8812 North Face

8812 sits above Connaught Creek in Rogers Pass, within Glacier National Park, and is accessed via the standard Bruins Ridge / 8812 Bowl approach from the Balu Pass trail corridor. From the Discovery Centre parking, follow the Balu Pass trail into Connaught Creek, then branch toward Hospital Gully and Bruins Ridge, using the established uptrack that leads toward the 8812 col and bowl area.

The north side offers glaciated alpine terrain with a more shaded aspect than the popular south-facing 8812 Bowl, and is typically used as a higher, colder option or as part of bigger linkups. Expect exposed sections along Bruins Ridge and on the final summit ramp, with wind-affected snow and potential for hard surfaces that can justify ski crampons or booting. Terrain is firmly in the advanced / complex category; route-finding and group management matter once you leave the main bowl.

A scenic, glacier-style summit tour that often becomes the access backbone for bigger plans. The final bit to the top can feel short, steep, and more exposed than the rest. Solid stand-alone day in stable conditions, or a gateway into steeper south-side lines.