Hankin Lookout

5.10 km
536m gain
3.50 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0/5
Difficulty
Hard
5.10
Distance
kilometres
536
Elevation Gain
metres
3.50
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

This scenic alpine trail leads hikers to a historic fire lookout cabin, offering a rewarding journey through forests, alpine meadows, and open ridgelines. The well-defined trail is considered moderately challenging, featuring a steady climb with a few steeper sections that are rewarded by increasingly spectacular views as you gain elevation.


Upon reaching the recently renovated lookout cabin, hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and alpine landscapes. For those wishing to continue, the trail extends higher into the alpine, where even more impressive viewpoints await, making this route a favorite for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and adventurous hikers.


The trail also connects to the Hankin-Evelyn Backcountry trail network and ski system, making it a popular destination throughout the year. Overnight stays are available at the restored Lookout Cabin, providing a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the backcountry while enjoying one of the region's most memorable alpine settings. Whether you're visiting for a day hike or an overnight adventure, this trail offers an unforgettable mountain experience.

Leave No Trace

Please follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

Interactive Trail Map

Elevation Profile

No photos available yet

Community

Photos shared by fellow hikers — moderated before going live.

Community Photos

of

Have you been here?

Share a photo with the community. All submissions are reviewed before going live.

Getting There

Directions

 Access is via Kitseguecla Lake Road to the 615 Road / 6008 Road (Uptrack FSR). From Smithers, drive north on Highway 16 for approximately 21km and turn left onto Kitseguecla Lake Road. Turn left after the railway tracks, drive 8km, then turn left onto the 6008 Road just past the 8km signpost. Follow Hankin-Evelyn signs for approximately 6km to the Hankin Mountain parking area. The Hankin Lookout trailhead is located at coordinates 54.88941, -127.59244.

Parking

 Free parking at the Hankin Mountain trailhead parking area at the end of the access road. The road is plowed in winter by local sponsors. No formal facilities on site. The Lookout Cabin at the summit is available for overnight stays — contact the Bulkley Valley Backpackers Society at bvbackpackers.ca for cabin booking information. All services available in Smithers.

Safety & Preparation

The trail is steep throughout — trekking poles and sturdy footwear are strongly recommended. Although well-defined, the trail leads directly into alpine and avalanche terrain — in winter and spring always carry avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel) and check forecasts at avalanche.ca before heading out. Once above treeline, the terrain is fully exposed to weather — carry warm layers and rain gear regardless of conditions at the trailhead. Bears (black bear and grizzly) are present in this area — make noise, carry bear spray, and keep dogs on leash. Cell service is non-existent in this area — inform someone of your plans and expected return time.

GPX downloaded