We will meet at 6 pm in Canmore, the location of which is TBD. Meet your guide! Here, we will review any last-minute details, pass out the group gear, and discuss the trail conditions and weather.

Mount Shark Trailhead to Bryant Creek Campground

13 km+300 m

13 km, 300m gain (please note ALL distances and elevations are approximate).

We begin our journey at the Mount Shark Trailhead, following a well-established trail through forested valleys and along the Bryant Creek drainage. This is a steady, approachable first day that allows time to settle into the trip's rhythm. At the end of the day we'll overnight at Bryant Creek Campground.

Highlights: Easy travel day, creek views, gradual immersion into the Assiniboine backcountry

Bryant Creek to Magog Lake via Wonder Pass

14 km+800 m

14 km, 800m gain

Today we climb steadily toward Wonder Pass, one of the classic approaches into Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. As we crest the pass, the landscape opens dramatically, revealing Mount Assiniboine and the surrounding peaks. We descend into the Lake Magog area and set up camp at Magog Lake Campground.

Highlights: Wonder Pass, first views of Mount Assiniboine, alpine scenery

The Nub via Sunburst Lake trail

9.86 km+700 m

9.86 km, 700 m elevation gain

This high alpine hike features stunning views of Elizabeth Lake, Sunburst Lake,  and Mount Assiniboine. Our objective for the day is Nub Peak (2755 metres).

Along the way we'll pass the Nublet (2537m) and have the option to return descend past The Niblet (2382m) en route back to our camp at Lake Magog.

Highlights: Wilderness glacier views, alpine meadows, Elizabeth Lake, Nub Peak, Mount Assiniboine

Magog Lake to Rock Lake Campground

13 km, 566m elvation gaine, 716m elevation loss

We pack up camp and begin our journey deeper into the backcountry, leaving the busier Magog area behind. The trail leads through alpine basins and into quieter subalpine forest as we make our way toward Rock Lake Campground.

This is a scenic travel day with opportunities for wildlife sightings, river crossings, and a real sense of solitude.

Highlights: Remote travel, river valleys, wildlife opportunities

Rock Lake Campground to Surprise Creek Campground

7km, 550m elevation loss

Today we have a shorter day in terms of kilometers but deadfall from several recent forest fires  makes this day a challenge. We'll enjoy the solitude as we navigate the valley and enjoy views of Simpson ridge, a purple sea of fireweed and perhaps a marmot or two!

At the end of the we'll make camp beside te historic Surprise Creek Cabin, built by Albert Cooper in the 1960s.

Highlights: Simpson Ridge, Surprise Creek, Surprise Creek Cabin.

Surprise Creek to Highway 93 South via Simpson River Trail

11.5km, 200 elevation loss

Our final day follows the Simpson River Trail as we descend through forested valleys and river corridors toward Highway 93 South. This is a gentler day downhill , offering a peaceful and reflective end to the trip.

Ground transportation will be arranged at the trailhead for the return journey.

Highlights: Simpson River Valley, quiet forest travel, scenic exit

• Notes:
• Be prepared for variable weather – mountain conditions can change quickly.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of this wilderness trail.

This trip is designed for those with an intermediate to strong fitness level. Being self-sufficient for 4-5 days will make for a heavy pack. You should have the ability to carry ~30-35 lbs (18 kg) for up to 6 hours over 800 m elevation gain.

If you have the fitness level, you'll need minimal experience for backpacking; let me teach you!