Windtower (via West Wind Pass)

Distance: 10km (Out and back)

Elevation Gain: 920 m

Rating: moderate

Remoteness: Up to west wind pass can be busy, the peak can be quiet!

This hike truly lives up to its name, but it is completely worth braving the cold wind for the views. That’s what layers are for right? This is a 10km hike with about 920m of elevation gain.

This trail starts off following west wind pass, with gradual incline that quickly gets up to a nice view overlooking a scenic valley.

From here, you veer right up to Windtower peak. This requires some route finding, as the trail isn’t well marked or easy to follow. It makes for a different hike every time you do it!

This hike isn’t super technical or exposed, making it possible to enjoy the beautiful view of spray lakes the whole way up.

Once at the top, you get an epic 360-degree view, with lots of opportunity for pictures. However, the wind is so strong it makes it hard to stay standing, or stay up there for long. We made the mistake of trying to cook spaghetti at the top once, and ended up being too cold to eat it. Lower down where there is tree coverage is the best place for lunch and a beer.

We highly recommend this hike to anyone in search of an epic view, without wanting technical scrambling. We enjoy it every time we do it!