Sapphire Col Hut

Tiny, exposed bivy shelter perched on Sapphire Col between The Dome and Castor Peaks in Glacier National Park, BC. True alpine setting—glacier approach, frequent wind, and full winter conditions any month. Advanced mountaineering and glacier travel skills required; avalanche terrain throughout (ATES 3).

Amenities are minimal: four plywood sleeping berths, no heat, no stove, no fuel, no mattresses or bedding, and an outhouse toilet. Melt snow or use a nearby seasonal melt pond for water. Bring full overnight kit including stove and fuel, insulation, sleeping pad/bag, headlamps, repair kit, and emergency comms.

Approach from the Asulkan parking/Illecillewaet area: follow the Asulkan Valley trail, then climb via the Mousetrap and the Cleaver to gain the Asulkan Glacier. Navigate crevasses and overhead avalanche paths en route, then ascend to the col between The Dome and Castor. Whiteout navigation is common; teams should be dialed on glacier travel and hazard timing.

Reservations required through the Alpine Club of Canada; Parks Canada notes hut bookings are limited to short advance windows and the shelter is open year‑round. Expect self‑sufficient use; follow park closures and avalanche bulletins. Booking and hut details: alpineclubofcanada.ca.