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Khyber Pass Hike

Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb

Lesser known route with incredible forest viewing, and stunning alpine views.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
15 km
Ascent
1.6 km
Descent
469 m
Duration
5-6 hrs
Low Point
655 m
High Point
2.2 km
Gradient
14˚
Khyber Pass Hike Map

A barely known trail that showcases the best of the incredible forests, alpine views and interesting terrain. A great route to escape the crowds.

Description

The best way to get here if you plan on looping the route is taking the bus to Function Junction to get to the trailhead. If you park here, be sure to have a way to get back to your car as this route ends in Whistler Village (where you can catch a bus back).

The first half follows mountain bike trails so be sure to be mindful of bikes coming down. Also for navigation purposes the route using the bike trail names as found on this app.

  • Begin following the Riparian Trail to the suspension bridge.
  • On the far side of the bridge follow the South (Far Out) to where it crosses the access road to Helm Creek Trailhead to the High Side Trail ( East).
  • Keep following this trail uphill where it connects to See Colours and Puke.
  • The trail evens out at Babylon by Bike.
  • Upper Babylon forks South (right hand) and heads uphill.
  • Eventually this connects to the Microwave tower road.
  • Go down the hill looking East (right) for the Khyber Pass trail just past the tight bend beneath the tower. If you've gone more than 300m past the tower you've gone too far.
  • From here is a lovely hike through older forest heading upwards.
  • After a steep hike through a cliff band the trees thin as you begin to enter the alpine.
  • Be wary of resort bikers here as they move quickly and often do not expect hikers in this area. Be sure to follow footpaths where possible. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
  • The trail parallels the Top Of the World trail, until crossing it and heading steeply up the scree to the headwall that sits above the Coquallorum bowl.
  • This is called the High Note trail and is quite exposed.
  • Follow this well worn trail to the peak chair.
  • From the peak chair the easiest path is following Matthews Traverse to Harmony Chair, and then take the Pika's Traverse road around and downwards.
  • For a more interesting route climb up to the T-Bar, and walk the ridge line back. Be warned though there is a Via Ferrate course operated by the mountain that is explicitly off limits.

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

High Exposure

3 out of 4

Some trail sections have exposed ledges or steep ascents/descents where falling could cause serious injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between August and October

Features

  • Alpine
  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Wild flowers
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area