Hankin-Evelyn Ski Areas
The Hankin-Evelyn Backcountry Recreation area proved to be a new approach to backcountry skiing in the Bulkley Valley. Essentially a ski resort without lifts or groomers, a series of eleven cut trails are found below treeline with opportunity for alpine skiing in any number of bowls. This model leaves the daily ski objective up to your group, with something to put a smile on everyone’s face.
In 2008 local Brian Hall initiated the project with the assistance of Jay Gilden and the BV Backpackers Society. By 2010 the runs had been cut, an existing fire lookout upgraded to a winter ready cabin, and a new warming hut constructed. The project was adopted by the Bulkley Backcountry Ski Society and fell under the umbrella of Recreation Sites and Trails BC and remains managed by these organizations. Local businesses has long be faithful supporters, see our sponsors below! All road plowing is done with the help of donations and RSTBC, and maintenance on the trails by generous volunteers.
Hankin Mountain
Hankin Backcountry Ski Area features low elevation snowshoe and cross-country ski loops which are not trackset. Nine cut runs exist below treeline as well as an overnight cabin and day-use warming hut. Alpine bowls are accessible, as the cut runs extend to treeline, but are not however a part of the recreation area, please use your best judgement and caution when entering these areas. Be smart, prepared and aware, you are in the wilderness.
Directions
Head north of Smithers on Highway 16, and exit the highway on Kitseguecla Loop Road. Follow the signage for the ski area. Approximately 8km on Kitseguecla Lake Road before turning left onto the newly anointed Uptrack Forest Service Road for another 8km will bring you to the Hankin Mountain Parking Lot.
Warming Hut
Please respect our policy of allowing the warming hut found at the top of the cut runs to remain a day-use cabin. It was never intended to allow for overnight stay and as such is not equipped. You will find an emergency first aid kit, and some effects left by visitors over the years. Please sign our logbook to share your travels.
Fire Lookout Cabin
You can book the Fire Lookout Cabin for groups, it sleeps approximately six people comfortably. It is equipped with basic cookware, white gas stove (bring your own gas) and firewood. Please leave the cabin as you found it, and use the wood stove responsibly. Find a link to book this cabin below. All proceeds from booking this cabin go directly to maintaining this ski area and cabin!
Book the Fire Lookout
Evelyn Backcountry Ski Area
The Evelyn Backcountry Ski area provides access and egress to a variety of attractive alpine basins surrounding Elliot Peak, with two cut runs that extend to treeline. Please use your best judgment and caution accessing the backcountry.
Directions
Head north of Smithers on Highway 16, exit the highway on Owens Rd. (sign for Toboggan Creek Fish Hatchery), turn left onto Pope Rd., continue left onto Rope Rd. and a right onto Rauter rd. Go to the end of Rauter Rd and continue left till you reach a plowed parking area. This parking area is new for 2023, this map shows the new parking location as well as a safe route around the gravel pit that was recently active.
Maps:
This area is now on TrailForks, if you’re familiar with the app for your phone you’ll find it there after updating your area. If not, check it out below and get the app on your phone if you’re thinking you would like to have it!
Hankin – Evelyn Backcountry Ski Area on Trailforks.com
BBSS recommends using a GPS enabled app, such as Avenza Maps if you are unfamiliar with our terrain. The maps below can be viewed in standard PDF format and allow for an application such as Avenza to show you were you are.
Evelyn-Elliott Map
Hankin Recreation Area Map
