Zupjok, Llama, Alpaca Traverse

Zupjok, Llama and Alpaca Traverse follows a ridge connecting three peaks in the Coquihalla Recreation Area. This traverse is a day hike that provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see many of the peaks and mountains (e.g., Coquihalla Mountain, Needle Peak, Vicuna, Ibex, Steinbok, and many more). After arriving at the summit of Zupjok Peak, you can see the route beyond. The trail follows the crest of the ridge to the distant peak (left side of centre in the photo below).

The Hike

The hike begins at the Zopkios Rest Area. There are well maintained bathrooms and a food stand for the truckers. Any vehicle can access the parking lot. From the parking lot, you'll walk past the bathrooms then turn right onto the trail. To start, the trail is relatively flat and easy-going.

After following the trail for a bit, you'll turn right by a cairn onto single track trail. Follow this trail to the summit of Zupjok Peak. From the summit, you'll have beautiful views of the mountains.

After enjoying the views on the summit, follow the well established trail toward Llama peak.

The trail weaves through sub-alpine and alpine areas. You can see Vicuna Peak in the distance (right side of the photo).

Looking back, you can clearly see the trail following the ridge. Route finding is very straightforward.

In a few spots, you'll cross large granite slabs. The trail will fade. Stay on the crest of the ridge and you'll pick up the trail again.

From the shoulder of Alpaca peak, you can enjoy spectacular views of Vicuna and Guanaco Peaks.

On the opposite shoulder of Alpaca Peak, you can enjoy beautiful views of Steinbok Peak (slightly left of centre), Gamuza Peak (further left), Ibex Peak (slightly right of centre), Les Cornes (further right) and Gemse Peak (right foreground).

After enjoying the views, continue along granite slabs to the summit of Alpaca Peak.

There is a pink metal box at the summit.

From the summit, you can see further along the ridge to Big Horn Peak.

Final Thoughts

The Zupjok, Llama, Alpaca Traverse is a worthwhile hike in the Coquihalla Recreation Area. It is the perfect introductory hike to the Coquihalla Recreation Area. From the ridge, you can see many of the mountains and peaks in the area. Having firsthand views will inspire future adventures into the area!