This is definitely alpine granite, and as such you will encounter dirty cracks as well as loose and chossy sections. Those expecting clean Squamish-quality granite may be uncomfortable at times. However, those expecting and comfortable with alpine conditions will find a wealth of quality routes and unique terrain in a stellar setting. The views from the peak are spectacular.
None. The area is frequented by recreationalists, with established hiking trails and relatively good flagging. Sufficient use keeps the major trails in useable condition.
Easy though long approach and longer descent. Park at the Zopkios brake check (washrooms available), then walk northeast along the highway until you can duck into the woods. Cross a boggy stream section (may be very muddy during spring run off or after heavy rains), then continue into the woods. Follow the trail system up until you reach a boulderfield. Crossing the boulderfield will bring you to the southeast face of Yak. The whole approach takes about 1 1/2 hours.
Alternatively, once you hit the boulderfield, skirt along it uphill and to the right, and follow a series of generally well-marked trails and slab sections which eventually lead around the back of Yak to the northeast face. A number of routes start there.
The descent trail from the peak follows a pretty obvious trail down from the top and along the northeast face, then links up with the aforementioned approach trail. Follow it back to the highway, then your vehicle.
Descent from the peak takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, and moves over some pretty awkward terrain. Be careful. In spring, the descent can be complicated by the presence of a hanging glacier in the saddle between the false and true peaks of Yak, so crampons and an ice axe may be helpful for the descent. By mid to late summer, the glacier has usually melted, greatly simplifying the descent.
Park at the Zopkios brake check. You can park all day and overnight for free.
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theCrag.com is a free guide for rock climbing areas all over the world, collaboratively edited by keen rock climbers, boulderers and other nice folks.You can log all your routes, connect and chat with other climbers and much more...» go exploring, » learn more or » ask us a questionAuthor(s): Rich Wheater
Date: 2015
ISBN: 978-0-9877796-5-6
With 300 routes, 600 boulder problems and a handful of fine alpine objectives, Vancouver Rock Climbing provides comprehensive coverage of the diverse climbing scene around Vancouver, Canada.
5.10a | ★★★ Yak-Check |
★★★ Yak-Check 5.10a - Yak Peak Topo by Drew Brayshaw, from Markhor Peak
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