Canada’s best mountain to climb
Bag this peak in Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia
Black Tusk
Not only does this aptly named pinnacle stand out from Whistler-Blackcomb, calling to skiers all winter long, it’s also one of the easiest day-trip summits from Vancouver. Hike up the switchbacks from the Garibaldi Lake parking lot, through Taylor Meadows and follow the signs to Black Tusk Viewpoint, continuing up to the ridge and peak beyond. It’s a few moderate scramble moves up an obvious route to sea-to-sky views.
Length (return): 20 km; eight to 12 hours.
Elevation gain: 5,700 feet.
Directions: Take the Sea to Sky Highway 32 km north of Squamish to the Garibaldi Lake turnoff and drive to the parking lot.
Resources: Scrambles in Southwest British Columbia, by Matt Gunn ($30; cairnpublishing.com).
