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About ACC Ski Traverses (Wapta and Bow-Yoho)

ACC Ski Traverses are multi-day hut-to-hut backcountry ski trips across glaciated terrain. The two main routes are the Wapta Traverse and the Bow-Yoho Traverse.

ACC Ski Traverses are multi-day, hut-to-hut backcountry ski trips across glaciated terrain in the Canadian Rockies. Two main routes are commonly travelled, both ending in linked huts you book through the standard hut booking system.

Wapta Traverse

  • Approximately 50 km in length
  • Around 2,400 m of ascent and 2,700 m of descent
  • Connects four huts: Peyto Hut, Bow Hut, Balfour (Rob Ritchie) Hut, and Scott Duncan Hut
  • Crosses the Wapta and Waputik Icefields
  • Suited to skiers comfortable with glacier travel and ski mountaineering

Bow-Yoho Traverse

  • Approximately 50 km in length
  • Around 2,100 m of ascent and 2,800 m of descent
  • Connects three huts: Bow Hut, Louise & Richard Guy Hut, and Stanley Mitchell Hut
  • Crosses the Wapta, Yoho, and des Poilus glaciers
  • Often offers more powder than the Wapta route

How to book

Hut nights along these traverses are booked through the standard ACC hut booking system. See How to Book an ACC Hut for the booking process and windows.

Skills and preparation

Both traverses involve glaciated terrain and require:

  • Strong backcountry skiing experience
  • Glacier travel and crevasse rescue skills
  • Avalanche training (AST 2 or equivalent recommended)
  • Appropriate equipment for multi-day travel

If you're not confident in these areas, consider going with a certified guide.

For booking and trip planning questions, contact info@alpineclubofcanada.ca or call (403) 678-3200.