Randonnée au Mount Brewster : sentiers, carte et infos pratiques

Mount Brewster Trail Description

Mount Brewster is a premier backcountry hiking destination in Banff National Park, Alberta. This highly challenging 20.9-km out-and-back route is situated in the Canadian Rockies near Mount Norquay Ski Resort and ascends to the 2,859-meter summit in the Vermilion Range. This trail should only be attempted by experienced adventurers with solid backcountry skills.

Trail Route and Approach

The trailhead begins at the Mount Norquay Ski Resort parking lot. From here, hikers proceed north past the day lodge and Spirit Quad chairlift before veering left onto ski run #58 (Deerfoot Trail). This leads to the signed trailhead for Forty Mile Creek Trail. The approach follows excellent maintained trail along Forty Mile Creek for approximately 3.5 kilometers to the Mount Cockscomb Campground (FM-10). At the campground, the trail turns right into the forest, with approximately 10 minutes of light bushwhacking through the drainage before emerging onto Mount Brewster's open southwest gully. From this point, hikers continue ascending the alpine terrain toward the summit.

Camping and Backcountry

Mount Brewster is an excellent backcountry camping destination. Camping accommodations vary and can include designated campsites, dispersed camping options, or mountain huts. The Mount Cockscomb Campground (FM-10) serves as a key waypoint for accessing Mount Brewster. Backcountry camping regulations apply—consult Parks Canada for current requirements and camping permits.

Wildlife and Ecosystem

The Canadian Rockies ecosystem around Mount Brewster features alpine and subalpine vegetation zones. Wildlife includes mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and various alpine birds. Grizzly bears and black bears inhabit the region; proper food storage and bear awareness are essential. The area is relatively remote with low visitor density, increasing opportunities for wildlife observation.

Seasons and Conditions

Mount Brewster is accessible primarily between July and September. These months offer the most stable weather and snow-free alpine conditions. Early summer (June) may still have significant snowpack at higher elevations. Weather in the Canadian Rockies changes rapidly; expect afternoon thunderstorms, temperature fluctuations, and possible early season snow. Hikers should be prepared for exposed alpine conditions with minimal shelter.

Practical Information

Trailhead: Mount Norquay Ski Resort parking lot, near Banff, Alberta. The trail is maintained by Parks Canada. No services are available on the trail; all water and supplies must be carried or sourced from Forty Mile Creek (treat before drinking). Cell phone coverage is unreliable in the backcountry. Dogs are not permitted on Parks Canada trails in Banff National Park. A valid Parks Canada pass is required for entry to Banff National Park.