Alpine Scrambling
Alpine scrambling involves terrain that sits in the grey zone between hiking and climbing. The hands are used for balance but ropes may be incorporated in isolated locations, or to increase comfort levels. It's an activity that appeals to a wider audience as fun peaks can be climbed with mere hiking fitness. Route finding, hazard management, changing conditions and limited rope work are the tricky parts that often get new scramblers in trouble. Our guided outings are designed to develop good habits in a controlled environment with an emphasis on fun.
Day Trips from Nelson
Gimli Peak (2806m)
This showpiece of the Valhallas stands proud, commanding respect when viewed on the approach from the south. A 3rd class (advanced) scramble on the East Ridge puts you on the summit from which astounding views of the entire range are seen as the Mulvey Lakes Basin drops away thousands of feet below. You should be a strong hiker with good fitness. (1100m vertical gain + 10km round trip)
Trip length: ~12 hrs. round trip from Nelson
Dates:
July 15, 2012
$135/person (includes ACMG guide and any necessary equipment)
Custom dates available late June to late September. See our Booking page for pricing.
Mt. Loki (2779m)
This impressive pyramidal peak is seen easily from most points along Kootenay Lake. Scrambling the west ridge is an awesome day trip from Nelson and includes the scenic Kootenay Lake ferry crossing. The final 450m vertical meters to the summit are 3rd class scrambling negotiating gendarmes along the way. You should have good hiking fitness and be prepared for 8-9 hrs. of hiking/scrambling. (1030m vertical + 10km round trip)
Trip length: ~12 hrs. round trip from Nelson
Dates:
Aug. 11, 2012
$135/person (includes ACMG guide and any necessary equipment)
Custom dates available late June to late September. See our Booking page for pricing.
Ymir Mountain (2398m)
Dominating the scene at Whitewater Ski resort, this peak named for the founder of the frost giants in Norse mythology makes for a great scrambling traverse in summer. The circuit loops around in a clockwise direction over Half Dome and starts and finishes right at the ski resort. (750m vertical + 6km round trip)
Trip length: ~9 hrs. round trip from Nelson
Season: Early June to late September
Multiday Trips
Kokanee Glacier Park - Silver Spray Cabin
Perched high in a subalpine meadow encircled by stunning peaks and tranquil tarns, the Silver Spray Cabin boasts easy access, fantastic views and great scrambling. The close neighboring summits like Evening Star Peak, Mt. McQuarrie, Kyawats and Sunrise Mountains provide bounds of entertainment. Enjoy the comforts of a mountain hut with adventure right off the front porch on this 3 day trip! This area of Kokanee Park offers all the excitement of its western counterpart without the crowds.
No experience required but you should have good hiking fitness and be able to carry an overnight pack.
Dates:
Sep. 3-5, 2011
$450/person (includes ACMG guide and accommodation)
Custom dates available late June to late September. See our Booking page for pricing.
Valhallas
This stunning alpine paradise boasts tremendous towering peaks, beautiful vistas and no crowds. From a tent based camp in the fantastically scenic Mulvey Lakes Basin there are excellent scrambling options on Gimli, Nisleheim, Midgard and Asgard Peaks.
Trip length: 2-6 days
Season: Mid June to late September
Kokanee Glacier Park
This ultra scenic haven with its gorgeous lakes and streams, glaciated peaks and flower meadows is an alpine scrambler's paradise. The luxurious Kokanee Lodge built in honour of former Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau's son is accessed within a half day from Nelson and makes a great base for a multitude of day trips.
Trip length: 2-5 days
Season: Mid June to late September
SEE GALLERY
Contact us for details
Bugaboos
Touted as "One of the World's Great Alpine Rock Climbing Centres" with its giant towering granite spires rising up through great sheets of ice. The Bugaboos are not just for highly skilled mountain climbers, its easier summits make for great exploring!
The infamous Kain Hut makes a very comfortable base from which to tackle peaks like Eastpost Spire, Cobalt Lake Spire, Brenta Spire, Crescent Spire and the Hound's Tooth. This trip is suited to strong scramblers and some glacier travel is involved.
Trip length: 3-6 days
Season: Late June to mid-September
