7 Steps of Paradise

7 Steps of Paradise is a classic glaciated ski descent off Youngs Peak in the Asulkan Valley of Rogers Pass, within Glacier National Park of Canada. Most parties stage from the Asulkan Hut, then climb through the upper glacier and headwall to reach the summit cone before dropping the broad north-facing ramp and its seven rolling “steps” back toward the valley.

Terrain is big, open alpine with glaciated features and a series of convex rolls. Expect wind-affected snow, cross-loading around the upper ridge, and cornices along the Youngs Peak crest. Several steps run in the 30–35° range, with clear avalanche potential on the convexities and overhead hazard from the headwall above. Crevasses on the Asulkan Glacier and around the approach to the summit cone are a real concern in lean years or late season.

From the Asulkan Hut, you skin up through the Tree Triangle or upper Asulkan Valley, then gain the glacier and climb the headwall toward Youngs Peak, usually following an established skintrack when traffic is high. The ascent finishes with steeper, more exposed terrain near the summit cone before you traverse to the top of the line. The descent follows the obvious fall line down the seven rolls, then rejoins lower-angle glacier and valley terrain for a straightforward exit back toward the hut and trail.

This is advanced ski-mountaineering terrain: you need solid glacier travel skills, avalanche rescue competence, and good visibility for safe navigation. Watch for wind slabs on the convex rolls, manage spacing between partners, and be deliberate about regroup spots out of runout zones. Ideal timing is a stable mid-winter to early-spring snowpack with clear weather and low hazard; avoid the route in poor visibility or during active storm or warm-up cycles when the headwall and rolls are primed to slide.

Access, permits, and seasonal closures are managed by Parks Canada under the Rogers Pass winter permit system; check current area openings, avalanche control closures, and hut booking details before committing. Parks Canada – Glacier National Park