends and family. Spectacular scenery, classic lines and big terrain.

Valhalla Backcountry Lodge sits high at an elevation of 6900 feet on a large granite slab and is surrounded by ten ski able alpine basins allowing a short ski to terrain for every ability.

Enjoy ski touring with a professional guide, find the best lines and learn how to reduce avalanche risk. After a satisfying day touring in one of the alpine bases return to a gourmet meal and a relaxing sauna. The lodge accomodates guests in private bedrooms.

Itinerary Prerequisites Equipment Weather Location
Services Included FAQ

Itinerary

Daily guided ski touring from the lodge with a professional guide. Explore the diverse terrain, enjoy spectacular sceneray and return by afternoon to the comforts of the lodge.

Prerequisites

Ski week is best suited for moderate to advanced skiers. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.

Equipment

Weather

Kootenay weather can vary drastically. In winter you expect temperatures to be from

Location

Located in the snowy Selkirk Mountain of South-Eastern British Columbia, the lodge is in the Valhalla Mountain Range in West Kootenays.

Services Included

Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA guide service
Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)
Helicopter flight in/out of lodge
Gourmet Meals

Not included in price:

Personal ski and avalanche safety equipment
Accomodation or transport prior to meeting location
Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance

FAQ

Where can I rent Ski touring and safety equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
Gericks 354-4622 www.gericks.com

Skis, Telemark or Split Boards?

Snowboarding with a Split Board is the most effective way to snowboard in the back country. We recommend this system to advanced snowboarder over snowshoeing.