Smutwood Peak (Light Scrambling) (Cool Weather Expected)
Details
Trail Name: Smutwood Peak Trail (Click the link for the AllTrails Route.)
Difficulty: Hard
Trailhead meet-up time: Sunday, September 28 at 8:30am
Location: Smutwood Peak Trailhead (Click the link for the parking lot location.)
NOTE: **Attendance** - A waitlist has been created. I will admit attendees at my own discretion. Your answer to the hike question will be considered. Due to overcrowding on the trail, I am aiming for a smaller group - up to 10 people, including myself.
NOTE: Hike Day - All hike dates are subject to change depending on the weather.
NOTE: Difficulty - This is a Hard hike. The approach through the valley to the Birdwood Lakes is quite gradual and relaxing - it does tend to be muddy in fall season due to heavy traffic. The Smutwood Peak ridge itself is steep with loose rocks and exposure on climber's right - some light scrambling but mainly a walk.
High winds and cold weather are in the forecast for the coming weekend - therefore, I have chosen a lower objective. Smutwood Peak is a minor summit south of Mount Smuts that offers amazing views of the Birdwood Lakes and the surrounding valley. I put off this hike for a while due to the fall season crowds, but we might as well check it out this year!
Trail Details
Distance: Approx. 19 km (Out-and-Back)
Elevation gain: Approx. 990 meters
Time: Approx. 8 hours (including breaks)
Trail Description:
From the parking lot, our day starts with a gentle walk along the snowshoeing/cross country ski road for about 3 km. The trail then turns climber's right to follow Commonwealth Creek up the valley. Another 3.5 km up the valley, we will arrive to the plateau with the Birdwood Lakes in sight. From this plateau, we will gain the Smutwood Peak ridge and follow the ridge all the way to the summit. We will take care as we ascend to avoid kicking down loose rocks. We will enjoy the views from the summit and retrace our steps to the parking lot.
RECOMMENDED GEAR & SUPPLIES
- hiking poles - trail is quite gradual but you might find them useful for steeper sections
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- hat/cap
- gloves/toque - cooler temperatures, especially in the morning
· Clothing - Mid Fall - Lighter wool clothing is still recommended along with a light or medium jacket/windbreaker. Jeans are not good.
· personal first aid kit
· snacks/lunch
. water/warm drink (recommend 2 litres of water) - Commonwealth Creek is the main water source, water filters can be handy. I can also give refills with my water filter.
Ride Sharing:
Suggested Ridge Sharing Spot: Petro-Can at the corner of Highway 1 and Highway 22.
Suggested Ride Sharing Fee: $20
Join us for a hike in this beautiful valley with amazing views at the top!