Roche Miette Hike
Roche Miette is a scrambler’s favourite destination in Jasper National Park. The mountain is named after a traveller who decided to climb the big rock on a dare. The Rocke Miette hike is a steep path that features breathtaking landscapes. Hiking to the summit of Roche Miette will remain a remarkable accomplishment. Here is what you need to know before adventuring on this beautiful mountain.
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About the Roche Miette Hike
From forest to meadows to loose scree, this challenging trail is not for the faint of heart. A moderate to challenging scramble is involved in the last section of the trail. A helmet is recommended as rockfalls are common and even frequent, especially when there are hikers above.
The mountain is found not far from the small tourist town of Jasper in Alberta, about 40 kilometres east on the Yellowhead Highway towards Edmonton. You can park along the highway at the entrance of an access road on the south side of the road; this is where the trail begins.
Before venturing on this mountain, make sure you have the appropriate gear. This is a full-day hike.
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Hiking to the summit of Roche Miette
The Approach
The trail starts on the access road where you park. After about one kilometre of walking on the old gravel access road, the path makes a sharp right turn when it seems like you’ve hit the end of the access road. The trail winds its way through a dense forest toward the peak.
The path is not always obvious, and having a GPS map handy is convenient. Little by little, the trees become sparse, and the forest gives way to scree.
You might enjoy several breaks to catch your breath as you climb the gullies carved on the mountainside. The loose scree will make the ascent slower. But, once you reach the ridge, the views are spectacular… and so is the wind.
The trail continues on the ridge for a bit as you enjoy the view of the Athabasca River and the mountains in the distance. You soon reach a clearing dotted with conifers. A lunch break is in order here. The last stretch to the top is visible and rises in front of you, which is impressive.
The Scramble
It is, therefore, mainly on all fours that you will begin your ascent on this steep rock. You might have to hide behind giant boulders to avoid the falling rocks loosened by hikers higher up the mountain. Stones roll down at alarming speed. This is why some recommend a helmet.
This part of the climb is slow, as most hikers will constantly question the best route. The unstable rocks threaten to take us with them as they roll down the mountain. Little pink ribbons have been tied to small cairns to indicate a good route, though few options are available.
The Summit
After a few hours of climbing, you will finally walk on the plateau at the top of this beautiful mountain. Small shrubs here and there and lichen cover the rock. From all sides, the views are breathtaking.
The Descent
The descent is back the same way, but it is much faster. The side of the mountain is perfect for practicing scree running. You can let yourself slide on the rocks and pebbles, heels deep in.
You will soon find yourself in the meadow again. Don’t forget to turn back and look up at the peak of this magnificent and frightening mountain.
A must for climbers in the region!
I attacked Roche Miette with confidence and finished with pride! A beautiful mountain with wonderful views the whole way!
-Adventuresome Jo
More Hiking like Roche Miette
- Pyramid Mountain Hike in Jasper
- Indian Ridge Hike Guide in Jasper National Park
- Scramble up to Mount Temple’s Snowy Summit
- Hiking Guide to Mount Rundle’s Summit
- Tips on Hiking the Tower of Babel
- Hiking Guide to the Summit of Cascade Mountain
- Tangle Ridge Hike Guide in Jasper National Park
- You might be interested in this list of 27 summits for beginner peak baggers and scramblers in the Rockies.
- My Guide to the ultimate road trip through the Canadian Rockies will give you plenty of hiking and outdoor adventure ideas as you explore this unforgettable region.
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