Vicuna Peak and Guanaco Peak

Vicuna Peak and Guanaco Peak near Hope, BC is a big day in the mountains and feels every bit of its 19.2 km length and 1200 m of gain. This out-and-back route is rated difficult for good reason: a long approach, a steep grind, and some exposed scrambling near the top of Vicuna. If you want a quieter alternative to the busier Fraser Valley summits with huge alpine payoff, this one delivers.

The day usually starts from the Zum Recreation Site, following a rough forest service road toward the trailhead with growing views of Vicuna Peak looming ahead. Once on the actual trail, it shoots straight up through forest, hits a boggy middle section that can swallow a shoe if you’re careless, then pops into open granite and wide-open views. The alpine here is all rock, ridges, and in late summer, ridiculous amounts of blueberries; Vicuna’s summit block has two fixed ropes on solid rock, adding a short, spicy scramble, while Guanaco Peak is a more straightforward tag from the saddle if you have the time and legs.

Recent hikers report the access road in rough shape: deep holes, rocks, and badly overgrown alder that will scratch your vehicle, so many people now park earlier or at the campsite and either walk or bike the 4–7 km in. Expect almost no shade and some muddy, boggy patches, so bring sun protection and waterproof or at least water-resistant footwear. Vicuna Peak and Guanaco Peak are best from roughly June to October when the route is snow-free, the ropes are accessible, and those alpine blueberries are at their best; start early to avoid racing daylight on the scramble and descent.