Backpack the Watchtower Basin

The beginning of the trailhead descends down to the Maligne river where hikers have to rock hop due to the bridge being washed away in 2012. Soon after the river the elevation steadily climbs through dense forest. After about 20 minutes the forest opens into the charred aftermath of the Excelsior wildfire (2015.) The trail is clear through the 3km of burned forests and provides views of the surrounding Maligne valley.

After re-entering the forest the trail follows Excelsior Creek through the lower slopes of the valley. Around 6 km the trail turns South and opens into the Watchtower Basin. This stretch of the hike provides a 360° view of the basin and the surrounding peaks.

As the trail continues up the valley it winds along the creek through chest high brush. This section of the trail is poorly marked and can be very muddy depending on the time of year, so expect wet boots. At about 9 km hikers will come across a stump hammered into a tree guiding you to the campsite. From here a creek must be forded to access the camp site. The campsite is equipped with 4 tent pads, 2 picnic tables , a bear pole and a wooden throne with a fairly nice view.

From the campsite the trail is difficult to distinguish and even disappears at a few spots. Just keep following the creek and hiking towards the headwall. Later season hikers may encounter snow at this point (It was knee deep at the beginning of September). The climb up up the headwall follows several markers before meeting up with the Skyline trail at Shovel Pass.