Mount Burgess Trail

What you’re getting into

This is a steady, switchbacking climb to the Burgess Pass area with broad views over Field and a knockout overlook of Emerald Lake. It’s also the access corridor to the world‑famous Burgess Shale Walcott Quarry—open only on Parks Canada guided hikes. Expect a long day if you include the quarry; otherwise, the pass and viewpoint make a rewarding (and much shorter) turnaround.

Distance and difficulty

Plan on 13.7 miles (22 km) total if you’re doing the full guided day to the Walcott Quarry and back; groups typically take 8–11 hours. The grade is mostly gentle thanks to long, engineered switchbacks, but it’s still a strenuous outing with roughly 825 m of gain, some narrow/exposed sections higher up, and a descent that can pound the knees. If you turn around at the pass/viewpoint, your distance and time will be less.

Route preview

Start from the trailhead just east of Field and work up a long series of mellow switchbacks with growing panoramas over town and the valley. Near Burgess Pass (around 2,175 m), look for a short side path left to a celebrated Emerald Lake overlook. Stay on the main, signed trail at junctions—cairned footpaths near the upper switchbacks lead scramblers toward Mount Burgess and Walcott Peak and are not part of the hiking trail. Prominent signage marks the restricted Walcott Quarry spur; do not enter without a guide.

Why it’s cool

You get classic Rocky Mountain scenery—open alpine slopes beneath Mount Burgess and that emerald‑hued lake spread out below. If you’ve booked the guided extension, the Walcott Quarry reveals exquisitely preserved 508‑million‑year‑old marine life—one of Earth’s most important fossil sites.

Best time to hike

Late June through September is prime, when snow has cleared and conditions are safest. Go early in the day for cooler temps and calmer air at the pass; weekdays are quieter than weekends at this popular corridor.

Tips and logistics

• Reservations for the guided Walcott Quarry hike are essential and competitive; they typically open in January.
• Bring sturdy boots, layers, plenty of food and water, and trekking poles (very helpful on the long descent). If you’re on the guided quarry day, some hikers plan to refill en route with a filter.
• Mind the signage near the pass: the quarry route is restricted and monitored; fines apply for violations.
• If you’re here for scenery rather than punishment, the Emerald Lake viewpoint near the pass is a superb turnaround.