📗 Hiking Guide for Manning Park's Frosty Mountain

⛰️ Overview

Frosty Mountain, located in E.C. Manning Provincial Park, is one of the most scenic alpine hikes in British Columbia, offering breathtaking views of the North Cascades, pristine alpine meadows, and ancient larch trees. The hike to the summit of Frosty Mountain is a challenging but rewarding trek, particularly stunning in the fall when the golden larches are in full color..

So, how hard is it?

💪 Trail Difficulty

Distance: 22 km round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,150 meters
Time: 8-10 hours
Difficulty: Difficult

How do you get there, park, and navigate the trail?

🚗 Driving Instructions from Vancouver

1. Take Highway 1 East (Trans-Canada Highway):
   • Head east on Highway 1 from Vancouver toward Hope.
2. Merge onto Highway 3 (Crowsnest Highway):
   • Take Exit 177 for Highway 3 East toward Princeton/Penticton.
3. Drive to Manning Park Resort:
   • Continue for approximately 60 km on Highway 3.
   • Turn right into Manning Park Resort, where you’ll find parking and the trailhead for Frosty Mountain.
4. Park at Lightning Lake Day Use Area:
   • From Manning Park Resort, drive a short distance to the Lightning Lake Day Use parking lot. This is where the Frosty Mountain trail begins.

🥾 Trail Instructions

1. Begin at the Lightning Lake Trailhead:
   • The trail starts at the far end of the parking lot. Follow signs for the Frosty Mountain Trail.
   • The initial section of the hike is through a lush forest with gentle elevation gain.
2. Ascend to Frosty Creek:
   • After approximately 4 km, you’ll reach the Frosty Creek campsite, a good rest stop with a creek for water.
   • From here, the trail begins to ascend more steeply.
3. Pass Through Larch Meadows:
   • After 8 km, you’ll enter the stunning alpine meadows filled with larch trees. In fall, the larches turn a brilliant golden yellow, creating a magical landscape.
   • This section provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Final Ascent to Frosty Mountain Summit:
   • The last 2 km to the summit involve steep, rocky terrain. This section is more exposed, so be prepared for wind and cooler temperatures.
   • Once at the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the North Cascades, including Mount Hozomeen and the surrounding peaks.
5. Return to Lightning Lake:
   • Retrace your steps back to the trailhead for the descent.

👇 Trail Tips, Summit Photos + Video of St Marks Summit, continued below...

💡Tips

Start Early: Frosty Mountain is a long hike with significant elevation gain. Starting early will help ensure you have enough daylight.

Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks: There are few water sources on the upper parts of the trail, so carry enough water for the entire hike.

Fall Colors: If you’re hiking in late September to early October, you’ll catch the golden larches, making this a popular time to visit.

Weather Preparation: The summit can be windy and cold, even in summer. Bring extra layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

🏕️ Camping Option

Frosty Creek Campsite: If you want to turn this into an overnight trip, the Frosty Creek campsite is a good spot to break up the hike. Be sure to carry all your camping essentials and follow Leave No Trace principles.

🤩 The Views

🦺 Best Practices

Notify Others of Your Plans: Share your hiking itinerary and expected return time.

Stay on Marked Trails: The trail is well-marked, but ensure you stay on the path, especially in alpine sections.

Wildlife Awareness: Be bear-aware and carry bear spray. The area is home to black bears and other wildlife.

Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, avoid disturbing the fragile alpine environment, and leave nature as you found it.