Zupjok Peak - Llama Peak - Alpaca Peak

Zupjok Peak – Llama Peak – Alpaca Peak is one of the classic ridge walks off the Coquihalla, just east of Hope in the Yale area of British Columbia. This 18.3 km out-and-back hike dishes out around 1320 m of gain and tops out near 2060 m, so it’s no stroll, but most hikers call it more “long and steady” than technical. You’re rewarded with three summits, big open meadows, and all-day views that make the drive and the grind absolutely worth it.

The route starts from Zopkios Rest Area, cruising up an old road and then into the forest before the real climb kicks in up to Zupjok. Once you pop out of the trees, the character changes completely: rolling alpine, a broad ridge, and a clear line heading over Llama to Alpaca Peak. Views start at Zupjok and keep improving as you go, with a mix of surrounding Coquihalla peaks, wide valleys, and a long, airy ridge walk that feels wild but not sketchy if you watch your footing near the edges.

Recent hikers say the trail is very easy to follow, with some muddy stretches in the first few kilometres and a short but punchy climb before the ridge. After that it’s exposed, windy on Alpaca, and hot on sunny days, so bring a wind shell, hat, and more water than you think you need; late summer water can be limited to a few tarns that need filtering or boiling. Expect bugs early season, chilly nights if you camp between Llama and Alpaca, and the odd bear snacking on berries, so carry bear spray and stay alert. Overall, Zupjok Peak – Llama Peak – Alpaca Peak near Yale is a solid full-day outing that feels tough mainly because of distance, sun, and the constant little ups and downs on the way back.