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Hike Trail

Great Divide Trail - Howse River Alternate Route

2.0 (1 Rating)
GDT Alternate Route through the fir forest to bypass the Howse River gravel flats during high water times.
8.6
mi
Distance
329
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
BirdingCommonly BackpackedRiver/CreekViewsWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
8.57mi
Distance
329ft
Elevation Gain
702ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
5,247ft
High Point
4,724ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Great Divide Trail - Section D (Field to Saskatchewan Crossing) Alternate Route. This Alternate Route follows the forested Howse River Trail that can be overgrown and with deadfall in places. But it is on higher ground than the main GDT route that is down on the Howse River gravel flats. Therefore, when all or part of the main GDT route is impassable on the gravel flats due to high water levels, one can use all or parts of this alternate route instead. This alternate route meets up with the main GDT route in several spots. Please see the resources listed above under Need to Know for up to date detailed descriptions and valuable information. History Through 2018, the main GDT followed this route on the Howse River Trail. But the Howse River Trail has become overgrown here, and deadfall has built up over the years. Therefore, in January 2019, the main GDT route was moved to the scenic and more pleasant Howse River gravel flats.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Joan Pendleton