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Wapta Icefields Ski Traverse

This is the classic hut based ski mountaineering traverse in the Canadian Rockies. It offers phenomenal scenery, great skiing, and a fantastic introduction to this type of adventure. Join our guides for the experience of a lifetime.

Agenda

Day 1: After arriving at the lodge by 8 or 9 am, we will sort out all our food and gear then head out to Peyto Lake to start the trip. A ski of 4 to 6 hours gets us to Peyto Hut where we will spend the night.

Day 2: From the Peyto Hut we will gain the crest of the Wapta Icefields and ski across a sea of ice surrounded by majestic peaks. A nice ski run gets us down to the large Bow Hut for dinner and an early bed.

Day 3: We will rise early and commence a steady climb to the St. Nick/Olive col. If time and conditions allow we may leave our packs and make an ascent of one of these two fine peaks. From the col it is a long beatiful descent to the Balfour Hut with glaciated peaks as far as the eye can see!

Day 4: Another early start brings us to the most difficult section of the traverse, the climb to Balfour Col. While not overly long, this slope is heavily crevassed and your guides must evaluate the hazards carefully. From the col another sweet descent gets us to the Scott Duncan hut and our last night of the trip.

Day 5: The final stretch of glacier awaits us in the morning. We will gradually work our way back down to treeline and a trail leading to the Trans Canada Highway near Lake Louise. After driving back to the lodge and enjoying a delicious meal, you can either head home or choose to stay the night ($33) and leave in the morning. This option has the advantage of giving you the use of our hot tub for the night!

Requirements

• Intermediate Skiing Ability - Comfortable on blue/black runs at the ski hill.
• Some Backcountry skiing experience.
• Avalanche Tranciever skills.
• AST1 highly recommended.

• Alpine Touring or Telemark Gear. Telemarkers must be at an advanced level of skiing with experience in backcountry conditions.
• Avalanche Tranciever, Shovel, Probe - limited quantity available for rent from COE.
• Warm winter clothing, lots of layers.
• Goggles, gloves, toque, sunglasses, etc.
• Sleeping Bag
• Extra Clothing, lots of socks and hut booties recommended.

Dates 2009 Feb 2 - 6th Registration deadline 2 weeks before start date

Cost $857 + GST(=$900) This includes: ACMG Certified Guides Hut Fees Transportation Group Gear All Meals Add-on guiding days available for 1 guest/guide at $350/day and for 2 guests/guide at $200 each/day

Sign Me Up! Fill out the Adult Course Registration Form and email it or fax it to us with a deposit of $90/person. Be prepared to fill out a Waiver Form when you arrive.