Alpine Horeshoe - Gentian/Helm Ridge Traverse

Last week we had the pleasure of having a few friends stay with us in our new home in Squamish. Chris Haywood stayed over the weekend and we had the opportunity and weather to head into the high country in Garibaldi Park. No dogs, hunting or off roading allowed in this park. Luck would have it that we left our pups, six guns and Dakar-Paris bikes safe at home so we were all set for a great adventure - perfect weather forecast tucked into our back pockets!

A right had turn up Helm Creek leaves the Chekamus Lake Trail and brings you Helm Meadows and later, the volcanic smorgasbord that is Black Tusk meadows..

After Helm Campground at KM 9, we took a NE turn, off trail to gain the tow of Gentian Ridge where we gained the alpine, a place we would stay for the next two days as we walked around the ridges that connect Gentian with panorama ridge.

Its all just walking, not even 'fancy' walking. You can have your hands in your pockets the whole time, which would be hard for taking pictures. But you could do it.

The views were amazing along the way, very beautiful country and not a single person on the ridge, which is not a traditional route although signs of passage are everywhere.

Campsite at the head of the Helm Glacier with a tiny tarn for water and a cool view of the mighty glacier spilling from the Castle Towers.

Sunset we wont soon forget.

The next day we left our tarn under an approaching storm front, we quickly moved and make our way to Panorama Ridge, scrambling a few summits along the way.

Including Helm Peak..

Garibaldi Lake comes into view...

A couple of buddies, a great reunion and a stellar trip into the high country.

Thanks Chris!