Wapta Traverse, classic 5-day ski touring traverse in the Canadian Rockies
Traverse the great Wapta Icefield with IFMGA-qualified guide Tom during the 5-day classic Wapta Traverse ski touring trip in the Canadian Rockies.
Rockies
5 Days
Mar, Apr
High
Intermediate
Highlights
- Explore the great slopes of the Canadian Rockies on a classic ski traverse.
- Capture the incredible mountainous scenery of the Waputik Mountains.
- Benefit from having a fully-qualified guide taking you through the backcountry.
Description
Spreading across the national parks of Banff and Yoho, the Wapta Icefield acts as a thick frosty carpet on the Waputik Mountains.
The Wapta Traverse covers this gorgeous glacial scenery and has built a world-class reputation among ski mountaineers. The traverse has become a legendary traverse.
Its excellent hut system, ideal terrain for traverses, and simple access to stunning ski mountaineering goals all combine to create a unique ski traverse.
We will begin in the beautiful mountain town of Canmore, before driving out to Bow Lake, a glacial lake with views of the Wapta Icefield.
We will slightly customize the program by replacing the Peyto Hut with an extra day at Bow Hut. This will give us more time to explore the opportunities for ski mountaineering.
Potential participants should be aware that the ski tour includes carrying heavy packs along glacial terrain of elevations of approximately 2,200 meters and 700 meters of verticals. We will also be covering 10-15 kilometers per day on average, approximately 5-7 hours per day.
Get in touch now to reserve your place in the great Canadian Rockies as we explore the Wapta Traverse on a 5-day ski tour.
If you’re looking for an alternative that is more comfortable and easier in difficulty, then take a look at the Bow Yoho Traverse, 7-day ski touring traverse in British Columbia.
Price includes
Price details
- This is the price to join to group trip.
Details
More info
Ski mountaineering gear: skis, preferably with tech-style Alpine Touring bindings (150-185cm long and 100mm wide) for powder skiing, ski crampons, climbing skins, ski poles with powder baskets, ski boots, climbing harness, locking carabiners, non-locking biners, prusik cord, 120 cm sewn sling, avalanche transceiver, collapsible avalanche probe, avalanche shovel, backpack (at least 65 litres). Other gear: sunglasses and ski goggles, water bottle (at least 1 litre), thermos, sun block, lip cream, pocket knife, sleeping bag, headlamp with fresh batteries. Clothing: long wool or synthetic underwear, extra warm shirt, medium weight fleece sweater, soft shell or fleece jacket, soft shell pants, insulated jacket, waterproof jacket with hood, waterproof pants, socks, wool or fleece hat, waterproof ski mountaineering gloves or mitts, lightweight ski gloves, neck tube or balaclava, sun hat.
Meeting point
About the guide
-Tom
5.0
(2)
Mountain Guide
Guiding has been my lifelong passion. I have lived in the Rocky Mountains for most of my life, guiding since 1995.
My main focus these days is on running winter ski touring trips at the best heli-accessed ski lodges in British Columbia. This winter I'll be at Selkirk Lodge, Burnie Glacier Chalet, Mount Carlyle Lodge, and Sunrise Lodge -- each lodge providing a very different experience for my guests. While I do like to return, year after year, to my favourite lodges (like Burnie Glacier) I also like to provide new and interesting options for my clients.
When ski season ends here in Western Canada and the rest of my colleagues are putting away their skis for the summer, I will be once again heading to Svalbard in the Arctic for another Ski and Sail trip in May. This is the only trip I still have openings for now -- maybe you would like to join me there?
Languages
German | French | English
Certificates
ACMG | UIAGM | IFMGA
What people are saying about -Tom
The Bow-Yoho Traverse April 1 to April 7, 2019. Tom, the guides (Mel and Ken) and an assistant (John) led this trip with care, kindness, humour and expertise. When conditions required it, we were able to form 2 or 3 groups according to abilities and motivation. That was fabulous. Staying the first night in Field with supper and breakfast provided is a great way to begin the trip. The shuttle at the start and at the end was well-planned. When I signed up for the trip I had concerns about the quality of the food. Tom reassured me. He was right. Michelle Heerchop's 'Touch of Love" provided the food. It was varied, tasty and nutritious. I am very very pleased that I was able to be part of this trip. I highly recommend Tom's Sawback Alpine Adventures.
Went to Burnie Chalet near Smithers BC with Sawback Alpine Adventures in April 2019. Had an amazing ski week in a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. The logistics, the accommodations, the food, the people and the skiing were all outstanding. One of my best touring trips ever. I highly recommend Sawback and Tom Wolfe.
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