Monthly Archives: September 2012

Stawamus Chief

 

This is another very popular hike. You can access the trailhead from the Sea to Sky Gondola area or from Shannon Falls Provincial Park. The trail starts out steep, kind of Grouse Grindish. There are 3 peaks to choose from and many people do them all, or just 2.

Distance: 4.6 km (return)
Low point: 64 m
High point: 686 m
Elevation gain: 622 m
Trailhead: 49° 40’ 45.5” by  123° 9’ 16.3” (Google Map)

Here’s the route…

A view of the Chief from Shannon Falls Provincial Park…

The Chief

Here’s a view from the top…

3rd Peak Stawamus Chief

Another view…

Stawamus chief hike

Me at the top…

3rd Peak Stawamus Chief

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Before heading out on your hike, make sure you are well prepared. This means, having the TEN ESSENTIALS. It is also important to leave a trip plan (route details and estimated return time) with someone you trust.

Bring your smartphone, fully charged and put it in airplane mode while hiking. I always bring back-up battery packs for extra piece of mind. It is highly recommended that you bring a GPS device; I use my smartphone with a GPS app (Backcountry Navigator). The GPS will work in airplane mode. Learn how to use it before your hike.

For anyone new to hiking, there is a rule to which hikers follow; it is called “Leave No Trace” or LNT. The concept is generally to pack out what you pack in and respect nature, so all future visitors can enjoy what you have enjoyed.
To learn more about LNT, please check out this BLOG by a certified LNT Trainer.

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