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

  • 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
Map
  • Trails Illustrated Banff North
  • Summits & Icefields Map: Wapta Icefields and Bow Summit
Activities
Trip Reports
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