Saddle Mountain Group Hike August 24

Join us for a group hike from the Upper Parking Lot to the Saddle Mountain Lookout and summit on Sunday August 24. This is a moderate to difficult hike, approximately 4 km for a steady uphill climb or 8 km return, with a 650 m elevation gain for a 16% overall grade. We will take our time with rest stops along the way, but hikers should be fit and used to walking up steep slopes. The final 100 m or so of vertical gain is up and over large boulders and the rocky shoulder of the summit pinnacle. While non-technical and easy enough to climb safely, it is exposed and not for people with acrophobia. There is a nice spot at the base of the summit pinnacle for those who choose not to go farther to wait for the return. The hike will be postponed or cancelled if the weather forecast is for very hot sunny conditions, or a risk of thunderstorms or rain. We will meet in Nakusp at Mountain Top Cafe on Broadway to sort out rides and to drive to the trailhead together. An AWD SUV or truck is required to drive to the Saddle Mountain Upper parking lot. There isn’t any water available on the trail so bring enough for the entire day.

Hiking Distance – 8 km return

Elevation gain – 650 m

Driving Distance on Pavement and ferry from Cafe to Arrow Park – 23 km

Driving distance gravel and FSR from Arrow Park to Trailhead – 19 km

Vehicle Required – AWD or 4wd with reasonable ground clearance

What to bring – good boots and poles, outwear suitable for forecast conditions, bear spray, mosquito repellent, sun screen, sun glasses, a hat, a good lunch and enough water for the day. Even on a nice day it can be cold and windy at the summit!