The best walks and hikes in the Ogilvie Mountains

Hiking in the Ogilvie Mountains offers a range of difficulties. You'll find options from easy paths, such as Goldensides Mountain, to moderate and difficult routes. The region is known for its challenging alpine terrain, glacial valleys, and scree slopes, often requiring experienced hikers to navigate off-trail through mountain passes and ridges.

The Ogilvie Mountains are rich in dramatic natural features. You can expect to see jagged granite peaks like Tombstone Mountain and Mount Monolith, along with glacial valleys and numerous rivers such as the Blackstone River. The region is part of Tombstone Territorial Park, which is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Other highlights include the potential for stunning waterfalls and vibrant fall colors.

Yes, there are family-friendly options available. Trails like the North Klondike River Trail — Tombstone Territorial Park are rated as easy and follow the river through scenic areas, making them suitable for families. These routes provide an accessible way to experience the region's beauty.

While the Ogilvie Mountains offer vast wilderness, specific regulations regarding dogs can vary, especially within protected areas like Tombstone Territorial Park. It's always best to check the current park rules and local guidelines before bringing your dog to ensure a safe and compliant hike for everyone.

The best time for hiking in the Ogilvie Mountains is typically during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the weather is milder and trails are generally free of snow. This period also offers the best chance to experience the vibrant fall colors and abundant wildlife. Outside of these months, conditions can be very challenging due to snow and extreme cold.

For general hiking in the Ogilvie Mountains, specific permits for individual trails are not always required. However, if you plan to undertake multi-day backcountry trips, especially within Tombstone Territorial Park, it is advisable to check with the park authorities for any registration or permit requirements, particularly for camping or extended stays in the wilderness.

The remote wilderness of the Ogilvie Mountains is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers frequently encounter caribou, Dall sheep, and moose. There's also a chance to spot larger predators like grizzly bears, wolverines, and wolves. Observing these animals in their natural habitat is a significant draw, but always remember to maintain a safe distance and carry bear spray.

Yes, the Ogilvie Mountains offer some circular hiking routes for those who prefer not to retrace their steps. An example is the difficult Viewpoint of Grizzly Lake – View of Grizzly Lake loop from North Klondike River, which provides a comprehensive experience of the area's stunning landscapes. Another option is the moderate Angelcomb Peak loop from Angelcomb Peak.

Hiking in the Ogilvie Mountains offers a truly wild and remote experience, often described as an untouched wilderness far from civilization. The region's defining characteristics are its jagged granite peaks, diverse and challenging alpine terrain, and the opportunity for self-guided exploration where you often choose your own path. It's ideal for those seeking an authentic backcountry adventure.

Given the remote and challenging nature of the Ogilvie Mountains, it's crucial to pack for varying conditions. Essentials include sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing for changing weather, rain gear, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), sufficient water and food, a first-aid kit, and bear spray. Be prepared for sudden weather shifts and self-sufficiency.

The Ogilvie Mountains are traversed by the Dempster Highway, which provides primary access to the region, including areas within Tombstone Territorial Park. While some trailheads, like the Goldensides Mountain Trailhead, are accessible by car, public transport options are extremely limited or non-existent. Many expeditions require private vehicle access, and some remote starting points may even necessitate floatplane access.

The Ogilvie Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region for its unparalleled wilderness, dramatic scenery, and the sense of adventure it provides. Many appreciate the challenging terrain and the opportunity to explore truly remote landscapes.

Trail conditions in the Ogilvie Mountains can be highly variable and often rugged. Many routes involve traversing challenging alpine terrain, scree slopes, and glacial valleys. While some established trails exist, like the North Klondike River Trail, many expeditions involve choosing your own path through mountain passes and rivers, meaning conditions can be unmaintained and require significant navigational skills.