Loop C (#27)

Locally referred to as the "Blue Square 27" or "Wolverine Loop," this is one of the premier designated snowshoe routes for those seeking elevation and valley views without entering complex avalanche terrain.

Trail Specifications

• Distance: 6.0 km (3.7 miles) full loop.
• Elevation Gain: 231 m (758 ft).
• Estimated Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
• Difficulty: Moderate (Blue Square).

Route Navigation

• Trailhead: Lake Agnes/Mirror Lake Trailhead, just past the Chateau.
• Markers: Look for blue plastic squares with a white "27" pinned to trees.
• Key Junctions: Follow the Mirror Lake direction initially, then turn right at 300m onto the single-track Trail 27. Do not turn uphill toward Mirror Lake at the 500m mark unless equipped for avalanche terrain.

Avalanche Safety (ATES)

Loop C is rated Class 1 (Simple). It avoids known runout zones, but borders Challenging and Complex terrain.

• "Stop" Signs: Do not proceed past any Parks Canada "Stop" signs (marked with transceiver icons) unless you have AST-1 training and full rescue gear.

Gear & Etiquette

• Snowshoes: Essential for the mid-section meadows and forest sections which often have deep powder.
• Crampons/Cleats: Carry these for the icy initial 500m and final descent.
• Ski Crossings: Yield to skiers. Step over (not on) the parallel classic tracks. Cross at a 90° angle.

Scenic Highlights

• Mt. Temple Viewpoint (km 2.1): Perfectly framed view of the massive north face of Mt. Temple (3,544 m).
• Fairview Mountain (km 4.6): Unique perspective of Fairview Mountain's eastern shoulder and avalanche paths.
• Chateau Perspective: An elevated "backdoor" view of the Fairmont Chateau and Victoria Glacier.