Pyramid Mountain
A young volcanic cone formed by an eruption beneath glacial ice. Shaped like a pyramid, its summit offers views over the lava plateau and lakes around Helmcken Falls.
Pyramid Mountain is a volcano that erupted beneath an ice sheet about 10,000 years ago. Because the ice confined the magma, it did not flow outward but built up a steep cone. It is a classic site for studying subglacial volcanism and belongs to the Wells Gray-Clearwater volcanic field. The trail begins beside the park's main road between Dawson Falls and Helmcken Falls. It passes through forest and lava flows before climbing a scree slope to the summit. The round trip takes about 4-5 hours, with charred volcanic cinders and small lakes along the way. The summit has wide views over the Murtle River valley and distant peaks. The route is not especially difficult but is long, making it a good choice for visitors who stay in the park for two days or more and enjoy geology and hiking.
Opening hours
All day (summer and autumn)
Nearby sights
- Dawson Falls
- Green Mountain Lookout
- Ray Farm & Mineral Spring
- Helmcken Falls
- Bailey's Chute
- Moul Falls
- Clearwater Lake
- Spahats Creek Falls