Pipestone Pass Trail

Pipestone Pass Trail is a remote out-and-back from Fish Lakes Campground (MO18) along the alpine highline to the ridge northeast of Pipestone Pass. The mapped round trip is about 10.2 miles (16.4 km), or 5.1 miles (8.2 km) each way; allow about eight hours. It’s a long, exposed day with rolling high-country climbs and several stream crossings. Reaching the campground is a separate backpack from Mosquito Creek over North Molar Pass, so this is for hikers already at Fish Lakes or travelling a multi-day route, not a roadside day hike.

This line turns on the highline shoulder. Continuing to the pass saddle and on toward Clearwater Pass or Devon Lakes makes a longer traverse and is not included in the out-and-back distance.

From camp, head past the ranger cabin, cross a tributary and climb steeply through forest. The route then opens onto the western side of Pipestone Valley and traverses alpine meadow and willow slopes, with repeated ups and downs. The tread is often firm but can fade or braid, especially where it meets trees; the route can take attention to follow. Moose Lake is a small lake with a dramatic mountain backdrop, a good pause before the high valley opens around you. Several streams cross the line, so expect wet feet when the water is moving fast.

Parks Canada identifies the Pipestone River Valley as critical grizzly habitat and encourages hikers to use the alpine trail between Fish Lakes and the pass. The valley-bottom trail is no longer maintained beyond the junction. Stay on the highline; the upper valley also holds important summer food for grizzlies, including glacier lilies. Carry bear spray and keep the group together in this remote country.

The Pipestone River is named for red and green soft shale that people historically carved into pipes. James Hector crossed the pass on August 27, 1859; the Earl of Southesk came through in the opposite direction later that season, and their journeys nearly met. Near the pass, red rock and yellow arnica stand out against the pale cliffs. For a photo, include the stream in the lower frame so the valley’s steep sides have scale.

Fish Lakes is a backcountry campground, not a vehicle trailhead. Reach it on foot from the Mosquito Creek Trailhead via North Molar Pass, and arrange the Parks Canada backcountry reservation and permit before leaving the road. High passes can stay snowbound into late June and streams are highest in early summer; check current conditions before setting out. Dogs are allowed on summer trails unless a restriction is posted, and must stay on a leash no longer than 3 metres.