Classic Wapta 4 day Traverse

Embark on the Classic Wapta Traverse, a four-day, three-night glacier adventure across the iconic Wapta Icefields. Designed for strong intermediate to advanced ski tourers and splitboarders, this hut-to-hut journey combines classic alpine descents, summit opportunities, and the comfort of alpine huts in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

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Classic Wapta Traverse

Four-Day Glacier Adventure Across the Wapta Icefields

Program Overview

Over four days, you will travel from Bow Lake to the Great Divide Lodge, crossing stunning glaciers and rugged alpine terrain. This classic route offers a true mountain experience, including summit climbs, long descents, and immersive glacier travel, while the alpine huts provide comfort without heavy camping gear.

Itinerary

Day 1: Bow Lake to Bow Hut

• Meet at the Lake Louise Alpine Centre for introductions, gear check, and group packing
• Depart mid-morning for the Bow Lake trailhead
• Ski to Bow Hut in the beautiful Bow Glacier Cirque, with optional peak ascents nearby
• Overnight at Bow Hut

Day 2: Bow & Vulture Glaciers to Balfour Hut

• Traverse across the Bow and Vulture Glaciers
• Opportunity to climb a peak or two along the route
• Arrive at Balfour Hut, nestled beneath the impressive slopes of Mt. Balfour
• Overnight at Balfour Hut

Day 3: Balfour High Col & Scott Duncan Hut

• Tackle the crux of the traverse: an ascent over the Balfour High Col
• Weather permitting, attempt a summit of Mt. Balfour (3,285 m)
• Continue on to Scott Duncan Hut, your final night on the icefields

Day 4: Final Day!

• Ski out from the Scott Duncan Hut to the Great Divide Lodge
• Bath Glacier Exit – scenic descent with expansive views
• Sherbrooke Lake Exit – fun skiing leading back toward the Trans-Canada Highway

Private group trips are available, please inquire at info@alpineairadventures.com.

Course Package

A detailed course package will be emailed 3 days prior to course commencement.

Tipping Your Guide

If you had an exceptional experience, tips for guides are always appreciated. A 10–15% gratuity is customary and can be given in cash or arranged through the AAA office.

Important Documents & Policies

• Please read and review our Waiver prior to booking.
• Please read and review our Cancellation Policy.
• Cancellation Insurance is available through the Simpson Group.
• All of our guides have undergone training and evaluation by the ACMG, meeting the established criteria of a globally acknowledged professional organization.