Why Rogers Pass Alpine Climbing Deserves More Attention
Ask most people about Rogers Pass and they'll mention skiing. The deep snowpack, the highway access, the massive vert per day — it's earned a global reputation as a backcountry ski destination. But come June, when the snow consolidates and the days lengthen, Rogers Pass transforms into something equally remarkable: one of Canada's finest alpine climbing areas, and one that relatively few people know about.
The quartzite peaks of the Selkirks are old and sharp. Mount Sir Donald, Mount Tupper, the Swiss Peaks, Mount Macdonald — these are serious, photogenic mountains with routes of every grade and commitment level. You can do the Swiss Peaks Traverse over two days and feel like you've had a proper alpine adventure. Or you can commit to the Northwest Ridge of Sir Donald — a technically demanding route that demands confident rock climbing, glacier travel, and a real alpine start. There's a huge range in between.
What makes Rogers Pass so special as a climbing destination is access. You park at the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre, lace up your boots, and within an hour you're in the heart of the Selkirks. No helicopter, no floatplane, no multi-day approach through the bush. Just the Trans-Canada highway and a trail. For Canadians used to paying handsomely to access the Bugaboos or Rockies objectives, it feels almost too good to be true.
The season typically runs from late June through September, with July and August offering the most settled weather. The ACC Clubhouse and Hermit Meadows campground both provide excellent basing options for multi-day trips. I've guided clients who came to Revelstoke for the skiing and then, almost by accident, ended up discovering a whole new reason to come back in the summer.
If you've ever been curious about alpine climbing and want to try it in one of Canada's most spectacular settings, Rogers Pass is a remarkable place to start. See what routes we guide →