Squamish’s Stawamus Chief Backside Trail Reopens Following Rock Slide

Why It Matters

The trail’s availability restores the primary, time‑efficient descent for thousands of climbers, supporting local tourism and outdoor recreation revenue. Its reopening also demonstrates BC Parks’ rapid response to geohazard mitigation, enhancing visitor safety.

Key Takeaways

• Trail reopened after rock scaling completed Feb‑Mar 2024
• Backside trail is Squamish's most frequented hiking route
• Closure forced hikers onto longer Slhanay detour
• Reopening aligns with peak rock‑climbing season
• BC Parks managed safety and reclamation efforts

Pulse Analysis

The Stawamus Chief, a granite monolith rising 700 meters above Squamish, British Columbia, has long been a magnet for climbers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its backside trail serves as the most heavily trafficked descent, linking popular routes such as the Buttress, Butt Light, and Angel’s Crest to the town’s trailhead. Each summer, the trail supports thousands of visitors who contribute to the local economy through guide services, gear rentals, and hospitality businesses. Restoring this corridor not only eases logistical challenges for climbers but also safeguards a key revenue stream for the region’s tourism sector.

In December 2023, two rock slides—on the 20th and again on the 26th—forced the immediate closure of the backside trail, prompting concerns over safety and access. BC Parks mobilized a specialized crew on February 27 to conduct rock scaling, debris removal, and slope stabilization, employing techniques such as bolt anchoring and netting to mitigate future failures. The reclamation effort, completed by March 27, adhered to provincial geohazard guidelines and incorporated real‑time monitoring equipment. This swift response highlights the agency’s capacity to address natural hazards while minimizing downtime for critical infrastructure.

The trail’s reopening dovetails with the onset of Squamish’s peak rock‑season, positioning the community to capture a full summer of climbing activity. With the primary descent back in service, hikers avoid the longer, less convenient Slhanay route, reducing trail wear and improving overall visitor experience. Ongoing surveillance will be essential to detect subtle shifts in the rock face, ensuring long‑term stability. For outdoor‑focused economies, the episode underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and rapid hazard mitigation to sustain both safety standards and economic vitality.