SKY PILOT ASCENT

Aptly named, rising 2130 meters directly above the Pacific Ocean, Sky Pilot Mountain certainly provides one with an aerial experience! The mountain itself stands as a proud pinnacle among a spectacular cluster of peaks. The ascent to the summit is considered a moderate alpine climb, initially ascending the Stadium glacier to either the South or West Ridge, past the Pink Slab crux and to the summit.

The Sea to Sky Gondola provides quick and easy access to the trailhead. Guests can book a one day “summit push” through the website. However if you would prefer to do this as an overnight adventure please Contact Us and we can arrange a date.

Two routes are recommended to climb Sky Pilot Mountain, either the South or West ridges routes. The South ridge being more a scramble while the West Ridge is a bit more is considered a moderate difficulty (grade III ) ascent of 9 – 12 hours (round trip) with some quite exposed sections. Most parties will wish to do a two-day ascent with a day one bivouac along the ridge, gaining the summit and returning to the valley on day two. On weekends, when the gondola stays open late, or with a truck shuttle on the Mamquam forestry road, a fit party can accomplish the route in a day.

The Sky Pilot group of peaks along with the Stadium Glacier, Co-Pilot and Ledge Mountain offers several mountaineering opportunities for other alpine climbs. The Sea to Sky Gondola cuts out over 800 meters of steep uphill approach. Guests can choose between a 2-day or one-day ascent. As well as more overnights in order to achieve the triumvirate of Co-Pilot, Sky Pilot, and Ledge peaks.

If you wish to take this as a two-day overnight please Contact Us for available dates.

**The price of the tour does not include a gondola ticket. Gondola tickets are available for purchase through our office.**

Meeting Location: Meet the guide for an early start at the Sea to Sky Gondola.

At the Gondola you will meet your guide for the day, sign waivers, grab all your climbing gear and discuss the outlook for the day.

This is a full day of guided alpine route, starting with a peaceful gondola ride up, followed by a walk in, climb the selected route and walk out, finishing up with a gentle Gondola down the final stretch (times will vary depending on size, experience and fitness level of group).

This tour is offered on weekends only when the Sea to Sky Gondola is open for the longest time. Special arrangement can be made in advance for a mid week trip with additional transport cost.

Rentals/Purchase:

If you require rentals we have teamed up with local rental companies to provide discounted rentals. Visit our rental page HERE for more information!

Group Gear

• Satellite Phone / Spot / Radio
• Rope
• Climbing Rack

Personal Gear

• 35-45L pack
• Harness
• Helmet
• Ice Axe
• Crampons
• 2 Locking Carabiners
• 1 double length sling
• Crevasse Rescue Kit
• Water bottle – thermos recommended for hot beverage
• Personal medications
• Approach shoes

Recommended Clothing

• Climbing pants (light pants that allow maximum mobility)
• Tee shirt
• 2 Mid layer fleece or wool top
• Weatherproof shell jacket
• Down or synthetic insulating “puffy” jacket
• Warm hat
• Warm gloves & spare gloves
• Sunglasses and sunscreen

Optional

• Camera
• Blister kit (second skin or similar)

Weather conditions here are constantly changing. Plan ahead, look at the weather forecast, and prepare for the potential weather conditions. Consider that when you are not climbing you can cool down quickly, so bringing layers is a good plan.