Google Map

Rockies :: Banff-Louise :: Mt. Richardson

GPS Track

Terrific view of Mt. Richardson (upper left) and Pika Peak (upper right) from Hidden Lake

October 2, 2020

Mt. Richardson is favorite Skoki scramble.  Trip is best done as Autumn golden larch hike.  Technically the ascent is mostly off-trail hiking but summit is over 3000m and cumulative elevation gain is significant.  Only difficulty is steep grass/talus slope above Hidden Lake.   Winter ascent in stable compact snow conditions has been done.  Optional return via steep drop to saddle below Pika Peak is mountaineering, and despite being mentioned in Kane scrambles book should be avoided.  Trip is feasible as day out-and-back hike from Fish Creek parking, or as overnight trip from Hidden Lake campground 'base camp'.

Initial part is standard Skoki approach via Temple access road, followed by hike to Halfway Hut junction (1.5 hr of fast pace on foot, less if cycling or hitching a ride).  Continue left to Hidden Lake past SK5 official Parks Canada backcountry campground and follow trail to west side where it ends on grassy terrace.  Goal is to scramble ridge above;  there are many ways to do it, and generally staying left is easier - but do not go too far left, as it will necessitate some moderate scrambling along rotten ridge crest to rejoin normal route.   Use GPS track if in doubt:  aim for Waypoint 4 - Richardson Ride.  Once on the ridge cairned trail develops and leads easily over couple of bumps, then contours on climber left before emerging to flat bench below summit block.  Number of trails lead up and only difficulty is crumbling rock band in upper part.  Aim for climber left and scramble easily, finishing with good trail that zig-zags to summit plateau.  Large cairn / wind shelter is NOT the summit (although most people probably turn back right here!).  Continue instead for another 5 minutes to north end, taking care at narrow part -- it drops steeply on west side, while east side is glaciated. Despite benign appearance fatality has occurred here one summer in whiteout conditions.  Views are fantastic but main prize is spectacular Merlin Lake deep below under Wall of Jericho.   Many eastern BNP Peaks are visible, including several 11000 ft prizes (Willingdon, Recondite).   Return back to Hidden Lake the same way, and not via Pika saddle.

Gallery