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North Twin  3730 m 

Jasper National Park, Alberta (click for map)

South and North Twins showing North Twin ski ascent route.

Two glaciated peaks known as The Twins are located at the far north end of Columbia Icefield. In this section of the Icefield await 5 peaks over 11,000 ft  (3353 m) high that are popular spring ski mountaineering destinations. En route you pass two more big peaks. Most parties allow 3 days for a trip to this area as it takes a full day from Athabasca Glacier to reach a suitably-close campsite. Roped skiing is the norm due to many crevasses in the 300 metre thick glacial ice. Unlike the Matterhorn in the Alps, there are no huts; groups carry tents for shelter and melt snow for water. Good weather is never a given here, but is an absolute must for success.  Map/compass navigation may be necessary due to whiteout conditions. Serious business!

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A 2 person tent will be our cozy home for 3 days out on Columbia Icefield. Behind are South Twin (L) and North Twin (Right). We built a snow-wall to break the strong wind the first night.

Heading up the southeast slopes of North Twin from camp in the morning, May long weekend in1999. Unusually good weather prevailed for a change and many others were there taking advantage of it too. Sure beats watching hockey but then, so does sitting in a tent in a storm. And I call myself Canadian!

South Twin  (3580 m) as seen from North Twin. Normal route ascends right skyline ridge.

Nearing the top of North Twin. Note the overhanging cornice where a section of the permanent summit ice has melted  back. North Twins is third highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Mount Robson is highest; Columbia is second highest. None matches Mount Whitney's height in California, but nonetheless, I found these Rockies mountains infinitely more enjoyable and challenging.

© all photos copyright by the author 1999.

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