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Sawback Trail :: Mystic Pass

GPS Track

Mystic Pass is 1 of 3 Sawback Range alpine passes.  While Pulsatilla and Badger are higher, I found Mystic to be the most beautiful.  Typically used as Forty Mile - Johnston Creek Valleys Crossover, but also feasible as long day out-and-back hike from Moose Meadows on Hwy1A, which is how I did it in early July '24.  Abstract stats are posted from Larry's Camp (JO9) Campground.  

From JO9 junction Mystic Pass trail basically follows Mystic Creek upstream to the Pass.  There are several crossings, first ~0.9km in, and all are bridged.  While mostly below tree cover, going is still fairly scenic including open boulder field below Mystic Peak north side (see Gallery).  Final climb to the Pass is somewhat steep as trail switchbacks up the Headwall and likely bit of grunt with overnight pack. Trail traversing classic Rockies meadow, culminating at 2285m highpoint (cairn),  is simply wonderful deserving further exploration.  Even if passing through, i.e on classic Sawback Loop,  do drop heavy packs and scramble up lower Mystic Ridge at south side of the Pass for outstanding views.

From Mystic Pass trail descends for 15-20m to treeline, then reaches Mystic Lake trail ~2.5km from the Pass.  It is also possible to do 1-way crossover between Moose Meadows and Mt. Norquay long day hike as Forty Mile Creek valley is well suited for fast travel.  This would likely appeal more to trail runners, but has been done by fit hikers too (~35km,  800m vertical).   In this case Norquay start is better option, as Mystic Pass trail is less steep on the east side.