91. Tolmie Peak, 5920' (S)

Tolmie Peak is located just beyond the Tolmie Lookout. It is an easy hike and short scramble from Mowich Lake. Howard Peak is close by and easily reached from the route, making for a relatively easy two-fer.

Tolmie Peak is named in honor of Dr. William Fraser Tolmie, the Hudson’s Bay Company surgeon who was the first white man to climb the peak. Apparently, he climbed it in 1833; it was not climbed again until 1883.

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Driving

Drive almost to the end of Mowich Lake Road and park where the road first comes to the lake on the east side of the road. The road to Mowich Lake usually does not open until July 4, some years even later.

Route

From the parking area look for a short spur trail leading to the trail along the west side of the lake. Head north to Ipsut Pass. At Ipsut Pass, continue straight on the trail to Eunice Lake. Then continue around the south part of Eunice Lake, heading to the lookout. From the lookout, continue on the ridge, heading east to the Tolmie summit. The summit is approximately 400' past the lookout site.

Comments

Flowers are wonderful in late July and August, especially by Eunice Lake. If you decide to go to Howard, leave at 5740' (east of the lookout) and head to a tarn at 5488'. From the tarn, head to the saddle south of Howard and then follow the ridge north to Howard. Howard can also be reached from the ridge heading north from the lookout. Initially, you will be on a heather slope, and then you should be able to find a path on the ridge leading to Howard.

Vital Statistics: Tolmie Peak

• Skill: Mostly hike, with a short scramble

• Beauty: 6

• Effort: 2

• Round-trip distance: 6.3 miles

• Elevation gain: 1700'

• Total time: 5 hours

• Best season: July through September, road to Mowich Lake may not open until after July 4

• Equipment: Scramble gear