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The Rockwall: Helmet-Ochre Junction
Hiking Trail
Easy
3.77 mi
562 ft
An easy overnight backpacking trip, or one end of the difficult Rockwall trek.
For those hiking The Rockwall, this is either the first or last leg of the journey. If beginning the trek here and hiking north to south, most parties will choose to link this section with the next (Helmet Creek), but staying at Helmet-Ochre Campground is a good option for getting a late start or taking it easy on the first day. This hike also makes a good beginner-level backpacking trip on its own, as an out-and-back spending one night at Helmet-Ochre Junction. It begins at the popular Paint Pots trailhead, passing red mineral pools which are worth pausing to admire. At the uppermost pool, where most people turn around, backpackers will continue on the trail toward Helmet Creek. From then on, the walk is mostly through dense forest, but occasional clearings in avalanche paths provide open views. The track is mostly easy going, with a gentle grade traversing the slopes above Ochre Creek. There are some small creek crossings and some rock-hopping sections, but nothing too difficult. All along the way, and especially in the avalanche paths, berry bushes are abundant. When ripe, you may enjoy for yourself, but you should be especially cautious of bears at the same time. To conclude the section, a small bridge crosses Ochre Creek, with the campground on the other side. Sites have gravel tent pads and fire pits, set comfortably near the river. All overnight trips require a wilderness pass from Kootenay National Park, which must be reserved in advance. Sources: Written by Jesse Weber
For those hiking The Rockwall, this is either the first or last leg of the journey. If beginning the trek here and hiking north to south, most parties will choose to link this section with the next (Helmet Creek), but staying at Helmet-Ochre Campground is a good option for getting a late start or taking it easy on the first day. This hike also makes a good beginner-level backpacking trip on its own, as an out-and-back spending one night at Helmet-Ochre Junction. It begins at the popular Paint Pots trailhead, passing red mineral pools which are worth pausing to admire. At the uppermost pool, where most people turn around, backpackers will continue on the trail toward Helmet Creek. From then on, the walk is mostly through dense forest, but occasional clearings in avalanche paths provide open views. The track is mostly easy going, with a gentle grade traversing the slopes above Ochre Creek. There are some small creek crossings and some rock-hopping sections, but nothing too difficult. All along the way, and especially in the avalanche paths, berry bushes are abundant. When ripe, you may enjoy for yourself, but you should be especially cautious of bears at the same time. To conclude the section, a small bridge crosses Ochre Creek, with the campground on the other side. Sites have gravel tent pads and fire pits, set comfortably near the river. All overnight trips require a wilderness pass from Kootenay National Park, which must be reserved in advance. Sources: Written by Jesse Weber
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Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| To the Paint Pots! | 0.67 mi | 125 ft | 2.4% |
| Kootenay Highway Climb | 0.66 mi | 135 ft | 3.8% |
| Kootenay Highway Climb | 0.41 mi | 203 ft | 9.4% |