PERFECT PURCELLS
4 Day Backpacking Adventure to a Golden Larch Masterpiece!
Some places don’t need a name to be unforgettable.
Tucked deep in the Purcell Mountains lies a quiet, rarely travelled alpine basin that comes alive for a brief and magical window each September. This is when the larches turn gold, the air sharpens, and the mountains glow in a way that feels almost unreal.
Perfect Purcells is a four-day, three-night backpacking journey designed for those who want to slow down, wander through wild spaces, and experience autumn in the high alpine at its very best.
Trip Highlights:
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- Golden larch forests at peak autumn colour
- Quiet alpine terrain far from crowds
- Remote campsites under big mountain skies
- High passes, open meadows, and reflective tarns
Dates and Bookings
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July 9- 13 Co - Ed trip :
CAD $815 + applicable taxes
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Sept 3 - 7 Wxmns only :
CAD $815 + applicable taxes
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We value small groups - limited to 6 adventurers
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Itinerary and Gear
Planned Itinerary
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Day 1:
Pre-trip meeting only: TBD??
We will meet at 6 pm in ???, 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.
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Day 2:
Into the Golden Valley
8- 12 km, 600m gain
We begin at a remote trailhead and steadily make our way into the heart of the Purcells. The trail climbs gently through forest before opening into larch-filled meadows glowing in shades of gold and amber.
As we approach our first backcountry camp, views widen and the sense of remoteness sets in. Evening is spent settling into camp, preparing a warm dinner, and watching the last light wash over the surrounding peaks.
Hiking: Moderate
Overnight: Backcountry alpine campsite -
Day 3:
Alpine Passes & High Meadows
8-12 km, 600m gain
Today is a classic Purcells day—big scenery, open terrain, and endless photo opportunities. We travel through high alpine meadows and cross a scenic pass with sweeping views of rugged peaks and quiet valleys below.
We move at a relaxed pace, allowing time to explore, snack in the sun, and soak in the stillness. Our second camp sits in a stunning alpine setting, surrounded by larches and mountain silhouettes.
Hiking: Moderate to Challenging
Overnight: High alpine backcountry camp -
Day 4:
Wandering the Larch Wonderland
With camp established, today is all about exploration and immersion. We head out on a lighter day hike—wandering ridgelines, visiting hidden tarns, or simply meandering through golden larch forests.
This is a day for slowing down: long lunches, quiet moments, journaling, photography, and letting the mountains set the pace. We return to camp for a final evening in the alpine, often accompanied by crisp air and star-filled skies.
Hiking: Light to Moderate
Overnight: Backcountry camp
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Day 5:
Heading Home
We pack up and begin our journey out, retracing our steps through glowing larch forests and wide open valleys. The descent offers one last chance to absorb the colours, textures, and silence that make this place so special.
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Packing Tips:
- Essentials: Tent, sleeping bag, rain gear, sturdy boots, water filter, first aid kit, and bear spray.
- Food: Plan for 5 days of lightweight, non-perishable meals. Pack extra snacks for energy boosts along the way.
- Water: Water sources are abundant, but make sure to treat or filter all water.
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Safety:
- 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 fitness level. Being self sufficient for 45days will create a heavy pack. You should have the ability to carry ~40 lbs (18 kg) for up to 6 hours over 800 m elevation gain.
If you have the fitness level, minimal experience is needed for backpacking; let me teach you!
Gear, Food and Lodging
Included:
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Backcountry skills learning
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Tents for camping - we prefer people from the same "bubble" share tents as some campgrounds have limited tent platforms. Strangers will not be paired together unless requested to help decrease pack weight
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Amazingly delicious food from the evening on day 1 to lunch on the last day
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The expertise, navigation and learning from an ACMG Guide.
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All group gear - stoves, pots, food storage materials, water treatment, sunblock, bug spray
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All safety equipment - bear spray, first aid kit, emergency communication device, and tarp
Participants must provide:
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Accommodations the night before getting on the trail
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Transportation to the trailhead
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Breakfast, supper on the last day
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Personal Gear (Can be arranged for an additional fee)
Personal Gear List