Splitboarding in Garibaldi Provincial Park (The Black Tusk)
Winter camping and splitboarding in Garibaldi Provincial Park is an unforgettable adventure for those seeking solitude, stunning landscapes, and a challenge. In late December, we embarked on a two-day trip to Taylor Meadows, guided by Aurora Backcountry, and experienced the magic of snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, and breathtaking views.
Here’s our trip report, complete with trail stats, tips for staying warm, and everything you need to know to plan your own winter adventure.
Garibaldi Lake in the winter
Trip Overview
Destination: Taylor Meadows Campground, Garibaldi Provincial Park, BC
Activities: Winter camping, splitboarding, and hiking
Guided by: Aurora Backcountry
Duration: 2 days, 1 night
Season: Late December
Hiking to Taylor Meadows
Day 1: Hiking in and setting up camp
We started our journey at the Rubble Creek Trailhead, the main access point for Garibaldi Provincial Park in the winter. Due to the lack of snow at lower elevations, we packed runners and microspikes and hiked the first section of the switchbacks with our split boards a-framed on our packs. Once we hit consistent snow, we transitioned to skinning, which made the journey much smoother.
Camp at Taylor Meadows, Garibaldi Provincial Park
Trail Stats to Taylor Meadows
Distance: ~9 km (one way)
Elevation Gain: ~900 meters
Time: 4-6 hours (depending on conditions)
Upon arriving at Taylor Meadows, we set up our 4-season tent from The North Face (The Summit Series VE 25).
Quick Tips for Setting Up a Tent in the Snow
Use a 4-Season Tent: Designed for snow, wind, and cold.
Pack Down the Snow: Stomp or shovel a flat, firm platform.
Anchor Securely: Use snow stakes, deadman anchors, or buried objects (e.g., skis, trekking poles).
Build a Windbreak: Dig a snow wall or use natural features for protection.
Create a Vestibule Pocket: Dig out space at the door for gear and cooking.
Ventilate: Keep rainfly vents open to reduce condensation.
Practice Leave No Trace: Fill holes and pack out all trash when leaving.
After setting up camp, we headed up to the base of Black Tusk for some splitboarding laps. The views of Garibaldi Lake, not yet fully frozen, were absolutely stunning.
Winter in Taylor Meadows, Garibaldi Provincial Park
Trail Stats to Black Tusk (from Taylor Meadows)
Distance: ~6 km (one way)
Elevation Gain: ~500 meters
Time: 2-3 hours (depending on conditions)
Back at camp, we warmed up in the Taylor Meadows warming hut and enjoyed a hearty dinner. I had my favourite Alpine Aire dehydrated meal the Forever Young Mac and Cheese, cooked in my Jetboil Flash, which totally hit the spot, followed by a delicious brownie from Cloudburst Cafe for dessert.
That night, we slept cozy and warm in our tent, my sleep system consisted of the Mammut Protect Down sleeping bag, Sea to Summit Reactor Extreme liner, Nemo Tensor Sleeping Pad plus a Therm-a-rest Z-lite Sol closed cell pad. Winter camping was less intimidating than I expected—though getting up to pee in the middle of the night was definitely the worst part!
Views of the Black Tusk, Garibaldi Provincial Park
Day 2: Tree laps and heading out
The next morning we had planned to head up to Panorama Ridge, one of the most iconic viewpoints in Garibaldi Provincial Park but the weather had different plans. There was a storm system rolling in so our guides quickly pivoted and we rode some trees and lower risk terrain instead
Views of Garibaldi Lake from the forest
After a few laps on our splitboards, we returned to Taylor Meadows to pack up camp and begin our journey back to the parking lot. We hit the switchbacks in the dark, hiking out with headlamps, and reflected on an incredible first experience with winter camping.
Skiing above Garibaldi Lake
Permit and Park Details for Winter Camping
Permits: Winter camping in Garibaldi Provincial Park is free, but all visitors must register for a backcountry camping permit through the BC Parks website.
Park Access: The Rubble Creek Trailhead is the primary winter access point. Parking is available but can fill up quickly on weekends.
Facilities: The Taylor Meadows warming hut is available for day use and provides a sheltered space to cook and warm up.
Tree skiing in Garibaldi Provincial Park
Tips for Staying Warm While Winter Camping
Layer Up: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell.
Sleep Warm: Use a down sleeping bag rated for winter temperatures and pair it with a foam or inflatable sleeping pad for insulation from the cold ground. Sleep with your clothes and any gear/electronics that you need to keep warm in your sleeping bag.
Stay Dry: Avoid sweating by adjusting layers as needed. Bring extra socks and gloves in case they get wet.
Eat and Hydrate: Consume high-calorie meals and drink plenty of water to stay energized and warm.
Hot Water Bottle: Fill a Nalgene with hot water and place it in your sleeping bag for extra warmth at night.
Winter camp in Taylor Meadows, Garibaldi Provincial Park
Winter camping and split boarding in Garibaldi Provincial Park is a challenging but rewarding experience. With proper preparation, the right gear, and a sense of adventure, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the park in its winter splendor.
Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry enthusiast or a first-time winter camper, this trip is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Gear
I’ve put together a Backpacking Checklist with a complete list of gear recommendations.
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