About Esplanade

This page shows the current backcountry snow report, avalanche forecast, and weather conditions for Esplanade. Check the danger rating, field observations, and Doctor's Orders summary above before heading out.

The Esplanade region covers a remote extension of the Selkirk Mountains accessible from Revelstoke, centred on the Esplanade Range and the upper Goldstream River drainage that flows northwest toward Revelstoke Lake. This is one of the more wilderness-oriented regions in the North Columbia region, characterized by expansive glacier systems, heavily crevassed icefields, and the deep, forested valleys that define the northern Selkirk interior. Access is either by helicopter from Revelstoke or by extended ski touring from the upper Rogers Pass area, placing this region firmly in the expedition-level category for most parties. The snow climate is broadly similar to the Rogers Pass wet belt, with heavy maritime-derived snowfall feeding the large glacier systems and building a deep, well-consolidated base through the winter. The northern aspect of the region and its distance from the influence of warm Pacific intrusions means the snowpack runs somewhat colder than regions directly on the Rogers Pass axis, and persistent weak layers buried under storm snow can remain reactive for longer periods. Terrain traps and overhead hazard from large, complex slopes above are the dominant safety considerations in this heavily glaciated area.

Terrain within this zone includes: Esplanade Range, Goldstream River, northern Selkirks, Revelstoke.