Pocaterra Cirque hike

While there might be some route finding required at the start of this trail, it’ll be worth the hassle. There are several different hikes that start in the same area and there isn’t sufficiently clear signage for each. We recommend using GPS to ensure you’re on the right track. The trail also has some wet, deep mud in spots that could be messy even if it hasn’t rained very recently. Consider an extra pair of socks! It also gets very busy during autumn, thanks to the abundance of larch trees lighting up the trail, so come early if you plan to hike in late September or October.

This hike is gorgeous without too much effort required to enjoy it. From the mountain views to the pristine lake and golden larches in the fall, it’s a perfect half-day out. The trailhead for Pocaterra Cirque begins from the Highwood Pass parking lot. Most people here will be heading to Ptarmigan Cirque or Pocaterra Ridge, so take care not to follow the crowds. You’ll start out on the same trail as Ptarmigan Cirque for 984ft before a twinned dirt trail appears and heads left, with a sign reminding you to stay on-trail at the intersection. Take the left-hand trail. You’ll pass a large boulder before entering the trees and starting to gain elevation. About 525ft from this point, the trail veers sharply left. Ignore the various false trails and continue on in a generally southward direction—if you find yourself heading east, you’ve accidentally taken the Highwood Ridge trail.

You’ll eventually break out of the trees and cross a small creek. Once you’re just over 1.2mi from the parking lot, you should be reaching Pocaterra Tarn. This is a nice spot for a quick break with views of Mount Rae and Mount Arethusa. After the tarn, the trail starts to climb towards a grassy area. You’ll see a cairn at a fork in the trail, so take care to head left here (right goes to Pocaterra Ridge). After 1476ft, you’ll reach another fork. Continue right/straight.

From here, the trail to the cirque is clear. Enjoy views of Mount Tyrwhitt, Mount Pocaterra, and Pocaterra Ridge behind you. Enjoy! Continue back the way you came to return to the parking lot.