Pulsatilla Pass

This is a one-way route of about 57.7 miles (92.8 km) from the Fish Creek Trailhead near the Lake Louise ski area to the Mount Norquay end. The mapped line is stored in the direction from Fish Creek to Mount Norquay and follows the full visitor experience represented by this record, including Boulder Pass, Ptarmigan Lake, Baker Lake, Wildflower Creek, Pulsatilla Pass, Badger Pass Junction, Mystic Pass, and the Forty Mile Creek approach. Allow roughly 32.75 hours of hiking time spread across multiple days; Parks Canada describes the Sawback as a challenging trip with various possible itineraries.

Expect long forested approaches, rocky and rooty singletrack, alpine meadows, scree and rubble, boggy sections, and stream crossings. The route passes designated backcountry campgrounds, including Baker Lake, Wildflower Creek, Badger Pass Junction, Johnston Creek or Luellen Lake, Larry’s Camp, and Mystic Junction, depending on the itinerary and direction. The mapped route is point-to-point, so plan transportation between the Fish Creek and Mount Norquay ends before starting.

Difficult overall because of its length, remoteness, elevation changes, limited signage, and multi-day commitment. This is bear country with rapidly changing mountain weather. Carry bear spray, reliable navigation, food and water-treatment supplies, and gear for cold, wet conditions. Be prepared for stream fords and for sections that may be used by commercially guided horse trips.

The primary start is Fish Creek Trailhead near the Lake Louise ski area. Parks Canada notes that public transit reaches Lake Louise Village and that Fish Creek is about a 40-minute/3.5-km walk from the village; trailhead parking is limited. The far end is at the Mount Norquay side of the traverse, so arrange a shuttle, vehicle transfer, or other end-to-end plan. Backcountry permits and campground reservations are required; check Parks Canada’s current backcountry information, trail conditions, access rules, and restrictions before departure.