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bow yoho ski traverse

Bow-Yoho Ski Traverse: 5-Day Hut-to-Hut Tour in the Canadian Rockies

5 days | Moderate to Challenging | 5.00
From $1,758 ()
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If you want to see the Canadian Rockies from the inside, the Bow-Yoho is hard to beat. Over five days, we ski hut to hut from Bow Lake to the Yoho Valley, crossing the Continental Divide and three icefields: the Wapta, Yoho, and Des Poilus. Each night we settle into a cozy Alpine Club of Canada hut. Since we’re not hauling tents and stoves, there’s energy left for the fun part: summit pushes and powder runs. The route starts with the famous Wapta Traverse, then breaks off onto a more committing and much less busy line. You’ll finish the trip having crossed from Banff into Yoho on skis.

Monte
Monte
ACMG/IFMGA Mountain Guide

Adventure Highlights

  • The classic Canadian traverse: Five days across the Wapta Icefield, linking Banff and Yoho national parks on skis or a splitboard
  • Summits along the way: A ski ascent of Mont des Poilus and a 500 m (1,640 ft) powder run back down, with more peaks on offer if the group has the legs
  • Hut-to-hut, no camping: Sleep in Alpine Club of Canada huts built in 1939, 1989, and 2015 as we cross the Continental Divide
Duration
5 days
Season
March through May
Group size
Up to 6 people
Accommodation
Standard: Alpine huts
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging: For experienced ski tourers, great fitness required to travel 5-8 hours a day on skis or splitboard with a 14-16 kg (30-35 lb) pack
What's included
Guide, hut lodging, breakfasts and dinners, park backcountry fees, rental avalanche and glacier kit, and more

The adventure, day by day

This is a five-day hut-to-hut traverse, with an optional pre-trip meeting in Canmore the day before for an equipment check, rental gear, and a run-through of the plan. We start at Bow Lake and ski about 8 km (5 mi) up to Bow Hut, then cross the Wapta Icefield on rope to the Guy Hut. A full day there gives us Mont des Poilus and whatever else conditions allow. From there we head over Isolated Col, or around the Whaleback if the snowpack says otherwise, down to the Stanley Mitchell Hut. The last day is a long, relaxed ski out. Breakfasts, dinners, hut nights, and park fees are covered.

Day 0: Optional pre-trip meeting in Canmore
Ski tracks across a snowy glacier toward dark peaks with the sun starburst above the ridge in British Columbia

Arrive in Canmore, about an hour from Calgary International Airport and conveniently on the way to the start of the traverse, for an optional get-together in the afternoon or early evening. Over the course of the meeting, your guide runs through the itinerary, checks everyone’s equipment, and hands out rental gear (if you need it), food, and group kit. If there’s time and the whole group has made it, there’s an avalanche safety exercise too, which means a quicker start the following morning. An airport shuttle and hotel can be arranged if needed.

Day 1: Drive to Bow Lake and ski in to Bow Hut
Lit mountain hut with glowing windows in deep snow under a bright moon and a rocky snow-covered peak in British Columbia

We drive the scenic Trans-Canada Highway from Canmore to Lake Louise, then head north on the world-famous Icefields Parkway toward Jasper until we reach Bow Lake, roughly 120 km (75 mi) and 1.5 hours away. Skis on, and we’re off across the frozen lake, one of the postcard images of the Canadian Rockies. A trail through the trees and a narrow canyon lead us into a broad, glacier-ringed valley, and a final slope brings us up to Bow Hut at 2,350 m (7,700 ft). The approach usually takes 3-5 hours depending on conditions, so if you’ve still got gas in the tank, there may be time for a few turns above the hut before dinner.

Meals: Dinner
Distance: 8 km (5 mi)
Elevation: +400 m (+1,312 ft)
Accommodation: Bow Hut

Day 2: Across the Wapta Icefield to the Guy Hut
Wooden mountain hut with covered porch on a snowy slope beneath a clear sky and snow-covered peaks in British Columbia

Today we link Bow Hut to the Guy Hut, 12 km (7.5 mi) with about 820 m (2,690 ft) of climbing. Glacier travel harnesses and a rope come out for much of the 5-7 hours this stretch takes. On a blue-sky day there’s nowhere better than high on the Wapta Icefield, passing between beautiful peaks with mountains stacked up as far as you can see. If the weather turns, we just lean into the adventure of it and keep moving toward the hut.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi)
Elevation: +820 m (+2,690 ft)
Accommodation: Guy Hut

Day 3: Ski ascent of Mont des Poilus
Skis stuck upright in snow beside a tent at dusk, with a sunlit pink slope above a dark snowfield in British Columbia

Today we stay close to the brand new, state-of-the-art Guy Hut and make the most of the terrain around it. Our main objective is Mont des Poilus at 3,166 m (10,385 ft), one of the highest peaks in the area and a sought-after ski mountaineering ascent. We skin to just below the summit and bootpack the last few metres, then drop into an unbroken 500 m (1,640 ft) run back to the base that usually serves up fantastic powder. Got legs left? We can lap it again or pick one of the many other nearby lines before heading back to the hut for dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Guy Hut

Day 4: Over Isolated Col to the Stanley Mitchell Hut
Log cabin with snow-laden roofs and icicles in deep snow, surrounded by snowy evergreen forest in British Columbia

If conditions line up, we drop from the Guy Hut onto the des Poilus Glacier, cross it, and climb the steep 300 m (1,000 ft) slope up to Isolated Col. The views from the top take in Little Yoho Valley, the Vice President, the President, and plenty more fine peaks before we ski a great run toward the valley. With time and good snow, we can leave the heavy packs behind and tag Mt. McArthur, 600 m (1,969 ft) above us. A 900 m (2,953 ft) descent then brings us down to the historic Stanley Mitchell Hut. If avalanche conditions or visibility rule out the Col, we take the more conservative line around Whaleback Mountain instead. Afternoon laps are an option for anyone still keen.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Elevation: +300 m (+1,000 ft) / -900 m (-2,953 ft)
Accommodation: Stanley Mitchell Hut

Day 5: Ski out to the Trans-Canada Highway or Emerald Lake
Three ski tourers skinning up a snowy ridge with a wide snow slope and distant peaks behind in British Columbia

Two ways to finish, and the snow decides which one. Skiing out to the Trans-Canada Highway means losing about 750 m (2,460 ft) of elevation over 23 km (14 mi), with the last 16 km (10 mi) along the summer road to Takakkaw Falls, a stretch that usually clicks by fast. It’s a relaxed end to a big trip. The other option is Emerald Lake via Emerald Pass or Yoho Pass, which needs good avalanche conditions, good visibility, and plenty of energy and enthusiasm left in the group. If we can take one of those exits, it makes for an exciting last day on skis.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 23 km (14 mi)
Elevation: -750 m (-2,460 ft)

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Monte
5.00
Monte
ACMG/IFMGA Mountain Guide
Monte is an ACMG/IFMGA Mountain Guide based in Squamish, BC, leading clients through skiing, mountaineering, and climbing year-round. With an engineering degree in his back pocket, he traded the desk life for the mountains full-time — and never looked back. Beyond guiding, he works in avalanche forecasting and film safety, bringing deep technical expertise to everything he does. Monte has explored peaks and slopes across six continents, from Patagonia and Japan to Kenya, Oman, and the Canadian Rockies, with India, Russia, and China already on the horizon. A self-confessed gear junkie, he genuinely loves pushing equipment to its limits and sharing honest, hard-won opinions on what works in the real world.
Hayden
5.00
Hayden
ACMG Ski Guide, CAA Avalanche Practitioner
After earning a degree in Criminal Justice, Hayden realized policing wasn’t the path for him. Instead, he moved to Japan to teach English—and in the process, discovered ski guiding. For the past nine years, he’s turned that passion into a career, starting in Hokkaido and expanding his guiding to Pakistan, the Alps, and closer to his current home in Squamish. A lifelong traveler, Hayden now spends half the year living out of a duffel bag, chasing snow and adventure around the world.
Eric
5.00
Eric
ACMG Ski Guide, ACMG Apprentice Rock Guide, CAA Avalanche Professional
Eric is an ACMG Ski Guide, Professional Member of the Canadian Avalanche Association, and Apprentice Rock Guide based in Revelstoke, where he’s spent the past 17 winters exploring the legendary Rogers Pass and surrounding terrain. His guiding and climbing experience extends to the Saint Elias Range, Coast Mountains, Canadian Rockies, and Sierra Nevada. Known for his enthusiasm, deep knowledge, and commitment to going the extra mile, Eric is passionate about creating exceptional experiences for his guests—and can’t wait to share his love of the mountains with you.
Bram
5.00
Bram
ACMG Ski Guide, CAA Practitioner CSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor
Bram is a California native whose love for the mountains has taken him around the globe. He’s spent seasons skiing across the U.S., Canada, France, and New Zealand, always chasing deep snow, rugged peaks, and great food and beer. Passionate about helping others reach their goals, he splits his winters between guiding in the Sea to Sky and at Last Frontier Heliskiing. In summer, he’s back in Squamish, BC—working in tech, climbing, skiing, and enjoying life with his son.
Drew
5.00
Drew
ACMG Apprentice Ski Guide, ACMG Alpine Guide, CAA Avalanche Practitioner
Drew has been a passionate climber, skier, splitboarder, and all-around mountain enthusiast for decades. His first visit to Squamish, BC in 2008 left him captivated by the dramatic landscapes, deep powder, and endless granite walls—he was hooked for life. Soon after, he made the West Coast his permanent home. Years of climbing and sharing his passion with others naturally led him to guiding. From long multi-pitch routes and alpine summits to heli-skiing, touring, and instructional courses, Drew is excited to craft each mountain adventure around his guests’ goals and dreams.
Chris
5.00
Chris
ACMG/IFMGA Mountain Guide, CAA Avalanche Professional
Chris brings over three decades of mountain experience and a deep well of knowledge to every adventure. His career has spanned outdoor education, ski patrol, cat and heli guiding, touring, ice and rock climbing, mountaineering, and film safety rigging. From ski descents in Japan and the Alps to multiple ascents of Mt. Waddington, his journey began in BC’s Coast Range and was shaped in the Strathcona Alps. Now based in Squamish, Chris specializes in mountain rescue training and plays a key role in developing helicopter rescue with TEAAM.
Brian
5.00
Brian
ACMG Apprentice Alpine Guide, ACMG Apprentice Rock Guide, CAA Avalanche Practitioner
Based in Squamish, BC, Brian is a passionate, energetic guide with deep roots in the mountains of Western Canada. With years of experience as a climbing coach, guide, and instructor, he brings both technical skill and a warm, welcoming presence to every trip. Brian loves long ski traverses, alpine ridges, and splitter cracks—but what he enjoys most is connecting with people and sharing those magical moments that make mountain adventures unforgettable. Off-duty, you’ll find him reading, roaming, or hanging with his dogs.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)
D
Dan Dexter

Monte and Hayden led us on a 5 day ski touring trip and we had a great time. First off, they’re very competent and I fully trusted that they were making safe/smart decisions throughout the trip. As guides they took us into some awesome zones and were extremely considerate of everyone’s ski abilities and personal objectives. I’m already thinking about my next trip with them.

A
Adam Thompson

I’ve use Monte (head guide) for 2 seasons now for backcountry ski-touring. He’s very experienced, inspires confidence, and ensures you develop your skills as you go while feeling safe. He’s also highly capable of finding fine powder lines, great views, and good company to ski with. Can’t recommend him enough.

C
Colin N

I have been on a number of backcountry ski/ski mountaineering trips with Monte & the team over the past several years. These trips have included avalanche safety training (level 2), and multiple multi-day hut trips in some expert level terrain (such as the Tantalus range near Squamish, BC).

On all the trips Monte and his guides have displayed excellent professionalism, tuition, and decision making in the mountains.

In mixed ability groups, Monte will tailor the trip to all ability/fitness levels, ensuring everyone has a great time. Monte has also pushed me to tackle steeper terrain than I was used to skiing in the backcountry (both on the up and down).

I would not hesitate to go on more trips in Monte in future.

5.00(3 reviews)
D
Dan Dexter

Monte and Hayden led us on a 5 day ski touring trip and we had a great time. First off, they’re very competent and I fully trusted that they were making safe/smart decisions throughout the trip. As guides they took us into some awesome zones and were extremely considerate of everyone’s ski abilities and personal objectives. I’m already thinking about my next trip with them.

A
Adam Thompson

I’ve use Monte (head guide) for 2 seasons now for backcountry ski-touring. He’s very experienced, inspires confidence, and ensures you develop your skills as you go while feeling safe. He’s also highly capable of finding fine powder lines, great views, and good company to ski with. Can’t recommend him enough.

C
Colin N

I have been on a number of backcountry ski/ski mountaineering trips with Monte & the team over the past several years. These trips have included avalanche safety training (level 2), and multiple multi-day hut trips in some expert level terrain (such as the Tantalus range near Squamish, BC).

On all the trips Monte and his guides have displayed excellent professionalism, tuition, and decision making in the mountains.

In mixed ability groups, Monte will tailor the trip to all ability/fitness levels, ensuring everyone has a great time. Monte has also pushed me to tackle steeper terrain than I was used to skiing in the backcountry (both on the up and down).

I would not hesitate to go on more trips in Monte in future.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An ACMG/IFMGA certified ski guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 5-day ski traverse in Banff and Yoho National Parks (5 days of ski touring)
      • Accommodation for 4 nights in Alpine Club of Canada huts
      • Breakfasts and dinners while on the traverse
      • Pre-trip planning and support, including an optional pre-trip meeting in Canmore
      • Group safety equipment
      • Rental avalanche and glacier travel kit (transceiver, shovel, probe, harness, and two locking carabiners)
      • National park backcountry fees
      • A trip hat to take home

    Add-ons (can be arranged at an additional cost, leave a note at checkout if interested):

      • Rental of some personal equipment, such as skis, boots, and poles
      • Airport shuttle and a hotel night in Canmore before the trip

    Not included:

      • Transportation to Canada
      • Transportation to and from the trailhead
      • Lunches and snacks
      • Personal equipment (some rentals are available)
      • Extra days due to weather
      • Anything not mentioned in the ‘Included’ section above
      • Insurance — recommended, available at checkout
      • Guide gratuities — optional
  • In order to join this ski traverse, great fitness is required as well as intermediate skiing ability and previous ski touring experience. The most you’ll ski within a day is up to 23 km (14 mi), with up to 820 m (2,690 ft) of elevation gain.

    Expect to be moving 5-8 hours a day on skis or a splitboard while carrying a 14-16 kg (30-35 lb) pack, so comfort with long days in the backcountry matters more than speed. Glacier travel with a harness and rope is part of the route, and several days offer optional summits if the group still has energy. Splitboarders are welcome, though it takes a bit more effort and practice, so you should be confident making quick transitions on rolling, low-angle terrain.

    Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover our collection of backcountry skiing adventures in British Columbia!

  • Previous ski touring experience is required for this traverse. Most of the route is glacier travel, and the days are long with heavy packs, so you should already be comfortable skinning uphill, making transitions, and skiing ungroomed terrain with a pack on.

  • Liability waivers are a standard part of all guided outdoor adventures. Recently, the requirements have become a bit more rigorous for ACMG guides—meaning that you’ll need to agree to the signing of the waiver at the time of booking.

    Prior to booking, we ask you to review the waiver. During the checkout process, you’ll have to acknowledge the risks and agree to the signing of the waiver. You are required to bring a printed copy on the trip.

    Please note that signing and agreeing to the terms of the waiver is required in order to join this adventure. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us prior to booking.

  • Safety equipment (available from your guides at no cost)

      • Avalanche transceiver (3-antenna digital)
      • Avalanche probe
      • Lightweight snow shovel
      • Glacier travel harness
      • 2 locking carabiners

    Snow gear

      • Alpine touring skis or a splitboard, with boots
      • Climbing skins, pre-cut for your skis
      • Ski crampons
      • Collapsible, lightweight poles

    Clothing

      • Gore-Tex shell jacket with hood
      • Gore-Tex ski pants
      • Wool or synthetic base layers, top and bottom
      • Insulated mid-layer jacket
      • Synthetic or wool underwear/bra
      • 2 pairs of gloves (lightweight and heavier weight)
      • Scarf or neck gaiter (e.g., Buff)
      • 2 pairs of synthetic or wool socks
      • Wool or fleece beanie
      • Sun hat
      • Ski goggles with high UV protection

    Personal items & essentials

      • Large backpack (around 50–70L)
      • Sunglasses with high UV protection
      • Sunscreen and lip protection with high SPF
      • Water bottle or thermos (1–1.5L)
      • Headlamp with spare battery
      • Lunch and snacks
      • Personal first aid kit and toiletry bag
      • Health and travel insurance documents
      • Light stuff sacks or bags to keep your backpack organized
      • Rain cover for your pack or a large plastic bag
      • Hand sanitizer or sanitary wipes
      • Battery pack and cord — optional

    Hut essentials

      • Spare underwear, socks, and shirt
      • Three-season sleeping bag with stuff sack (sleeping rooms are unheated)
      • Inflatable pillow — optional
      • Earplugs — optional
      • Light hut slippers or Crocs — optional

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. Between March and May, daytime temperatures can climb above freezing, while nights can drop to around -10°C (14°F), so layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

    Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!

  • Absolutely. It does take a little more energy and practice, though, so you’ll want to be experienced with your splitboard setup and ready to make quick transitions on rolling or low-angle terrain.

  • One of the great things about this traverse is that it can typically still be done during elevated avalanche hazard conditions. The main area of concern is getting over Isolated Col, and your guides can take a more conservative, though longer, route around the Whaleback to avoid it.

  • Group sizes and pricing:

      • Solo skiers are welcome to sign up. Groups are often made up of people who don’t know one another before the trip and become friends along the way.
      • The maximum group size is set at 6 participants.
      • Ski traverses can be arranged for larger groups — contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements:

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the ski traverse on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
      • If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
  • A single occupancy room is not available on this Bow-Yoho Ski Traverse. The nights are spent in alpine huts with shared, unheated sleeping rooms, so private rooms aren’t an option.

    If you’re a solo traveler, you’re more than welcome to join. Groups are often made up of people who don’t know one another before the trip and become friends along the way.

  • The starting point of your Bow-Yoho ski traverse is Canmore, Alberta. To get there, most people fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), about an hour away. From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Canmore. Your guides can also help arrange an airport shuttle and hotel if needed.

    You will meet your guide in the afternoon or early evening the day before the trip in Canmore for an optional pre-trip meeting.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

    • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
    • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
    • If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
    • Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48 hours grace period.
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