Skiing the Remote Slopes of Mount Waddington in Northwest Territories

Skiing the Remote Slopes of Mount Waddington in Northwest Territories

Mount Waddington, British Columbia’s highest peak at 4,019 meters (13,186 feet), offers some of the most exhilarating backcountry skiing in Canada. Although not in the Northwest Territories, its remote and rugged terrain attracts expert skiers seeking extreme descents and untouched powder. The challenge lies in accessibility, unpredictable weather, and demanding conditions. This area is ideal for those prepared for expedition-style skiing, requiring careful planning and expert knowledge.

Adventure Guide to Skiing the Remote Slopes of Mount Waddington

1. The Bravo Glacier Route

• Location: Western face of Mount Waddington
• Why It’s Special: This classic ski route features long, dramatic descents with breathtaking views of deep valleys and dramatic icefalls. The snowpack remains stable for extended periods, making for excellent skiing conditions.
• Key Features:
  • Elevation gain of over 2,000 meters (6,500 feet).
  • Challenging crevasse navigation.
  • Requires advanced glacier travel skills.

2. Tiedemann Glacier Tour

• Location: Eastern side of Mount Waddington
• Why It’s Special: This multi-day traverse offers vast, open alpine bowls and steep couloirs. The terrain varies between mellow glacier fields and extreme drop-offs.
• Key Features:
  • Requires camping in harsh alpine conditions.
  • High avalanche risk; safety gear is essential.
  • Access to technical ski descents.

3. Combatant Couloir Descent

• Location: Near the Combatant Mountain Massif adjacent to Mount Waddington
• Why It’s Special: A steep, adrenaline-fueled descent for expert skiers, featuring 50-degree pitches and tight chutes.
• Key Features:
  • Essential rope work for safe passage.
  • Demands extreme skiing ability.
  • Remote, with no quick rescue access.

Local Insights

• Helicopter access is common, typically from Tatla Lake or Bluff Lake in British Columbia.
• Weather can shift rapidly—high winds and whiteouts are frequent.
• Few groups attempt Waddington’s ski routes, ensuring true wilderness solitude.

Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Late April to early June for stable snow and safer crevasse conditions.
• What to Bring:
  • Full touring ski setup with skins.
  • Avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel.
  • Satellite communication device.
• Access: Start from Vancouver, drive 10-12 hours north to Tatla Lake, then fly by helicopter into the range.