Bow-Yoho Traverse
A 40 mile backcountry ski traverse across Canada's Wapta icefield involving glacier travel and with 5,600 feet of elevation gain. This stunning route starts at Bow Lake in Banff National Park, travels to the Bow, Guy, and Stanley Mitchell huts maintained by the Alpine Club of Canada, and exits in Yoho National Park via Emerald Lakes or Takakkaw Falls.
Notes
- This is is the "big brother" ski traverse to the world famous Wapta Traverse across the Wapta icefield.
- The traverse has been made easier by the creation of the Richard and Louise Guy Hut in 2015, bridging the distance between the Bow and Stanley Mitchell huts.
information for leaders
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Considerations for travel to Canada
- Start by reviewing the latest regulations. Look for information on border crossing and travel to Canada on these websites:
- Everyone must have a passport or other valid ID like a NEXUS card.
- NEXUS cards can save a lot of time but only work if everyone in the car has one.
- Make sure your vehicle insurance is valid for Canada.
- Make sure your health insurance is valid for Canada.
- Border crossing regulations are strict in both directions. Know what you’re allowed to take and declare everything to avoid problems.
- You may be able to save time by checking alternate border crossings.
- See the Travel Industry Council of Ontario's 9 Travel Tips for Crossing the Canadian/U.S. Land Border blog post for some good tips on traveling to Canada.
- Start by reviewing the latest regulations. Look for information on border crossing and travel to Canada on these websites:
- Suitable Activities: Backcountry Skiing
- Seasons: February, March, April
- Weather: View weather forecast
- Avalanche Terrain Rating Complex
- Difficulty: M3G Expert Glacier Ski
- Length: 40.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 5,600 ft
- 9,500 ft
- Land Manager: Land Manager Varies
- Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
- Recommended Party Size: 6
- Maximum Party Size: 8
- Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 20
- Trails Illustrated Banff North
- Summits & Icefields Map: Wapta Icefields and Bow Summit
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