Ribbon Creek / Ribbon Falls

Dist: 26km   Elev: 610m   Time: 7h   Difficulty: 2/5

Day 1: 15km, 550m, 4h       Day 2: 11km, 60m, 3h

Jeff and I wanted to do a backpacking trip, but he had just come off a night shift and needed to do it with only an hour or two of sleep in the tank.  Ribbon Falls was the perfect balance of distance/elevation, and ended up being a great trip.

DAY ONE: Ribbon Creek - Ribbon Falls
The hike to Ribbon Falls is somewhat long but relatively easy, filled with beautiful views of surrounding mountains and crystal-clear cascading water.  The trail follows Ribbon Creek, crossing over it many times as it winds through the forested valley between Mt Kidd on the left (SE) and Mt Bogart on the right (NW). All elevation gain is subtle and barely noticeable. After about 11km, the trail arrives at the Ribbon Falls backcountry campground.

Jeff and I dropped our packs, made camp, cooked up some "Mr. Noodle" for lunch, and waited out some light rain while enjoying a nap in the tent with the sound of the falls in the background.  Once the rain stopped, and with a few hours of remaining daylight, we decided to explore the 2km trail leading past Ribbon Falls and up to Ribbon Lake above. This route involved a short and steep climb through the trees, followed by a scramble up the headwall assisted by chains embedded in the rock.  From the top, we explored Ribbon Lake's southeastern shore and were treated to a memorable sunset as the sun dipped below Mt Bogart.  Reluctantly, we made our way back to camp and enjoyed an evening around the fire with some fellow backpackers.

One of many creek crossings. Mt Kidd beyond.

Jeff is clearly enjoying the trip so far.

Buddies

Picturesque falls all along Ribbon Creek

As the first to arrive, we had our choice of campsites. Ribbon Falls behind.

Ribbon Falls

Headwall scramble begins

Jeff is quite the mountain man

Looking back at the valley through which we came. Mt. Bogart (L) and Mt Kidd (R)

Sunset above Ribbon Lake

Ribbon Creek, just above Ribbon Falls

DAY TWO: Ribbon Falls - Ribbon Creek

Jeff and I enjoyed a slow and relaxed pace on our second day, stopping frequently to take in the views and soak up the warmth of the early summer suns.  The gentle walk back made for a great morning, and we both agreed that we would return to Ribbon Creek in order to share this trail with others.



Ribbon Falls in the morning sun.

Until next time, Ribbon Creek.