Frosty Mountain Loop Backpacking Trail

The Frosty Mountain Loop Backpacking Trail is a challenging route that will take hikers through picturesque forests and scenic alpine meadows on the way to summit the highest point in E.C. Manning Provincial Park, Frosty Mountain. From here, you will be able to experience the natural beauty of the park, with panoramic views that stretch north across British Columbia and south into the United States. Depending on the time of year, hikers will also be able to see alpine wildflowers in full bloom or the immense frames of the golden larches that populate the area. This is definitely one of the best trails that can be found within the park.

Although this challenging and technical 16.8mi trail could be completed in a single day by fit, experienced hikers, it is best tackled as a two-day journey in order to really appreciate the beauty of the trail. In this format, it makes the most sense to set out from the parking area at Lightning Lake on an uphill journey to the Frosty Creek Camp. Here, hikers can set up camp and continue on to summit Frosty Mountain before returning to spend the night. Fully rested from the previous day’s activity, you can then set out to complete the remainder of the loop as it skirts by Windy Joe Mountain to return to the parking area at Lightning Lake. The Frosty Mountain Loop Backpacking Trail may be physically demanding and technical, but the views and overall experience are truly worth the effort.