5-Day Guided Hiking Itinerary for Assiniboine Ambler

• Day 1:

  Pre-trip meeting only: Canmore, AB, 

  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.

• Day 2:

  Mount Shark Trailhead to Bryant Creek Campground

  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
  

• Day 3:

  Bryant Creek to Magog Lake via Wonder Pass

  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

• Day 4:

  Porcupine Ridge Traverse (Day Hike)

  10 - 12 km, 600-800m gain

  Today, we explore the stunning Porcupine Ridge area, one of the most beautiful high-alpine landscapes in the park. This route travels through alpine meadows, rocky ridgelines, and open slopes with uninterrupted views of Mount Assiniboine, Lake Magog, and nearby glaciers.

  We’ll hike at a relaxed, exploratory pace with plenty of time for photography, breaks, and a long alpine lunch. The afternoon is free to relax by the lake, explore nearby viewpoints, or simply enjoy camp.

  Highlights: Porcupine Ridge, glacier views, alpine meadows
  

• Day 5:

  Magog Lake to Surprise Creek Campground

  10-14 km, Rolling terrain with moderate elevation gains and losses

  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 Surprise Creek 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
  

• Day 6:

  Surprise Creek to Highway 93 South via Simpson River Trail

  22km, 600-800m 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 longer but generally downhill day, 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.

Included:

• Backcountry skills learning
• Amazingly delicious food from the evening on day 1 to lunch on the last day
• The expertise, navigation and learning from an ACMG Guide.
• All group gear - stoves, pots, backcountry food, food storage materials, water treatment supplies.
• All safety equipment - bear spray, first aid kit, emergency communication device, and tarp

Participants must provide:

• Accommodations the night before getting on the trail
• Transportation to the trailhead and shuttle pickup will be provided.
• Breakfast, supper on the last day
• Personal Gear (Can be arranged for an additional fee)
  Personal Gear List