Mt Whitewater canyon trail

Summer Hike: 1 hour to Whitewater Canyon for bear viewing, another hour to campsites and a further hour to end of Trail at Mine, Moraine and Glacier. 2 hours out from end of trail. Moderate elevation gain.

Description: This trail provides access to Whitewater Glacier which is surrounded by an open glaciated landscape of small streams and small puddle-like lakes. It is a very scenic area and provides excellent recreational opportunities. Remains from past mining activities, and an old flume used to divert water, are located near the pass. Watch for mountain goats along the ridges, and be alert for grizzly bears feeding on open alpine slopes. Primary activities are hiking, viewing, camping and mountaineering. High grizzly use area, stay alert.

Driving Directions:Head west from Kaslo on highway #31A for 28.6 km (measured from downtown Kaslo) to the old settlement of Rettallack. Turn right at the old townsite (keeping left for the first 100 m or so) and then turn right again at 0.3 km. Stay on the well-travelled portion of this road for 1.1 km to the Lyle Creek junction. Follow the left fork of the road for 2.2 km to a road on the right and take this for 0.5 km to a small parking area. This last section of the road is very narrow. You may wish to leave your vehicle at the wide area near the last junction. The trail starts 25 m past the parking area up an old road. Suitable for 2wd high clearance vehicles, although 4wd recommended.

Also somewhat popular in the winter for ski touring, particularly in the early season when the slopes above the summer parking area are great tree skiing. Lots of options for more adventure in the upper basin. Snowmobile to access logging road helpful.

Accommodation Options:

More New Denver Alpine Hikes: 

More Ski Touring in the area: