Canyon Creek Ice Cave Trail (Microspikes Mandatory)

Trail Name: Canyon Creek Ice Cave Trail (Click the link for the AllTrails route.)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead meet-up time: Sunday, March 22 at 9:00am
Location: Canyon Creek Ice Cave Trail Parking Lot (Click the link for the parking lot location.)

NOTE: *Microspikes mandatory* - Expecting some icy sections on the trail.

NOTE: *Headlamps* - Headlamp highly recommended for anyone wanting to go into the cave.

NOTE: Hike Difficulty - Moderate - The majority of the hike is walking on a gradual road. There will be some steeper sections on the ascent from the road to the ice caves, and some minor rock steps to scramble up near the entrance of the cave.

NOTE: Weather and Hike Day - All hikes are subject to being moved to a different day, depending on the weather and avalanche conditions.

Avalanche risk remains high due to intense winds and wet snow/rain this week. We have not visited the Canyon Creek Ice Cave in a few years - let's go and check it out!

Weather: To be updated as we get closer to the hike day (usually 2 days before the hike day).

Trail Details
Distance: Approx. 13 km (Out-and-Back)
Elevation gain: Approx. 450 meters
Time: Approx. 4.5 hours

Trail Description: From the parking lot, our hike begins with a 5.5km walk along a closed road. We eventually reach a turnoff that takes us up the side of the mountain to the Ice Caves. The climb to the cave is steep in some parts - we will take as many breaks as needed during the climb. The base of the cave also has some rock bands that require some light scrambling. Once at the cave entrance, we will take a snack break, and then head inside to explore. The cave itself is not too big (approx. 200m long). After exploring the cave, we will descend and walk back to the parking lot.

MANDATORY GEAR:
- microspikes

RECOMMENDED GEAR & SUPPLIES

• headlamp - very important to safely navigate inside the cave
  - hiking poles - useful on the ascent and descent from the cave
  - gaiters - to keep snow out of your boots
  · appropriate clothing / layers - Early spring - carry layers so you can remove and add layers as needed. No cotton, no jeans. Wool clothing is recommended - wool keeps your body warm and keeps moisture away from your skin.
  · personal first aid kit
  · snacks/lunch
  . water/warm drink

Suggested Ride Sharing Point:
Petro-Canada off Highway 1 and Highway 22. Please post below in the discussion if a ride-share is needed.

Suggested rideshare fee for this hike: $15

Look forward to seeing you all out there!