Get ready for a serious alpine workout, big mountain views, and top-tier camp banter because The Rainbow Ramblers are heading into the Garibaldi backcountry for an overnight push to Castle Towers! Make no mistake: Castle Towers is a grueling, high-volume scramble with massive elevation changes, loose scree, and a long day on alpine terrain. It’s a serious physical test, but the reward is one of the most iconic vistas in the park. If the weather plays hardball or our legs collectively protest, we’ll pivot to exploring Gentian and Corrie Peaks as backup objectives. Expect a tough, sweat-soaked effort, incredible ridge walking, and a solid crew to share the sufferfest.

Trip Plan:

Due to the Grand Fondo on Saturday, we will be departing Vancouver Friday evening and finding a place to camp somewhere in the S2S corridor.

The tentative route will be via the Cheakamus Lake trailhead, bypassing the Helm Glacier so no crampons will be required.

We will go over the trip plan and gear list in greater detail in the trip forum.

About Rainbow Ramblers:

This trip is organized by Rainbow Ramblers, the 2SLGBTQIA+ affinity group of the BC Mountaineering Club. We create a welcoming space for 2SLGBTQIA+ members and allies to connect, explore the outdoors, and support one another. Our trips are designed to be inclusive, respectful, and community-minded — with attention to accessibility and diverse experiences. Whether you’re a regular club member or new to BCMC, you’re warmly invited to join us! Read more about this affinity group here.

** We encourage allies to invite and bring the 2SLGBTQIA+ people in their lives to this event. **

2SLGBTQIA+* = Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, agender, asexual. Plus (+) represents other gender and sexual identities not listed in the acronym.