Fantastic views, probably the best in the Glacier National Park (Rogers Pass). 1250m to 2045m, this trail climbs to the crest where avalanches that can reach the Trans-Canada start in winter. Leave the Illecillewaet Campground (common departure area for many trails in this area) and veer left where it starts to immediately climb and switchback. You will reach an upper sub-alpine on a large ridge which is Avalanche Crest. 3.5 hours uphill and 2 hours back.
There is GPS data attached to this trail (see "download GPS"), which if loaded into your GPS can help you find route points.
The trailhead is on the south side of the highway, near the campground. Ask at the park office; they also hand out park maps.
In winter please check the Avaluator
(Online Trip Planner) rating is:
Challenging to treeline and Complex beyond that into the bowl and slidepath.
ByPosted By: dmarr
- Fri Jan 09 10:00:21 EST 2004
Not Rated
UpsideAs suggested above,great views from the ridge. The basin is also an appealing area, despite the restricted views.
DownsideIn the trees most of the way with few views. You are also somewhat aware of the Trans-Canada below you (you can hear if not see it for he first half of the climb).
CommentDefinitely worth doing, although I would place it below one or two other Glacier hikes, such as Perley Rock.
ByPosted By: pmjwright
- Wed Jan 07 22:21:01 EST 2004
Not Rated
UpsideGreat views of Rogers Pass area.
DownsideNot all that scenic until you get onto the ridge.
CommentAt the trail junction at edge of alpine, I strongly recommend going left up the ridge, that's where the views are, the basin is not very scenic. You can go up the ridge as far as your comfort lets you, but Avalanche Mtn is definitely a for climbers.
Posted By: dmarr
