Wilcox Pass

Wilcox Pass is a high open pass east of the Icefields Parkway, offering great views of the Columbia Icefield across the valley. The pass gives access to a number of scrambles, including Wilcox Peak and Tangle Ridge. The trail is 11.6 km long with an elevation gain of 411m, and is considered a challenging route. The pass itself is wide and very obviously glacier-scoured, with low parallel ridges running the length of the pass revealing the direction the ice flowed. A fragile layer of soil supports a myriad of wildflowers that burst to life during the brief two-month growing season. The trail soon enters an old forest of Engleman Spruce and Subalpine Fir and begins a moderate climb. Visitors can expect to see stunning views, beautiful fall colors, and amazing scenery, but should be aware of potential challenges such as tricky snow conditions, muddy patches, and slippery areas