Byers Peak

Dogs Off-leash

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Byers Peak is one of the most visible peaks in the Winter Park & Fraser Valley. While a portion of the trail is on a closed off forest service road, a majority is on steep singletrack through forest and then climbing above tree line on rocky terrain. There is limited parking at the trailhead that could cause a longer approach, but the roads are good enough for passenger cars to make it. Bring a bike and ride the first couple miles along the jeep road if you want to skip to the hiking trail.

Once above treeline, the sun exposure can be severe, temperature and winds can change quickly, and summer monsoons pose a danger. Treat this peak as if it were a 14er - plan on being doing in the early afternoon. In addition, there are many very steep sections above tree line as well with some exposure, so be careful.

From the gate at the trailhead, start out along a closed off forest road that winds steeply for the first couple miles. The road ends at a small stream where there is a bike rack and a nice flat area. From here it's singletrack to the top of the peak.

The start of the hiking trail leads through lush, dense forest with lots of small streams to cross. As you ascend, the ground gets much rockier and rougher. Once you reach tree line, the trail is primarily rock and loose gravel, and you'll have to cross a few false summits on your way to the top.

Once you're finally at the summit, take in the 360-degree view and allow yourself time to check out the amazing ecosystem up here. Notice the small but amazing wildflowers that have the ability to grow at this elevation, and look around for mountain goats!

Much of this hike is through the Fraser Experimental Forest. The trees are primarily pine with stands of aspen mixed throughout. Keep your eye out for moose, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.