The Wilcox Pass trail begins 2 km south of the Icefields Centre and meanders through forest past a small pond before emerging above the tree line to provide some amazing views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.



Today the weather is warm, around 6C. In previous years, the path has been icy in the morning which made it very slippery. This year it is just muddy which makes it very slippery.

The trail continues to climb until we cross Wilcox Creek where there are spectacular views of the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca and Dome glaciers.




We arrive at Wilcox Pass and have it all to ourselves. After a short break, we turn back and come across a herd of bighorn sheep lazing in the sun.

 
 

As we head back back down the trail, our sense of solitude quickly disappears as other hikers start to appear. It seems that most people don't start their hike until after 10am, so if you can get out on the trail before 9am you will have the trail to yourself for a little bit. The views on the return trip are even more amazing as you don't have to stop and turn to see them. It's called distracted walking.

 

Just before reentering the forest, The National Parks people have sited two red adirondack chairs with views of the Icefields Parkway and the glaciers.

 

We arrive back back at the trailhead and find a school bus full of kids preparing to do part of this hike. It was like herding cats trying to get them ready to head out. Thankfully we were done and ready to head back home to Canmore.