Macbeth Icefield Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Macbeth Icefield
The Macbeth Icefield hike is an epic hike, but you need to make sure you have the right vehicle to get to the trail head. The last 2 km of the access road to Macbeth Icefield is 4WD only and the parking lot is small (4-5 cars).
Weather on this hike can vary immensely and the ground may be very wet, be prepared for changing weather. This hike is very remote, steep and challenging, but is one of the most beautiful hikes in the West Kootenays, and a favourite of almost every local.
The Macbeth Icefield trail is easy to follow. You begin by following the original road for roughly 1 km to the original trailhead. From there, you will begin ascending through the forest alongside the powerful Birnam Creek before entering the forest beneath Macbeth Icefield.
After the marshy forest comes the steepest and most challenging section of the Macbeth Icefield hike. You will be climbing up a trail that has some old wooden staircases where the land is too steep. Please check the condition of these stairs prior to use, some are very old and should be used with caution. The route goes up and over rocks and deadfall.
After a few hours of hiking through the forest you are greeted with a rocky landscape and views of the double waterfall from Macbeth Icefield. Here you follow the ridgeline that has been carved out by the receding glacier, all the way to the ice and its turquoise blue Greymalkin Lake.
Once you get to the top you can explore the surrounding area and enjoy the views of Macbeth Icefield from many different viewpoints.
Return the way you came, taking care on the steep descents.
Insider Hints for Macbeth Icefield
- Bring solid waterproof boots, it can be soggy at the start.
- Arrive early, the parking lot holds only 4-5 cars and although it is not frequently visited, it’s worth getting there early anyway to enjoy your full day at Macbeth Icefield.
- Leave some time to explore the rocks at the top.
- Take a lot of water with you, you can easily go through 4-5 liters on this hike.
- It can be cold at the top, always be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- There are a couple of campsites along Duncan Lake to stay for the night before or after (watch for the mosquitoes, this is marsh land).
Getting to the Macbeth Icefield Trailhead
The closest towns are Meadow Creek and Argenta – small rustic towns that are worth a visit in themselves. Access is south of Meadow Creek, off the main highway. Take a right onto Argenta Road and after crossing the river, go left at the 3-way, onto the unpaved Duncan Road. The road is approximately 20 km long, unpaved and rocky, but worth it. Leave early and follow the signs. After passing Glacier Creek campground at around 10 km from the highway, you need to ascend right to Glacier Creek Road. 10 km later you will reach a fork, turn left for Macbeth Icefield for another 1.9 km. It is steep, narrow and very rocky. 4WD is essential for this final 1.9 km.Route Information for Macbeth Icefield
When to do:
August and September
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Macbeth Icefield Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Macbeth Icefield
I did this hike a few years ago with my friends, and I think it was the most peaceful hike we ever had.
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- 09:00
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Very steep in some sections, but worth every step!
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Beautiful vantage at Paget fire. Typically short but worthwhile.
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It was a pleasant hike! Be sure to wear proper footwear to avoid slipping and getting injuries.
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I was blown away by the unforgettable views of the forest, marshlands, ridgelines, and landscapes throughout the entire hike!
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It was a rigorous climb to the top. The trail was pretty tough. It was great, but I probably wouldn't do it again.
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Our day trip here was truly a wonderful experience. We love the peacefulness of the surroundings.
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A great way to experience the wilderness. Prepare your camera for some wildlife spotting in the area.
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The trail turns more into a scramble up the rocks to get to the ice field. Make sure to bring lots of water on this hike. Great hiking experience.
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Icefield looks so beautiful! Love the terrains on this hike. It got so much to offer.
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