Have you experienced the fantastic meadows and mountain terrain along the Singing Pass trail? These awe-inspiring views are located close to Whistler in Garibaldi Provincial Park.
Since the 90s, the FMCBC has been working to resolve access issues for the Singing Pass trail, starting when the old logging road to the trailhead began to slump. Since then, another 5km of trails has been added – making the hike a 30km round-trip.
The plan to improve access at Singing Pass involves developing a new route on the north-side of Fitzsimmons Creek, starting at Lot 8, to rejoin the old Singing Pass trail on the south-side of the Creek. Lot 8 is managed by Whistler Blackcomb as part of the controlled recreation area or lease.
Earlier in 2020, the FMCBC applied to build this new access route via submitting an application to Recreation Sites and Trails BC. See the proposed access route in our previous article update.
The FMCBC recommends constructing a new footbridge bridge over Fitzsimmons Creek and building a short section of trail to connect routes. See the trail map for the proposed route.
Over the past several months, the FMCBC Recreation and Conservation Committee have sought approval from: First Nations, Whistler/Blackcomb (use of Lot 8 for parking), Whistler Sliding Center (use of access road), Innergex (use of the right of way at the IPP), and Recreation Sites and Trails BC (section 57 approval).
We’ve received a ‘green light’ approval from the Whistler Sliding Centre, Innergex, and the Resort Municipality of Whistler. We’re still awaiting written approval from Whistler/Blackcomb and Vail Resorts.
Jay MacArthur, a representative on the FMCBC Committee and Alpine Club of Canada (Vancouver section), met with Vail Resorts in early November to review the route. Prior to the meetings, Jay and Bryce Leigh (from one our member clubs – the Alpine Club of Canada Whistler section) – hiked the route in October.
To obtain funds to enhance the trail, including building a new footbridge, the FMCBC applied via the federal and provincial governments for an “Infrastructure Grant.” The estimated project cost is between $50,000 to $70,000.
Help to enhance the Singing Pass trail. Donate to the FMCBC trail access enhancements fund at https://mountainclubs.org/donate.
2021 Update: We are still waiting for approval from Recreation Sites and Trails BC for this project.
Why is a new parking lot nearer to the beginning of the original trail not being proposed? It appears that Whistler/Blackcomb has blocked access to the trail and is charging for parking. Why is a commercial operator allowed to block free access to a provincial park?