Bow Yoho Traverse

The Bow-Yoho Traverse is more than a ski route — it's a journey through some of the Rockies' most legendary terrain, a rugged journey through some vast terrain. It is best done by staying in the excellent huts along the route (booked through the Alpine Club of Canada), but if the huts are booked up, those with a tolerance for carrying heavy packs can do it by staying in tents. Like the nearby Wapta Traverse, extending this trip by staying an extra night or two in some or all of the huts is a great option. 

The trip begins at the frozen expanse of Bow Lake, where the towering ramparts of the Wapta Icefield loom on the horizon. Skate across the lake's windswept surface before threading their way up a narrow canyon, gradually climbing through snow-laden forest and frozen waterfalls toward the alpine. The Bow Hut emerges on a bench high above the treeline, tucked beneath the imposing flanks of Mount Gordon - a welcome shelter and a gateway to the glaciated wilderness beyond.

From here, the route ascends steadily onto the Wapta Icefield itself - a vast expanse of snow and ice. (Some choose to climb Mount Gordon, a panoramic high point with sweeping views that reach to the Columbia Icefield and beyond, but this does add a lot to the day and is better done as a return day trip from the Bow Hut.) Head west across this and make the loooong and gradual climb up towards Mount Collie. It's possible to tag the summit of Collie in the highly improbable event you're keen for some more skinning! 

From beneath Collie, head due south and follow a spectacular, broad ridge that undulates and then drops down to Guy Hut. Even by the standards of mountain huts, the Guy Hut is utterly spectacular and enjoys an epic view of Mont des Poilus. Taking an extra day or two to tour from the Guy Hut is highly recommended, for the views, if nothing else.

The final chapter of the traverse is perhaps its most spectacular: a long ascent and then descent through the icefall-laced Isolated Col and down into the Little Yoho Valley, where the Stanley Mitchell Hut awaits. Tagging Mount McArthur is an option if the weather is good, but this is an adventurous and exciting day even without any detours.

As you ski beneath towering limestone walls and past ice-choked gullies, the terrain softens and the Iceline Trail begins to take shape — a high alpine shelf with unparalleled views across the Vice President range and Yoho's glacial giants. Alternatively, if the weather and conditions aren't suitable for the Iceline, follow the Yoho Valley road out. The descent winds past frozen tarns and larch-filled basins, eventually dropping to Takakkaw Falls, where the roar of meltwater signals the return to the world below.