Parkhurst Mountain

Parkhurst Mountain in Whistler is a serious objective, not a casual day hike. This 16.9 km out-and-back with around 1670 m of gain tops out near 2300 m and is rated extreme for good reason: glacier travel, exposed scrambling, and long hours on your feet. Most strong parties are moving for 6–10 hours, often splitting it over two days with a night at Wedgemount Lake.

The approach up from the Wedgemount Lake side is steep but straightforward, with a well-used trail to the lake and clear markings heading toward the Wedge–Parkhurst col. From there you’re on rough talus and scrambling terrain, then out onto the glacier where crampons or spikes and an ice axe make a big difference. The payoff is big alpine scenery the whole way: turquoise lakes below, the wedge-shaped bulk of Wedge Mountain across the glacier, and wide views over the Whistler backcountry from the summit ridge.

Recent reports say the Parkhurst Mountain route is in good shape, with the glacier in decent condition but ice caves starting to collapse and rockfall a real concern near Wedge. Nights are cold and windy up high, so bring proper layers if you’re camping by the lake or pushing for a sunrise or late-day summit. Expect snow and ice travel from roughly June through September most years, plan for route-finding and off-trail sections, and only head up here if you’re comfortable with scrambling, glacier gear, and moving efficiently in steep alpine terrain.