Pulpit 1 Knob: South Aspect

Traditionally referred to as Pulpit Knob, this area has become an extremely popular location with skiers over the years. Often the runs will be “tracked out” after the weekend crowd gets to them but luckily this zone refreshes quickly from snow blowing off the Waputik Icefield found to the west. The main draw here is the perfectly angled open glades on the South Aspect but you’ll often meet more than a couple of parties lapping the East Chutes or using them as their preferred exit run.

Parking Style: Roadside or Hector Lake viewpoint

Pulpit 1 South Aspect

A classic run which often has great snow. The main attraction is the wide open glade area on the skier’s left of the south aspect but the trees skiing to the skier’s right can also provide some great runs. Lower down on this aspect you will find a number of cliffs and pillow areas, most are great fun while some may provide slightly larger drops than most will want to try.

Vertical: 450m access, 200m runs.

Distance: 4.5km access, 0.4km runs.

Directions: The shortest access is found by parking roadside at the Hector Lake summer trailhead, from the Parks Canada gate at the start of 93N drive about 16.5km and park roadside. In the summer there is a small parking lot here but it is not plowed in winter. The other option for parking is to drive 1km further north to arrive at the Hector Lake viewpoint, this provides you with better parking but adds about 15 minutes to your access time. From the roadside parking area follow the fairly obvious cut summer trail all the way to Bow River where you will find a trail sign. If you parked at Hector Lake viewpoint then head down and skier’s left in the forest to reach the Bow River and ultimately the same point where the summer trail meets the river. Head downstream (left) along the riverbank until you reach Hector Lake. Cross the lake heading towards the southern shore and begin working your way up the forest slope heading southwest. After about 150m vertical gained from the lake the trees will start to open up and you should find yourself below the south aspect. Follow the south-east ridge working slight benches to gain the top of Pulpit 1 Knob. From here you have several options for runs with the most obvious being the large open area directly south from the top. Other options include skiing back down the south-east ridge or heading into the thicker glades to the west. To lap simply regain your skin track or to exit follow your uptrack back to Hector Lake and the road.