Spearhead Traverse
Blackcomb to Whistler over twelve glaciers — the Canadian haute route.
- Length: 3 Days
- Where: Whistler Blackcomb
- Season: Jan–Apr
- Grade: Challenging
- Guide ratio: 1:4
- Price: $850 CAD per person
The Spearhead links Blackcomb and Whistler across a high glaciated horseshoe — twelve glaciers in three days, on skins and skis. It is the Canadian answer to the European haute route, done the Canadian way: each night in an igloo, a snow cave, or a winter tent.
We have guided this traverse most winters since 1998, and no two crossings have been the same. We plan around the snowpack: some years we take the high cols, some years we choose the lower line instead.
The route
We meet at 8:30am at the base of Blackcomb, ride the lifts, and skin onto the Spearhead glaciers. From there it is a sequence of cols and broad glacial benches to Russet Lake and out over Whistler Mountain. Nights are spent the Canadian way — an igloo, a snow cave, or a winter tent, built where the day ends.
Itinerary
- Day 1 — Onto the glacier Lift-assisted start from Blackcomb, then skins onto the Spearhead. We cover rope travel and slope assessment as we go, and make camp by mid-afternoon with time to build shelter.
- Day 2 — The high cols The long day. We link the central glaciers, choosing the line by aspect and the morning's stability. Lunch on a col, then a descent to the second camp.
- Day 3 — Out to Russet A final glacial bench to Russet Lake, the descent to Whistler village, and a debrief over the maps.
What's included
- Lead guide
- Glacier travel gear
- Backcountry camping park fees
- Route plan & weather briefing
- Group first-aid & repair kit
Is this for me?
Strong skiers and splitboarders with good fitness and previous winter camping experience. Bring your own transceiver, probe, and shovel, winter camping kit, and food — we confirm the full list on a call before booking.
What to bring
- Winter camping kit & sleep system (rental available)
- Transceiver, probe & shovel (rental available)
- Food for the traverse