Frosty Mountain Trail

Route Description for Frosty Mountain Trail

The Frosty Mountain Trail is a long, gradual uphill climb through the majestic E.C. Manning Park that takes hikers through alpine forests and meadows on the way to summit the peak. Due to the long nature of the hike and the possibility of inclement weather, hikers should ensure that they are prepared before setting out on this trail. Bring enough water and food to keep yourself fueled while out hiking and wear appropriate clothing for the conditions, as weather atop the summit can be extremely cold and windy. Additionally, hikers should wear sturdy hiking footwear in order to tackle the long grind and steep uphill climb to the summit.

This hike has some absolutely stunning views and the well-maintained trail makes this hike one of the best in the area. Setting out from Lightning Lake, the trail climbs steadily uphill through the forest before transitioning into a scenic alpine meadow. Depending on the time of year, you will be able to see beautiful alpine wildflowers or the large, golden frames of coniferous larches. The trail then climbs steeply up a rocky section to reach amazing mountaintop views over Canada and the United States from the first peak of Frosty Mountain. If you are looking for an awesome hike into the wilderness of E.C. Manning Provincial Park, then the Frosty Mountain Trail should sit near the top of your list.

Heading out from the parking lot next to Lightning Lake, follow the trail east and cross over the bridge to skirt your way around the eastern edge of the lake. At the fork in the trail, follow the path to the left and climb uphill through the forest. As you make your way along the series of switchbacks, you will catch a few glimpses of the lake through the tree cover.

After passing a few clearings that offer more views of Lightning Lake, you will come to a red marker that signifies the 4km point in the hike. Just beyond this marker, the trail will level out into some easier terrain, allowing you to cover some distance rather quickly before arriving at the Frosty Creek Campsite. This site is equipped with outhouses, an emergency shelter, and tenting areas, making it a good spot for overnight trips in the park.

Make your way through the campsite to continue on the route up the mountain, following the trail as it traverses another set of switchbacks. As you break through the tree cover and enter a peaceful alpine meadow, you will get an awesome view of Frosty Mountain ahead. Here, the route will begin to climb uphill rather quickly along a rocky and more technical section of the trail. This route is not well marked, so pay close attention to the worn-down path and follow it as it winds uphill to a junction with the Windy Joe Trail. Take the route to the right to traverse the ridge on the final ascent of Frosty Mountain’s first peak.

You will have reached the terminus of the hike when you arrive at a wooden sign marking the 2,408 m elevation of the mountain peak. Take in the beautiful sights of the surrounding mountain ranges, with the expanse of the Cascade Range in the United States to the south and Three Brothers Mountain to the north. When you’ve had your fill of the spectacular sights and fresh mountain air, you can begin your descent of Frosty Mountain along the exact same path that you came in on to return to the lakeside parking lot below.