Astlais Mountain Summit

9.20 km
837m gain
4.00 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0/5
Difficulty
Hard
9.20
Distance
kilometres
837
Elevation Gain
metres
4.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Astlais Mountain offers a challenging and highly rewarding alpine adventure, culminating in spectacular panoramic views from its scenic summit. While the trail's length contributes to its difficulty, the primary challenge comes from its significant elevation gain, making it an excellent choice for experienced hikers seeking a demanding mountain ascent.


The journey begins along Old Babine Lake Road, where a small dirt pullout provides parking near the trailhead. From there, the route follows a well-established path through forested terrain before steadily climbing toward the alpine. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens to expansive mountain vistas, rewarding every step of the ascent.

Between kilometres 4.0 and 4.4, the route briefly leaves the established trail and requires hikers to travel off-trail. This section demands extra attention, good navigation skills, and careful footing before reconnecting with the route leading to the summit.


Upon reaching the top, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges, valleys, and wilderness, making the effort well worthwhile. Due to the trail's remote location, elevation, and short off-trail section, visitors should carry a map or GPS device, wear sturdy hiking footwear, and be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather. Astlais Mountain is a memorable destination for those looking to experience a true backcountry adventure in the heart of British Columbia.

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

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Getting There

Directions

From Smithers, drive east on Highway 16 approximately 3km and turn left (north) onto Old Babine Lake Road. Follow Old Babine Lake Road and look for a yellow mining sign on the left side of the road — this marks the trailhead. Park on the shoulder of Old Babine Lake Road or carefully drive 20m up the access track to a small grassy parking area. The route follows the old mining road uphill into the forest, heading toward the mountain. From km 4 to 4.4km the trail transitions to off-trail terrain to reach the summit.

Parking

Roadside shoulder parking on Old Babine Lake Road near the yellow mining sign. A small grassy pullout is also available approximately 20m up the access track. No formal facilities or fees. All services available in Smithers.

Safety & Preparation

The final 400m to the summit is off-trail over mining scree and loose gravel — careful footing is required and the terrain can be slippery. Navigation skills and a downloaded GPX track are essential for the off-trail section. Some sections of the road and trail are overgrown — long pants and sturdy footwear are recommended. Significant bear scat has been reported along this route — bears (black bear and grizzly) are regularly active in this area. Carry bear spray, make noise throughout, and avoid hiking alone. Snow can persist in the upper reaches well into late spring; gaiters and waterproof boots are advisable until at least late June. The mining road can be soft and wet in spring — assess conditions before starting. Cell service is unreliable — inform someone of your detailed plans and expected return time before departing.

GPX downloaded