[MCR] Purcells, Dogtooth Range

[Public Mountain Conditions Report]

Purcell Mountains / Dogtooth Range Traverse

 

19 -22 September 2015

 

Route is near Golden, BC. 

 

NTS Map 82N06 Blaeberry

 

Our route began at Quartz Lake Trail and traversed the range through Cirque,
Lang, & Gorman headwaters to the Holt Creek Drainage.  Access was via Quartz
Lake Forest Service Road which begins off TransCanada, 40km west of Golden
BC. Watch for the trailhead at the 5km mark on the road, small parking area
at bridge. Quartz is an active logging road at the moment, so radio callouts
are strongly recommended during road travel.  A high clearance vehicle was
used but 4- wheel-drive was not necessary at the time. Our exit was via
helicopter in the alpine zone in Holt Creek Drainage. An alternate exit was
planned via Gorman Lake Trail down to Gorman Lake Forest Service Road.

 

Over the course of the trip the temperatures ranged from -4 to +15. During
the first 2 days of our trip the Purcells received a considerable amount of
rain that was ongoing for a 36 hour period, with a total of 30mm of
precipitation. The freezing level was around the 2200m mark, making travel
on frozen north slopes difficult. Southern slopes, were warmer and became
muddy mid-day. We were surprised to see several rockfall occurrences, large
and small, within all drainages on all aspects. As well, there was evidence
of a snow avalanche on a north east facing slope, where snow had been
previously loaded. Examples of frost heaving were evident in high meadows as
well as frozen ground, making for slower travel. All these factors
contributed to difficult and hazardous travel conditions throughout the
entire Dogtooth Range.

 

Trip Advice

 

The Dogtooth Range Traverse is a beautiful trip with plenty of alpine
camping opportunities.  The route passes by many pristine lakes, tarns
waterfalls and high alpine passes.

 

This is an advanced trip for experienced hikers due to long stretches of
difficult terrain, challenging route finding and exposure to weather. Solid
footwear, a hiking pole, and quality raingear is highly recommended.  

 

The Dogtooth Range in September offers a broad spectrum of weather requiring
careful preparation in order to stay comfortable and safe.  Predominant
September weather patterns are rain and snow, hence travellers should be
prepared with equipment and clothing in anticipation of winter and wet
conditions.  Low valley fog creates limited visibility making navigation
that much more difficult.  

 

This trip can be done in either direction with multiple variations through
different drainages and cols.  A traverse finishing at Kicking Horse
Mountain Resort is another great option. (Take note the gondola is closed
during the week if you wish to use this service).

 

Highlights included wildlife sightings such as marmots and various tracks.
There were great views of Quartz and Gorman Lakes from above. 

 

Happy Trails,

CMSG Hiking Guide Exam Candidates

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