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Icefall Traverse
The Icefall Traverse is a hut-to-hut ski traverse through some of the best ski touring terrain in Canada. You will travel through complex glacier terrain past some of the highest peaks in the range carrying only a light pack. This may sound like the Haute Route or other tours in the Alps, the only difference is that you won’t see anybody else around, just the group that you helicoptered in with. This traverse incorporates the two newest huts in Canada; the Rostrum Cabin was built in 2019, and the Alexandra Cabin in 2020. It also stops at the Lyell Hut, the Mons Hut and the more comfortable Icefall Lodge. You will have exclusive use of 5 mountain huts with just a small group. In the right conditions, this traverse can allow you to ski 3 of the longest runs in Canada, all over 7000 feet vertical!
April 16-22, 2027: $3000

Here’s What To Expect

Itinerary

Day 1: We helicopter into the Mons Hut which sits at the toe of the glacier near the base of Mons Peak. Stepping out the door of the hut, you get a view of the Icefall on the Lyell Glacier. The traverse will pass above this icefall the next day. The Mons Hut offers access to many ski peaks and long glacier runs. Possible objectives include Mons Peak, Cambrai or the North Glacier on Mount Forbes. At 3612 m, Mt Forbes is the highest peak in Banff National Park. The run on the North Glacier takes you right up to the imposing north face.

Day 2: After a night at the Mons Hut, we travel to the Lyell Hut. There is a long run down to the edge of the Icefall Canyon, a 2000′ deep hole ringed with sheer cliffs and filled with frozen waterfalls. The Lyell Hut sits on a rock outcropping at 9300 feet and is surrounded on all sides by glacier. This is the highest elevation ski touring hut in Canada. You can watch alpenglow sunsets on the north face of Mt Forbes out the front window. One evening possibility is to ascend Christian Peak, Lyell 5, watch the sunset and ski down to the hut in the evening twilight. It takes about 10 minutes to ski from the summit to the hut.

Day 3: We will cross the Continental Divide over into Alberta and ski Rudolf, Edward and Ernest (Lyell 1, 2 and 3). These are some of the highest peaks in the range, and we can normally ski right off of the summits. From the summit of Lyell 3 (Earnest Peak 3448m), we have a 2200m descent down a run called the Wild West. This is the longest ski run in Canada. You will ski down from one of the highest peaks in the range through spectacular icefalls and end your run at the newly completed Alexandra Cabin. An alternative for getting to the Alexandra Cabin is to ski the Deep End. This run skis more directly to the Alexandra Cabin, exits the glacier much sooner and has more trees and rock for reference. If the visibility isn't good this is a great option for getting to the Alexandra. With over 1500m of vertical drop it is still a huge run in a spectacular setting.

Days 4-5: After a comfortable night in the Alexandra Cabin with a wood stove and sauna, you will head for Icefall Lodge, where you will spend the next two nights. The route to the lodge climbs up out of Lyell Creek by either the Portal or the Shark’s Gate. The addition of the Alexandra Cabin means you will do this in the morning when it is cooler and generally safer.

You are treated to a sauna, shower, electricity, wood stove, double rooms, running water, and many other comforts at Icefall Lodge. The lodge sits at treeline, and if the weather is snowy, there are many tree skiing possibilities here. It is typically possible to arrive at the lodge earlier in the week if it is bad weather up at the huts. There are multiple ski objectives, both summits and ski runs from the lodge.

Day 6-7: Climb over Ice Pass and ski down to the Rostrum Cabin. It is also possible to ski to the summit of Mt Kemmel along the way and enjoy a 1200m ski down to the hut. The Rostrum Cabin sits at treeline with a view of the blue ice and tumbling glaciers draping Rostrum Peak. While it is smaller than the lodge, it has many of the same comforts.

The last day is a skin up to the Tempest Glacier and a long run down to the valley bottom for a helicopter pick-up. You will pass through Porcupine Saddle, skiing past blue glacier ice and sometimes through crevasses. In the right conditions, you can climb and ski from the summit of Icefall Peak to the valley floor. Another run of over 7000 feet vertical.

Trip Details
Ratio
1-4 Guests Per Guide
Season
April
Duration
7 Days
Skill level
Advanced +

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Program Rates
April 16-22, 2027: $3000

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Gear List
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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y9KGSPcG8scizAtWX_dD6A0gvm7EQrxA/view

Program Cost Includes: Certified Guides, blankets and duvets, accommodation in 5 different mountain huts, cabins, and lodge, all meals, helicopter transport in and out.

Program Cost Does NOT Include: Transportation to and from staging area.

Reviews

Over 100 5 star reviews!

“Climbing with CMA was a true reflection of mindful mountaineering. As a female mountain lover, I’m used to being the only lady in a group of dudes. Sometimes that doesn’t feel 100% comfortable, particularly when you feel like it’s all about the grind, no emotions allowed. With CMA I felt that I was part of a big bear hug of awesomeness. Guides often set the tone for the team, and Zack set a tone of kindness and respect for everyone. When the going got tough, his humor lightened the mood without jeopardizing the seriousness of what we doing. I will definitely be climbing with CMA again!“

- Adrienne

“They do the essentials really well: they’re professional, knowledgeable and competent, great teachers, and always keep an eye on safety as every guide service must. What sets them apart for me is that they do all that AND make it FUN. Some of the best times I’ve ever had in the mountains are with this crew. I highly recommend them!”

- Chase

“I hired this guide crew for technical education and then returned for their recreational guiding services. I’ll continue to lean on Cascade Mountain Ascents to bring me further into the backcountry and advance my technical skills in the mountains.”

- Blake

“Cascade Mountain Ascents is seriously raising the bar for avalanche education—Fun-loving, inclusive, knowledgable, fantastic educators, and all around stellar folks! I would absolutely recommend taking a course or spending a weekend in the mountains CMA!“

- Maggie

“Zack and Cascade Mountain Ascents is the best choice for your adventure no matter your skill level. From beginner to seasoned pro, Zack has you covered. His knowledge and skills of all-terrain and mountain situations had us feeling safe and confident all the way.”

- Adrian

“I’ve taken courses with the guides at CMA as well as gotten personal goals accomplished. Each time I’ve come away more competent, more confident, and inspired to take what I’ve learned into my next outing.”

- BRENNAN

“Fifth time out there with Zack – and as always it was spectacular. Zack‘s calm guiding style – paired with perfect preparation and route planning – push you without ever overwhelming personal abilities and strength. Countless successfully climbed peaks and everlasting memories are the rewards.”

- WOLFGANG

“I have skied with all of the guides at CMA and have had great experiences. They are passionate about their craft, and it shows in the experiences they provide. They know where to find the best skiing and have extensive knowledge of the local terrain.”

- PATRICK

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Skill Levels

Ski & Ride

Beginner

I’ve never (or only a handful of times) toured in the backcountry before.

Intermediate

I’ve toured a bit and been exposed to a variety of conditions in the backcountry.

Advanced

I’m a strong rider with at least a few seasons of experience touring in the backcountry riding a variety of conditions.

Expert

Skiing/Riding is life. I tour in the backcountry 60+ days per year and have many years of experience.

Alpine

Beginner

I’ve never (or only a handful of times) been alpine climbing before.

Intermediate

I’ve climbed a bit on snow as well as rock and understand the basics.

Advanced

I’m a strong climber with at least a few years of experience climbing snow, rock, and ice.

Expert

Climbing is life. I have many years of experience climbing big mountain objectives in steep variable terrain.

Rock

Beginner

I’ve never (or only a handful of times) been outdoor rock climbing before.

Intermediate

I’ve climbed a few outdoor multi-pitch rock climbs as a follower and understand the basics.

Advanced

I’m a strong climber with at least a few years of experience climbing multi-pitch routes outside (sometimes on lead).

Expert

Climbing is life. I have many years of experience climbing and am comfortable leading up to 5.9 trad.

Program Rates

Scheduled Programs

Scheduled Programs are open to all to sign up for. These programs are charged a flat rate per person, regardless of the number of people on your booking. This flat rate is often the same as the 3:1 per person rate. Scheduled programs tend to be more cost effective for groups of one or two people, and allow you to connect with other people with similar mountain interests and skill sets. 

Standard Programs

Day Rates
Overnight Rates
AIARE Courses
Ratio

1:1

1:2

1:3

1:4 +

Price

$600

$375

$325

$300

Ratio

1:1

1:2

1:3

1:4 +

Price

$650

$425

$375

$350

Course

AIARE 1

AIARE 2

AIARE Rescue

Mentorship

Price

$625

$625

$300

$100

Technical Programs

Cascade Mountain Ascents pays guides more when they are working in terrain that is more involved or poses higher objective hazard. Therefore, a surcharge is added to trips we deem Challenging ($100) and Complex ($200). A custom surcharge may apply to non-standard programs and will be worked out by the guide and administrative staff along with the guest(s) during program design. Here’s more information on Technical Program Surcharges. 

INCOME BASED PROGRAMS

At Cascade Mountain Ascents, we believe that everyone deserves access to safe and joyful mountain experiences, regardless of their financial circumstances. That's why we are excited to introduce our income-based program rates. These rates are designed to pay it forward and create structural mechanisms for mitigating financial barriers to the outdoors. Our income-based program rates are founded on the principle of fairness, and rely on the honest self-assessment by participants. Before selecting a payment tier, please consider your economic situation in relation to the program. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. This program is modeled after Moxie Mountain Guides’ program-costing system. Many thanks to Sheldon Kerr and Kristin Arnold for paving the way!

SPONSORED
SUPPORTED
STANDARD
60% of Standard Rate: This reduced-tuition tier is for individuals who would otherwise not be able to afford this trip or course. It covers the essential costs of running the program, including guide wages and administrative support directly related to the course. 80% of Standard Rate: This reduced-tuition tier is for individuals who would otherwise not be able to afford. It covers program expenses and overhead costs while also providing essential support to CMA as a small business. Standard: This tier is the standard cost of the program in the absence of payment tier options. This tier covers program expenses, supports CMA as a small business, and contributes to the sustainability of our payment tier program, and financially supports the development of future affinity programs.
Program Rates

Scheduled Programs

Scheduled Programs are open to all to sign up for. These programs are charged a flat rate per person, regardless of the number of people on your booking. This flat rate is often the same as the 3:1 per person rate. Scheduled programs tend to be more cost effective for groups of one or two people, and allow you to connect with other people with similar mountain interests and skill sets. 

Standard Programs

Day Rates

Ratio
Price
1:1 $600
1:2 $375
1:3 $325
1:4 + $300

Overnight Rates

Ratio
Price
1:1 $650
1:2 $425
1:3 $375
1:4 + $350

Day Rates

Ratio
Price
Level 1 $575
Level 2 $575
Rescue $275
Mentorship $100

Technical Programs

Cascade Mountain Ascents pays guides more when they are working in terrain that is more involved or poses higher objective hazard. Therefore, a surcharge is added to trips we deem Challenging ($100) and Complex ($200). A custom surcharge may apply to non-standard programs and will be worked out by the guide and administrative staff along with the guest(s) during program design. Here’s more information on Technical Program Surcharges. 

Income Based Programs

At Cascade Mountain Ascents, we believe that everyone deserves access to safe and joyful mountain experiences, regardless of their financial circumstances.  That’s why we are excited to introduce our income-based program rates.  These rates are designed to pay it forward and create structural mechanisms for mitigating financial barriers to the outdoors. They currently only apply to our Affinity Programs. Irrespective of the tier you choose, 10% of all proceeds from the program will be directly allocated to CMA’s Scholarship Program.

50% Off Standard Rate: This tuition tier is for individuals who would otherwise struggle to afford the trip or course. It covers the essential costs of running the program, including guide wages and administrative support directly related to the program. 15% Off Standard Rate: This reduced tuition tier covers program expenses and overhead costs while also providing crucial support to CMA as a small business. Standard Rate+: This tier is the standard cost of the program in the absence of payment tier options. In choosing this tier, you are covering your program expenses, contributing to the sustainability of our payment tier program, and financially supporting the development of future affinity programs.