Mount Burgess

Overview

Mount Burgess (2,599 m) is the craggy twin‑summit backdrop to Emerald Lake and one of the park’s most storied peaks. It’s famous for the Burgess Shale discovery that changed our understanding of early animal life and for sweeping views once you earn the height.

What makes it unique

This is “Ten Dollar Mountain,” once featured on Canada’s $10 bill. In 1909, Charles D. Walcott found the Burgess Shale fossil deposit here—exquisitely preserved soft‑bodied creatures from the Cambrian Explosion. The north summit is officially Walcott Peak (the easier scramble); the more difficult south summit is Mount Burgess.

Ways to experience it

• Classic views from below: The mountain rises dramatically behind Emerald Lake and the lodge—prime postcard territory.
• Scrambling: Expect a gully‑dominated ascent with limited views until high on the mountain; the summit panorama is the payoff. Many parties tag both Walcott Peak (north) and Mount Burgess (south) in one outing.
• Burgess Shale guided hike: Access to the Walcott Quarry fossil beds is strictly guided and capped at small group sizes. The hike is strenuous (about 22 km, 825 m gain, up to ~11 hours).

Access notes

Routes approach from the Burgess Pass side (parking east of Field) or from the Emerald Lake area; both are documented in trip reports. For the fossil quarry, spots are limited and must be reserved in advance; only guided groups are permitted at the site.

What you’ll see

At the quarry, you’ll examine fine‑detail fossils—think eyes and gut contents preserved in shale. On the mountain itself, expect subalpine forest, rocky gullies, and big‑view summits taking in Emerald Lake, Yoho Valley, and neighboring peaks.

Difficulty and safety

Scrambling difficulty depends on your objective: Walcott Peak (north) is easier; Mount Burgess (south) is a more serious scramble. The long descent can be tough on knees, and there are narrow, mildly exposed sections. Weather shifts quickly—bring layers and rain protection. Bear advisories are posted at times; carry bear spray and know how to use it.

Best time to visit

Book the Burgess Shale hike as soon as reservations open (January); spaces go fast. Start early for long days, more stable weather windows, and unhurried time at viewpoints. Quarry access remains uncrowded due to strict group size limits.

Regulations

Fossil collecting is illegal and heavily penalized. Dogs and some age groups are restricted on the guided fossil hike. Follow all guide and park instructions.