We spent 3 days on a scouting/reconnaissance trip in the Bighorn backcountry. This trail starts at the Siffleur Falls staging area and skirts the Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve. Easy travel for 3/4 of the 16 km trip (one way). Numerous camp sites on the hike in (for 1 or 2 tents) with one big outfitter camp about 1/2 way suitable for a large group. There is one fairly easy steam crossing (be sure to bring sandals). The last third of the trail is the crux with the trail following a steep creek bed (be sure not to get sucked into hiking the creek bed as the trail zigzags around it for 90% of the time). The camp at Farley Lake has about 5 tenting spots (2 are good, 3 are pretty crappy). Bear hang and a latrine area would be a challenge for a larger group. This campsite was fairly clean considering it’s located in a random camping area. I’m still not sure why people cannot pack out their TP? There is one side trip/day hike option up to Hummingbird Pass, but it is a very challenging hike, so not for the inexperienced. The Bighorn is an incredible area that needs to be protected!!
On The Map
These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.