Coquihalla Mountain -West Peak

Coquihalla Mountain (2157 metres) is an extinct stratovolcano nearby the Coquihalla Recreation Area. Coquihalla Mountain sits prominently above the surrounding mountains. It is visible from many directions (e.g., Coquihalla highway, nearby mountains and peaks).

Unlike the Coquihalla Mountain Traverse, this route circumvents the east and central peaks to reach the south ridge. Then, it ascends to the summit of the west peak. For those who do not want the exposure of the Coquihalla Mountain Traverse, this route provides a safe way to reach the summit (e.g., class 2).

View from the south ridge toward Carry Peak (photo below)

The Hike

To reach Coquihalla Moutain follow the directions in my post for Coquihalla Mountain Traverse. Follow the approach to Jim Kelly Peak (picture below).

From the tarn, you'll continue forward through the alpine meadow toward the east peak of Coquihalla Mountain (picture below).

The trail will take you below the slopes of the east peak of Coquihalla Mountain (photo below).

The trail will take you alongside a boulder-field. For the easiest hiking, walk along the seam between boulders and alpine shrub.

Beautiful views toward the south

As you make it around the east peak, you'll need to cross the first boulder-field (picture below). Aim roughly for the middle of the boulder-field. You'll cross three boulder-fields separated by thin bands of trees. The way through the trees is marked by flagging tape.

After crossing the boulder-fields, you'll start to climb up some broken rock bands (picture below).

The Scramble

After the broken rock bands, you'll wind your way up a loosely defined trail toward a short section of scrambling to reach the summit ridge (i.e., class 2).

At the ridge, you'll emerge onto a very short ridge walk to the summit. From the summit, you can see the central and east peaks. You can also see Jim Kelly peak in the background. To return, you can reverse the route.

Final Thoughts

Coquihalla Mountain - West Peak is an enjoyable class 2 scramble/hike. On a clear day, the views area beautiful. Fair warning, hiking across the boulder-fields can be tedious. Having said that, the route also serves as a way to return from the Coquihalla Mountain Traverse or access to Carry Peak further south.