Hiking

Conrad Kain Hut: Length one-way, 5.0 km. 1.5-3 hours. Elevation change: 700 metres. This trail, which begins in the parking lot, follows the northern lateral moraine of Bugaboo Glacier. The trail is very steep and strenuous, with exposure to steep dropoffs as it climbs through granite bluffs. Extreme caution should be exercised along its route. Strong, reliable footwear is essential.

Cobalt Lake: Length one-way, 8.5km. Suggested hiking time, 2-4 hours. Elevation change: 800 metres. This trail, which begins along the park access road across from the CMH lodge, begins by climbing a series of steep switchbacks up an old skid road, followed by a nice trail through a forest of alpine larch trees. It eventually leads to an open alpine ridge with good views to Cobalt Lake and the Bugaboo Spires. To reach the lake, descend off the ridge to an alpine pass and contour under Northpost Spire to below the waterfalls draining Cobalt Lake. Bypass the waterfalls on the left to reach the meadows surrounding the lake. Note that the last 2 km to the lake requires routefinding skills as the trail is infrequently marked. The un-marked alpine traverse route between Cobalt Lake and the Conrad Kain Hut crosses talus slopes, snowfields, and a small but crevassed glacier. It should only be attempted by those with appropriate skills and experience.

Malloy Igloo: Length one-way, 13 km. Elevation change: 762 metres. This demanding mountaineering excursion begins at the Conrad Kain Hut (which is the starting point for many routes that lead to climbing destinations) and terminates at the Malloy Igloo, a small shelter with no amenities located near Osprey Peak. Only roped parties should attempt this route because several glaciers have to be crossed. Alternatively, access to the Malloy Igloo via Malloy Creek is also possible. For groups of mixed experience it poses several obstacles. It is recommended that you stay on the east side of the creek due to two formidable stream crossings, and gain access via a small, steep gully from which the crest of the moraine can be reached. The final headwall is easier in early summer (lots of snow), but may require roped climbing later in the season.

Please Note: For trail conditions, please check the Trail Updates link under the Attention Visitor section on the park page.

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