Whitewater Canyon Group Hike Postponed to Sept 21

The hike to Whitewater Canyon has been postponed to Sunday Sept 21 due to the air quality forecast

Join us for a hike up spectacular Whitewater Canyon, located near Retallack Lodge on Highway 31A to Kaslo, on Sunday, September 21. This is a moderate to difficult hike which may be done in two parts, depending on fitness and ambition. An old backcountry campground and creek crossing at 4 km and a 400 m climb from the trailhead is a good place to stop for a rest for those who choose not to continue. A switchbacking climb up a steep slope leads to a higher canyon overview a further 1.3 km and 270 m elevation gain along the trail. The group hike will end here at 5.3 km and a 670 m elevation gain from the trailhead. Individuals with their own transportation may continue on their own for 1 km or more to a high tarn or further. Scrambling and route finding required! The hike from the trailhead to the campground is of moderate difficulty with a final climb and traverse of a boulder and scree slope before reaching the verdant hanging valley and creek crossing. The climb from the campground to the canyon overview beyond is more difficult, exposed and steep, although well within the capability of a reasonably fit hiker.

For those joining from the Arrow Lakes valley, we will meet at Mountain Top Cafe in Nakusp at 8 am to sort rides and vehicles. We can make other rendezvous arrangements for those  joining from elsewhere, like the Slocan Valley.

Hiking distance TH to campground – 4 km one way 400 m gain (optional stop and wait)

Hiking distance TH to canyon overview – 5.3 km one way 670 m gain

Driving Distance Pavement to Retallack Turnoff – 66 km

Driving Distance Retallack Turnoff gravel FSR – 4.2 km

Vehicle Required – AWD SUV or truck

Water for filtering – available at campground

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!