Divide Peak was added in the third edition of Scrambles and seems to see less traffic than the classic peaks. It is certainly no less worthy than its peers and it makes for a lovely break from the crowds.
Our original plan on this day was Dolomite Peak, but a bear closure forced us to choose a new objective. Hurriedly flipping through the book, we spotted that relatively nearby Divide Peak had similar metrics, so we drove over. Divide Peak hadn’t previously been on my radar but, having now summited both mountains, I would actually say that I enjoyed Divide Peak a tad more.
The easy walk to Ross Lake took about 45 min. We saw one other group there, and no one else for the rest of the day. Divide Peak stands above the bright turquoise water of the lake.We continued past the lake for five or so minutes, hoping a trail would have formed at the turn-off, but nothing more than a piece of flagging tape was found. Thankfully the dense bushwhacking was very brief. Believe it or not, Dan is in this photo.The trees soon opened up and a clear avalanche path led the rest of the way to the base of the cliffs ahead.Looking back at the avalanche path we followed. The highway can be seen not far behind us and Ross Lake is out of view to the left.The avalanche path led to a gully, taking us up the left side of this photo. Once above the shelf (seen to the right), we will traverse right to the scramble line.We donned our helmets and began the traverse. This section is somewhat exposed with slabby spots and loose rock, making us grateful for the dry conditions.Looking back as Dan follows through the traverse section. The shoulder of Mount Niblock can be seen in the background.The scramble route climbs an obvious gully. The occasional piece of flagging tape along the line confirmed we were on route.Positive, juggy holds are plentiful, but a dusting of loose gravel gives the route a spicy feel.Looking back at Dan as he searches for solids holds in the chossy face. A piece of flagging tape can be spotted in front of his left hand.Nearly at the summit plateau, a chimney features leads to the top. The chimney is exited at the right, on an exposed, gravel-strewn ledge.Dan exits the chimney to the exposed ledge. I found downclimbing this on the return trip to be the crux of the day.Topping out at the large summit cairn. Mount Niblock (left) and Mount Whyte (center-left) can be seen in the background.Looking north from Divide Peak.Looking south along the ridge from Divide Peak, which forms the border between BC and Alberta. Popes Peak (center) makes for an impressive backdrop.We returned the way we came. We had taken note of a small cairn at the top of the scramble route, making it easier to find on the return trip. The line is difficult to spot until you are right on top of it.Looking down the tricky downclimb from the top. The difficult scramble rating for this mountain is fair.Nearly at the bottom of the scramble line. This photo captures the terrain well – Not the steepest thing I’ve scrambled, but very loose with some exposure.We hiked back out past Ross Lake, taking in one more view of Divide Peak (center). Our route had roughly followed the left shoulder.
We returned to our vehicle in 7 hrs 15 min, only to find that our beer had frozen in the cooler! Thankfully this was the only disaster of the weekend. Divide Peak is a difficult and exposed scramble that won’t appeal to everyone. But, for those comfortable at the grade, it’s a fun day with great views. Just don’t underestimate the power of a Yeti cooler.
Peak Bliss 