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Surprise Pass

Banff National Park

Lake Louise's entry level Couloir

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
9.9 km
Ascent
841 m
Descent
841 m
Duration
4-5 hrs
Low Point
1.7 km
High Point
2.5 km
Gradient
44˚
Surprise Pass Map

Surprise Pass is a very popular route due to it's short length and proximity to Lake Louise. The route itself is not terribly steep despite how it looks. The snow is often mediocre as it gets hit by lot's of wind, but it is north facing, so solar slabs are less common.

Description

The route follows the hiking trail to the Saddle that starts from Lake Louise. This track is often chewed up by snowshoers, so it can be tricky. Eventually you gain the col, and traverse down a short section towards Mt Aberdeen. The valley curves towards Aberdeen, but keep an eye for the short snow climb on climbers left that is hidden by a rock outcropping. Skin up to the top of the pass, and transition here.

The descent is straight forward, though it's advisable to avoid the sides. There are several other slopes around the corner, and there have been remote triggers of these faces in the past. Alternatively you can ski 200m down, and bootpack up this in stable conditions.

The descent peters out in a rock field near the valley bottom. This section can get awkward depending on how much snow there is.

From here cross Lake Louise back to the car park.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between January and April

Features

  • Alpine
  • Couloir
  • Single Descent

Equipment required

  • Skins