Summer weather, spectacular scenery and tremendous views were our rewards for our backpack traverse over Buller Pass and Guinns Pass via Ribbon Lake.

Buller Pass west slope

After dropping a car at Galatea Creek, we started up Buller Pass from the west.

Ribbon Lake

We had lunch at 2p.m. just over the pass to escape a cold wind, enjoying the view of Ribbon Lake.

Descent of Buller Pass

The descent over Buller Pass was exceedingly steep and loose scree, with some ice and snow.

Buller Pass from Guinns Pass

The view of Buller Pass from Guinns Pass shows just how rugged this high country is.

Descent into Ribbon Lake basin

Below the harsh environs of the pass, the meadows were alive with green growth and flowers like butter cups and glacier lilies.

Ribbon Lake Campground

The campground is particularly comfortable, with central fire pits and tables and lots of firewood.

Ribbon Lake

North slope of Guinns Pass

The trail up Guinns Pass looks daunting from Buller Pass.

Approaching Guinns Pass from north

Seen close up, the approach is much more pleasant.

Some of the trail is still covered in snow, however, so some snow climbing was required.

4 Rocky Mountain Bighorn rams

We saw three young Rocky Mountain Bighorn rams (our mascot!) on the ascent.

Sharon, Stephen, Carl on Guinns Pass

Sharon, Stephen and Carl, coordinator and scribe, on Guinns Pass summit, with Buller Pass behind.

The skyline is dominated by The Fortress, looking south from Guinns Pass.

Just below the cool wind on the pass, we enjoyed a scenic lunch spot. We did not see the grizzly with 3 cubs reported by a young couple at the campground, but there was fresh scat. Both days were from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.