Finding the Sound of Music on a Hike To Crater Lake
Hudson Bay Mountain forms a spectacular backdrop for Smithers, BC. Its slopes rise up right from the end of Main St and rise to a rocky summit at an elevation of 8494 ft/2589 meters. The beautiful Kathlyn Glacier, visible further west of town is situated prominently in a bowl which add to its majesty. A 25 minute drive from town will take you up to the Hudson’s Bay Mountain Sky Resort and from there you can take a gorgeous hike up Hudson Bay Mountain through the alpine to Crater Lake or if you wish to continue on a rocky scramble, the summit.
Hudson Bay Mountain from downtown Smithers
The Kathlyn Glacier on the north side of Hudson Bay Mountain
The Hike
The round trip hike to Crater Lake is approximately 3 hours and while the first portion of the hike following the ski runs is quite steep, the trail flattens to a gradual incline across the alpine. The overall hike isn’t that difficult but you will climb up to 5,800 ft/1768 meters at Crater Lake, so if you are not used to higer altitudes you might find yourself a little breathless at times. The hike provides spectacular views of the Telkwa Mountains to the east of Smithers and during the summer their are multitudes of alpine flowers in bloom. As for wildlife, you are very likely so see some hoary marmots. The first indication of their presence is their high-pitched whistles warning of intruders in their domain. They can be hard to spot but if you look closely you can usually find them. If you are very lucky you will also see Mountain Goats much higher up on the slopes…usually only small white dots…you might want to bring your binoculars.
Looking up the trail at the Hudson Bay Mountain summit
An interesting sign leaves you wondering, what’s up there?
A wild profusion of wildflowers are glorious in early August
HIking down the ski runs through the wildflowers
A silhouetted hoary marmot gives himself away
A hoary marmot
Mountain Goats on the distant slopes
Crater Lake is a cirque lake (eroded by a glacier) and can still be ice covered, even in June. In August its waters are still pretty chilly as it is being fed from snow melt higher up the mountain. A surprising number of hikers come prepared to take a dip!
Crater Lake
Glaciers on the Telkwa Mountains
The Surprise
A really unusual aspect of the hike to Crater Lake is a piano nicely situated in the alpine with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Yes, it is a real functioning piano complete with a fitted tarp to protect it from the elements. So, if you are inclined, remove the cover, sit down and serenade the alpine! “The hills are alive with the sound of music”.
A Piano on the Alpine!
To Purchase Photos
For more images or to purchase images found in this post, click this link to our sister website: Smithers & Hudson Bay Mountain
I have read through your article and i was satisfied of the good information that you have contributed in your article! Thanks a lot for that beneficial article!