British
Columbia's Coast Mountains stretch the full length of the province,
from the Canada-US border in the south to the BC-Yukon border in the
north forming a natural barrier along the Pacific Ocean. Much of this
coastal range is a vast wilderness region of rugged snow-covered peaks,
huge glaciers, clear glacial fed lakes and rivers, and miles of spectacular
pristine scenery. This is a true BC treasure of natural breath taking
beauty that's not easily accessible; much of the region can only be
reached by helicopter or plane. Towering high above the central Coast
Mountains like a sentinel watching over the surrounding area is Mount
Waddington reaching a height of 4016m (13,172ft).
Mount
Waddington is named for Alfred Waddington, an early pioneer surveyor,
who tried to find an easy route from the coast to the BC interior's
Cariboo Region and the gold fields. His endeavor failed when in 1864
the surveyors and working party were meet by hostile indigenous people
of the Chilcotin and a brief skirmish occurred.
Waddington the highest peak in British Columbia is widely known as
one of North America's classic climbs and was first scaled in July
of 1936. Mountaineering experience is essential when planning to tackle
this challenging mountain with its steep peaks of ice covered rock.
The lower and middle sections are made up of glacier type terrain
that can be difficult to maneuver. Ascending to the top of this mountain
greatly depends on timing and weather. Conditions can variety from
one climb to the next climb, but plan on the adventure taking between
3 to 5 long, hard days of climbing. Climbers should be prepared for
steep snow, ice climbing, and rock climbing. There are other excellent
climbing opportunities in this region, but Waddington is the main
attraction.
