- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Canadian Rockies 11,000ers
- Mount Willingdon
11,076 ft · Clearwater Ranges, Alberta
Mount Willingdon
Mount Willingdon is an 11,076 ft peak in the Clearwater Ranges, Alberta. The standard route is the West Ridge: 24 mi, 7,874 ft of gain, Class 4.
Mount Willingdon at a glance
- Elevation11,076 ft3,375 m
- RouteWest RidgeClass 4
- Distance24 mi7,874 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeClearwater RangesAlberta
Climbing the West Ridge
From Lake Louise, drive Hwy 1 and Hwy 93 north to the Mosquito Creek trailhead. Hike over Quartzite Col, down to the Siffleur valley and over Clearwater Pass to a random camp at Devon Lakes. The West Ridge (class 4, Alpine I) is mostly scree and scrambling, with a short wet cliff band near the top that some rate 5.2. Expect loose rock, exposure, and slick rock at the crux. Bring a short rope to rappel the cliff. Display a Parks Canada pass, and get a Parks Canada wilderness pass (backcountry permit) for the random camp in person or by phone. Carry a bear canister.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (55–75 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Helmet
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Steep exposure
- Slippery terrain
- Remote location
Quests with Mount Willingdon
Canadian Rockies 11,000ersPeaks near Mount Willingdon
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Willingdon?
Mount Willingdon is 11,076 feet (3,375 m) tall. It is in the Clearwater Ranges, Alberta.
How does Mount Willingdon rank among the Canadian Rockies 11,000ers?
At 11,076 feet, Mount Willingdon is the 44th highest of the 54 Canadian Rockies 11,000ers. The highest is Mount Robson.
How hard is it to climb Mount Willingdon?
The West Ridge is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 24 miles with 7,874 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Mount Willingdon?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the West Ridge, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Mount Willingdon dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and rockfall from loose rock. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a rope to climb Mount Willingdon?
Most parties bring one. The West Ridge is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
When is the best time to climb Mount Willingdon?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Mount Willingdon with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list