Hike to Grizzly Ridge near Highwood Pass

The hike starts at 2206 meters elevation Highwood Pass, and takes you through beautiful Pocaterra Cirque up to the peak of Grizzly ridge at 2767 meters, an impressive altitude to attain with only a 561 meter climb.

Park at the parking lot at Highwood Pass, and follow the interpretive trail to a small trail that branches to the left along the meadow and then meanders up through trees. You will pass by several less defined trails to the left that lead directly up to Highwood Ridge, stay on the main pathway.

The trail leaves the trees and about 30 minutes from the start, you will reach a small alpine tarn. Beyond the tarn watch for a cairn marking a fork to the left, towards Grizzly col. (The right fork heads to Pocaterra Ridge).

Follow this trail up the valley and then up the scree slope to the col between Mount Tyrwhitt and Grizzly Ridge. Mount Tyrwhitt will be on your right. Follow the trail to the left up to Grizzly ridge and then along the ridge to the peak.

You can return the same way, or alternately continue on along the ridge to Highwood Ridge and back to parking lot from the North end of Highwood Ridge.

Be aware that the weather can change suddenly up here, and always have additional layers of clothing.