Comox Glacier Climb

As low as:

$1,170.00 / person

(at 2:1 ratio)
  • STRENUOUSNESS
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  • TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY
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Add-ons

Mountaineering Kit Rental $45.00

Ice Axe, Crampons, Helmet, Harness, Carabiners, Cords and Sling. All these items are required to participate in the course. See the precise technical gear requirements in the 'Gear List' tab within this course information webpage. Once purchased - our rentals are non-refundable.

About 


This three-day climb travels over two glaciers and covers some of the most impressive terrain in Strathcona Park. Straying from the standard route, we’ll access the summit by ascending through the hidden Kweishun Valley and up a rarely-climbed couloir. This climbers route is more technical and rarely used. You’ll enjoy a true wilderness experience, despite being on one of the most recognizable peaks in the area. 

Included in the price:

  • 3 days with an ACMG guide
  • Group technical gear

Not included in the price:

  • Transportation
  • Food
  • Clothing
  • Personal equipment ( technical gear available as rental add on)

Questions? Check out our FAQ page for details about our booking and cancellation policy, and other commonly asked questions.

Location 


The Kweishun Valley is accessed via Mosaic Forest company lands through which Island Alpine Guides have negotiated access. The trip finishes on the standard Comox Glacier Trail and as such requires a vehicle shuttle to start the trip.
 

Itinerary 


A typical day starts at 08:30 and ends around 16:30, but the pacing of this trip will be entirely dependent on the group, guide, weather and conditions. Below is a general idea of what to expect. 

  • Day 1 - Hike up the Kweishun Valley and spend your first night in the vicinity of Mirren Lake.
  • Day 2 -  Climb the snow couloir to just beside the summit of the Glacier and follow the normal route back down to camp at the frog pond.
  • Day 3 - Hike out. 

Exact meeting details will be provided in a pre-trip email sent one-week prior to your trip. 
 
Questions? Check out our FAQ page for details, or send us an email. 

Requirements


This route can be physically demanding and requires comfort with some exposure. To join this trip, we recommend that you: 

  • Have scrambling experience
  • Are comfortable gaining approximately 1200m vertical gain with a load of approximately 20kg 

Preparation

The best training for hiking and climbing is to go hiking and climbing. Regular hikes going up-hill with a load on will get you in shape for this trip. 

Questions about the suitability of this trip? Send us an email. We’re happy to help you find or customize trips to suit your needs.

Gear List

 
Temperatures on this trip could range from -5°C at night to around 25°C (+) during the day. Ensure all clothing and equipment are in good repair, and fitted properly to you:
 
Technical:
 
Available as a “Mountaineering Kit” rental add on ($45) when you book.
 
  • Helmet – UIAA approved and adjustable
  • 3x locking carabiners – at least one should be pear-shaped
  • 3x regular carabiners
  • Harness – a simple, lightweight alpine seat harness
  • Belay/rappel device
  • 7mm accessory cord – 2 x 5 meter lengths
  • Double shoulder length sewn sling – should be rated to 22kn
  • Crampons – simple, 10-point general mountaineering crampon (either step-in or strap- on are fine depending on your boots)
  • Ice axe – general mountaineering tool, 60-80cm depending on your height

Clothing:

  • Long underwear (top and bottom), poly-pro, wool or silk
  • Mid-weight jacket, wool, fleece, synthetic or down
  • Rain gear (jacket and pants)
  • Toque, wool or fleece
  • T-shirt or long-sleeved shirt (white or other light colour), synthetic
  • Lightweight hiking pants, nylon or similar
  • Gloves

Footwear:

  • Mountaineering boots (suitable for carrying a 30 lb. load over rough terrain) 
  • 2 x pairs of socks, wool or synthetic blend
  • 2 x pairs of liner socks, poly-pro or silk (optional)
  • Gaiters that fit your boots (optional)
  • Lightweight camp shoes (optional)

Sleeping:

  • Sleeping bag (warm to -5°C)
  • Therm-a-rest or other sleeping pad (available for rent)
  • 3-season tent (available for rent) or better yet, a very lightweight bivy shelter option.

Cooking:

  • Small cooking pot (available for rent)
  • Fuel canister (available for rent)
  • Stove (available for rent)
  • Lighter
  • 2 breakfast, 3 lunches (ready to eat), 2 dinner, various snacks. For tasty, nutritous and locally pre-made dinners check out https://wildedgeketo.com/
  • Eating vessel and utensils

Other:
 
  • Sun hat
  • Sunglasses with 100% UV block
  • Sunscreen, SPF lip balm
  • Toothbrush and a small container of toothpaste
  • 2 x 1 liter water bottles (or a 2L bladder)
  • Water purification system
  • Pocket knife
  • Head-lamp with spare batteries
  • Small first aid kit (optional)
  • Hiking poles (optional)
  • Camera (optional)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • 50L+ backpack with waist belt

Group Gear Logistics

Your guide will bring along group emergency (first aid, communications device) and technical gear (the rope, the rack). You are only required to bring the items on this list.

Rentals

 
The following items are available for rent as an “Add On” when you book (or upon request). These are available on a first come, first serve basis:

  • Mountaineering Kit - $45.00

If you require other items from the personal gear list such as mountaineering boots, you can check out Sports Rent based out of Victoria.

Questions? Send us an email or read our blog for advice on choosing appropriate gear. 

Testimonials

STOKED! Andy Burden, Victoria, BC.