After many years we returned to Assiniboine Provincial Park for some hiking and exploration.   On our previous trip, we started at Bryant Creek and stopped at Magog Lake, then proceeded down past Og Lake to the Simpson River and over Citadel Pass to Sunshine, a distance of 48 km –  Assiniboine trails (pdf)  The biggest decision to make is how to get into the core of Assiniboine and where to stay.  There are 3 main backpacking options, one flying option, and three accommodations choices.

Backpack from Shark Mountain through Assiniboine Pass to Magog Lake

This route starts at the end of the Spray Lake Reservoir, south of Canmore.   This is a long drive, followed by a long hike.   We have found the long level track up the Bryant Creek Valley to be a slog without a lot of rewarding scenery, but it is the fastest route into the core area.     The climb through Assiniboine Pass is fairly easy with one steep section before emerging into the meadows north of Magog Lake.   This route takes about 6 hours.   If you want to get in there and set up camp to start some base camp hiking of the area, this is still the best choice.

Backpack from Lake Magog out through Wonder Pass

Hikers can also do this route on the way in, but most hikers go back out this way, creating a partial loop.   The climb to the top of Wonder Pass is only 2.5 km and is a gentle climb through beautiful meadows.   the steep descent down to Marvel Lake is easier in this counter-clockwise route.   This is a more pleasing route overall, but adds more distance to the way out.  

Backpack from/to Sunshine Meadows

From Magog Lake to Sunshine is 29km, too long to do in one day except for a few hardcore backpackers.   The climb over Citadel Pass is a challenge and after traversing Sunshine Meadows, hikers have to be there in time to take the shuttle down.   In either direction, this is a two day route.   We enjoyed the route, though, through Og Meadows, Valley of the Rocks, Golden Valley,  over Citadel Pass, and through Sunshine Meadows.   An additional challenge is to have a two-vehicle system, one at Sunshine and one at Shark Mountain, two hours drive away.    The route from Shark Mountain to Lake Magog and out to Sunshine Meadows is a premier backpacking route, best done in 4 or more days.  

Fly in by Helicopter

We flew in from Shark Mountain in 8 minutes.   It cost us $150 a person each way.   We brought in what we wanted as long as it was 40 pounds or less.   We arrived, settled in and then were off for a hike within an hour of departure.   The window views on the helicopter ride are very rewarding.   Six people at a time and their gear can be flown in (or out).   the whole system was very efficient and perfect for out needs – base camp and day hike.   Recommended (even for hardcore hikers).

Stay at the Magog Campground

We liked this well-designed large (29 sites) campground.   Sites are all on tent pads.   There is an open-air cooking shelter, tap water, outhouses, grey water pits, and bear-proof metal food containers.   The sites are in open forest and meadows on the hillside above Magog Lake.   You need to make a reservation which can be done on-line through Discover Camping BC.    This is one of the best backcountry campgrounds in BC.

Stay at the Naiset Huts

The 5 small cabins have bunk-style pads and sleep between 5 and 8.   There is no light and the cabins are very "rustic."   This is a close-quarters shelter alternative and if this is your choice, consider renting the whole cabin for your group.   Don't expect to get a quiet sleep if you are sharing the small space with 7 strangers.   We did like the cooking shelter building though that has running water, propane stoves, light and heat, metal kitchen counters and large tables for eating and visiting.   By choosing this option, you can leave your tent, sleeping pad, stove and fuel at home.   Tempting for backpackers, but we found the sleeping huts less inviting than our tents.

Stay at Assiniboine Lodge

This beautiful location may make the cost worthwhile.   You can fly in and have all your accommodations and meals taken care of for $260 per person, per night.   Day hike and enjoy Assiniboine.   For more information, go the Assiniboine Lodge site – link.

Recommendation

Decide to hike Assiniboine.   Fly in and stay at the Campground.   Dayhike for 3 days.    Include Wonder Pass to the viewpoint, the Nub, the lakes loop and Og Meadows (or Windy Ridge above).   Details of these hikes follow with the next posts.   Fly out or backpack out over Wonder Pass or Citadel Pass.