We picked the only weekend we had available in March for this trip, which was a particularly snowy one. Avalanche risk was very high. Skiing at a resort would have been superb. Skiing in mostly flat terrain in backcountry was an … interesting … choice we made.
But we have the camping challenge, where we are camping outside every month this year! So off we went to Elfin Lakes.
This trip was also training for us for April, when we will be doing the Spearhead Traverse. This is a ski traverse from Blackcomb to Whistler the long way around, through the mountains and glaciers.
So we had to practice skiing with overnight bags and winter camping. And let’s just say many lessons were learned.
On a practical note:
- Camping reservations are required year-round at Elfin Lakes, and our permits were checked by a ranger.
- Chains are required to park in the upper parking lot, but you can just walk up from the lower lot if you don’t have them.
- Bear hangs are almost buried in the winter, so come with a plan B for your food.
- Reservations for Elfin Lake Hut are hard to come by in the winter, but you should have no problems with campsites.
- Don’t camp under a tree, lest it attack your tent.
- It’s a good idea to have avy gear and training if you venture beyond the hut.
On a personal note:
I recently took a storytelling workshop, and I tried to put some of what I learned into this video. It’s a bit different from my others. More talking, more emotions, more fails, more emojis. Let me know what you think.
