Black Tusk

July 23, 2021

Distance: 26km round-trip

Elevation gain: 1661m

Time required: 8-10 hours

Black Tusk is an iconic peak in Garibaldi Provincial Park. The summit sits at 2319m elevation and has phenomenal 360-degree views. Many people only hike to the base of the Tusk as getting to the summit requires a class 4 scramble. However, it is not that difficult for those who are experienced with scrambling and let me tell you, it is so so worth it.

I did this hike on a gorgeous July day where the sub-alpine wildflowers were out in full force. I started at the Rubble Creek trailhead and started making my way towards Garibaldi Lake. The elevation gain is gradual. Past Taylor Meadows are meadows full of beautiful wildflowers. I also saw a marmot.

The Black Tusk sticks out from Taylor Meadows

Beautiful meadows and trail in Taylor Meadows

Sub-alpine wildflowers featuring western pasqueflower, sitka valerian, and arctic lupine

This hoary marmot was doing some good munching

Once past the meadows, I started climbing the steep scree slopes that lead towards the Black Tusk. There are excellent views on these barren ridges. Down the east side of the ridge is a massive glacier.

Climbing up the scree slopes towards the Tusk

Rocky spires of the lower Black Tusk

Looking back on the ridge

Looking south from the base of the Tusk. The glacier below the ridge is visible along with Panorama ridge behind it and Garibaldi Lake on the right (click to expand)

The class 4 scramble starts on the southwest face. It is a very short section. I then did some more high class 3 scrambling to reach the summit. It took me 4 hours total.

Valley and glaciers to the south east (click to expand)

Glaciated rocky peaks to the south west. Garibaldi lake on the left.

Close up of Garibaldi Lake

I spent quite awhile on the summit before hiking down to Garibaldi Lake. I spent a good 45 minutes there as well, soaking my feet and enjoying the views. I then made the rest of the journey back down to the parking lot, capping my day off at 8 hours and 45 minutes.

Crossing the west side of Garibaldi Lake

Stunning views of the glaciers north of Garibaldi Lake

The iconic aquamarine blue of Garibaldi Lake (the colour is due to the cold temperature)