Round Mountain is a summit located in Garibaldi Provincial Park. In the winter it's a quite popular destination for beginner ski tourers and splitboarders given its mellow terrain.  Round Mountain is the highest point along Paul Ridge.

This is a beginner-friendly event. I just got a splitboard and It'll be my first time doing a "real" objective. All levels are welcome, but we will take our time doing the transitions. If we have time we will do a few laps along Paul Ridge.

You can read a trip report from Shashi's blog.

Hike Details

• Trail:  Round Mountain trail
• Duration: 5-6 hours.
• Distance: 12km.
• Elevation gain: 663m
• Overall Difficulty: Easy.
• Ski/Ride level: Intermediate.
• Scrambling/Exposure: None.

Meeting Details

• Time: 7:30 am.
• Location: St David's United Church.
• Carpooling Fee: recommended $27 round trip for up 2 passengers, and $20 for 3+ passengers.

For driving up to the trailhead (Diamond Head) winter tires and chains are required.

Trail Descrption

We’ll start from the parking lot at the Diamond Head area and follow the winter trail to the Red Heather Hut, a perfect spot for a quick break. From the hut, we’ll skin through unmarked terrain towards the Round Mountain summit, navigating moderate inclines and beautiful open snowfields. Expect incredible views of the Tantalus Range and surrounding peaks.

Avalanche Conditions

AST-1 and avalanche safety gear are optional for this trip as we will stay on low-angle terrain. In addition, I'll check the Avalanche forecast the day before. If there's a sudden change in the avalanche forecast the day before, the trip might be canceled or switched to a different objective.

What to bring

1. Ten Essentials: North Shore Rescue's recommended list.
2. Skis / splitboard.
3. Skins.
4. Layered Clothing: Including a waterproof layer; expect lower temperatures at higher elevations.
5. Water: At least 2 liters.
6. Food and Snacks.
7. Gloves.
8. Poles.
9. Optional Items: gaiters, avy gear (beacon, probe, shovel).