Lord of the Squirrels

There have been sightings of a grizzly bear, specifically around the cabin and 3-way junction of Into the Mystic, With a Twist, and On the Rocks. Trail users are reminded to be aware, be prepared, and there are no dogs allowed on the trail network. Be bear aware by never hiking or biking alone; respecting any trail closures; being alert to bear signs (scat, prints, tree markings); and carrying bear spray (and knowing how to use it in the event of an encounter).

Trail Rating – Black
Exertion Rating – Black
Exposure Rating – Black
Time - 3-8+hrs return from valley

DOGS ARE NOT PERMITTED on the Mount Sproatt and Rainbow Mountain Alpine Trail Network to minimize potential conflict with wildlife.

E BIKES ARE NOT PERMITTED on these trails (i.e. anything above Flank: Lord of the Squirrels, Into the Mystic, With a Twist, On the Rocks, Happy Hour, Pot of Gold, LESS & Don't Look Back). The reason for this is to support environmental considerations, user safety and grizzly bear management in the alpine.

WARNING - While the Sproatt alpine network is comprised of blue rated trails, the effort and exertion required to successfully and safely complete the loop rides definitely lands on the more difficult side of the spectrum. Sproatt may seem close to civilization, but this ride is a true backcountry experience and needs to be treated with the respect it deserves. Riders should treat this endeavour as any other remote ride and come well prepared for any and all eventualities. In addition to the effort required to get to the start of Into the Mystic, the shortest return loop on Into the Mystic, On The Rocks, Lord of the Squirrels specifically is ~20km of distance plus ~1400m of climbing in a high alpine, exposed environment. PLEASE TAKE TIME FOR SERIOUS CONSIDERATION OF YOUR FITNESS AND SKILL TO COMPLETE THIS RIDE.

Riders and groups should be prepared with sufficient water, food, spare parts for repairs and a well stocked first aid kit including a head lamp. A spare jersey and/or gloves and jacket should also be a part of your kit for fast changing alpine weather which can find you locked into fog and rain very quickly.

Riders must ride accordingly and well within their limits as this is a remote area with limited access for rescue. Ride with a trusted group, take your time not chances, this will ensure you make it back to the bottom in one piece.

Lord of the Squirrels is WORCA's showpiece trail constructed over 3 years from 2014-2016. This trail features great viewpoints of the Whistler Valley and beyond as it winds it's way down through the alpine and into the Westside's mossy old growth forest above the Flank trail. This trail features open sections in the alpine, some rock slab features, and the occasional ladder bridge.

It's critical that users respect this unique alpine environment while using this trail and always remain on trail. Freeriding off-trail in the alpine is not acceptable. This alpine trail network is non-motorized and was built for users reaching the top under their own power, motorized use or helicopter access is not appropriate. Please avoid use of the alpine areas in periods of extended rain or early/late season when the trail may not have time to dry out. Help us preserve this incredible new asset by respecting the trail, closures, other users, and the amazing alpine environment.

Timid riders be warned: WET conditions ramp up the technical difficulty of this trail more so than lower elevation trails.
Similar technical intermediate "test rides" in the valley are:
Full Zappa route in lost lake (specifically descending Pinocchio's furniture, Toads of the Short Forest and The Grand Wazoo)
Whipped Cream > Green Jello > A Cut Above on the west side
Funshine Rolly Drops > Blueseum > Devils Club in the Whistler bike park

Access Info

LOTS begins high in the alpine at the end of On the Rocks, and takes approximately 2-3 hours to reach from the start of Into the Mystic for an average rider. Access to Into the Mystic is recommended by one of the following 3 routes;
Function Junction - https://www.trailforks.com/route/into-the-mystic-function-access/
Creekside - https://www.trailforks.com/route/into-the-mystic-creekside-access/
Rainbow Park - https://www.trailforks.com/route/into-the-mystic-rainbow-park-access/

Disclaimer

This is a Backcountry trail, please be prepared for changing weather, conditions and mechanical failures. NO E-BIKES, NO DOGS IN THE ALPINE.