Crystal Lake From Raft Mountain                                             Map of Route

Using the Cirque of Tarns Trail, we will hike 4 km with a 350m elevation gain to Crystal Pass.  Typically we turn left and climb a steep scree slope to a large tarn below Raft Summits 2 & 3 (an additional 200m elevation gain in 1.2 km).  This time we will continue straight and descend a scree slope to the shore of Crystal Lake (an elevation loss of 170m over 1 km).  From here the Raft 1 summit will tower above us.

A few things to note about the route:

• The beginning of the trail is very wet and buggy.  It is a good idea to bring an extra pair of rubber boots to cross the wet meadow.  Once through the meadow we will change to hiking boots.
• We will encounter some lingering snow at the pass.  Traction devices could be helpful.
• This is a harder route that will involve slippery conditions, route finding, boulder hopping and some steep slopes.
• We will be on the north side of Raft Mountain which even on a warm day can be cold and windy – expect late winter conditions.

Meet at Paul Lake at 8:30am to arrange carpooling.  Travel to Clearwater (125 km) and meet up with the leader at the Wells Gray info Center at 10:00am.  We will be on the trail by 10:30 am and could be on the trail for 5 to 6 hours depending on our pace.