Photography Mecca

With my love for photography this park was a dream. You have the big and beautiful Mount Assiniboine as the centre (and attraction) of the park, but there is so much more to discover. Lakes looking like a mirror in the morning, peaks with 360 views and soft light on the mountains.

To get the most out of it I spent six days in the park. Two of those days were assigned to hiking in and out, because this place is not easy to reach. If you’re willing to pay, you can take a helicopter flight in, which is 175CAD for an 8- minute flight. If you don’t have or want to pay that money, you walk the 26km to the Lake Magog campground in the park.

I did the latter.

Day 1: The Hike In

There are different tracks to reach Assiniboine Lodge and the Lake Magog campground. See below for information on the different routes. We chose for the track via Wonder Pass, as it is the most scenic one, and the shortest – still 26km though!

It was our first longer hike in Canada and we were carrying big backpacks, so we decided to split the hike in two and camped our first night near Marvel Lake. This is a popular option, especially for people hiking in.

We left the Mount Shark Trailhead after lunch and hiked to the Marvel Lake campground (also called BR13 on maps). It took us 3.5 hours and I’ll be honest: it was boring. You walk 13km on an easy and maintained track through the woods. There is nothing technical about it and you get no views. There are trees, trees and trees. I felt like I was hiking the same track over and over.

Because it was still bear season we made a lot of noise while hiking – a very funny sight! At the campground there were also wires to hang your food high in the trees – to protect it from bears. There were also some tables, a creek for water and a drop toilet.

Day 2: Marvel Lake campground to Mount Assiniboine

After a good night sleep and no bear encounters we left at 9.30am. 30 minutes later you arrive at Marvel Lake, and believe me when I say it really looks marvellous with its clear blue colour.

Then you follow a track with a tremendous view on the lake. It is so blue, and after all that time in the bush a real treat for the eyes.

While you’re enjoying the scenery you can start preparing yourself mentally for a big climb. To reach Wonder Pass (and eventually Mount Assiniboine) you have to zigzag up and leave the blue lake behind. It took us around 1.5hours to get to Wonder Pass. One hour of that time is steep up, and the last 30 minutes are less steep, but still going up.

You can imagine how happy (and sweaty) I was when arriving at Wonder Pass. It was time to sit down, have some lunch and just relax. The last part to Mount Assiniboine and the Lake Magog campground is easy. You just hike down, and 45 minutes later you reach the lodge. The campground is another 2km from the lodge.

We were perfect on time to enjoy a sunset at Lake Magog and Mount Assiniboine.

Day 3 – 5: Exploring Mount Assiniboine Park

Once we set up our tent it was time to explore the area, and there is SO MUCH to see!

Magog Lake

This is the main lake in the park, close to the campground and the lodge. Mount Assiniboine stands beautifully at the end of the lake. Have a walk around the lake, take a (cold) dip and enjoy a sunrise or sunset with views on Mount Assiniboine.

When we arrived at Mount Assiniboine we were treated on a beautiful sunset.

Sunburst Lake

Sunburst Lake is only a 10minutes walk from the Lake Magog campground. The trail is very clear and easy to follow and before you know it you arrive at the small and beautiful lake.

It’s perfect for sunrise shots, as it’s not that far from the campground, and it offers great sunrise views.

Cerulean Lake

When you walk past Sunburst Lake and you keep going, you’ll end up at Cerulean Lake. It’s bigger than Sunburst, and will take you circa 30minutes from the campground. Its clear waters and reflection of Sunburst Peak are worth the visit!

The Nublet / Nub Peak

If you’ve seen a picture of Mount Assiniboine, it’s probably taken from this location. The Nublet and Nub Peak give you the best views on Mount Assiniboine and its surrounding lakes.

Those who want to hike more can continue on to Nub Peak, giving you an even better view. Take some wind jacket with you, as it can get very windy up there.

Waterfall and surroundings

Although there are lots of lakes and peaks around to explore, the area around the campground and lodge are worthwhile too. There’s a little river flowing with a few small waterfalls. On a hot day it is great to jump in the water and cool down. Don’t freak out though, there are a lot of fishes in it who like to tickle your feet.

Day 6: Hike Out

We started early in the morning, because the days were hot and we wanted to hike out in one go. At 6.45 we hiked in the dark and enjoyed a mild sunrise at Wonder Pass. The hike to Wonder Pass is the only time you really have to walk up on the way out.

Hiking in the early morning is pretty amazing, as all the wildlife is out. We saw plenty of elk, chipmunks and cheeky birds. Those big birds were just sitting in the middle of the track, not moving and caring we were there. It was such a special moment.

At 11.30am we arrived at Marvel Lake, perfect for a lunch break and some more photo time. There were a lot of fires that days, so the view is a bit hazy.

Then it was time for the boring last part back to the car park. I ended up listening to a podcast, because I couldn’t handle the boring road. Unfortunately we couldn’t run it, because of our big bag packs. At 3pm we arrived at the car and we were SO happy.

We didn’t see any bears, but did carry our bear spray with us all the time! You never know when you’ll bump into one.

This truly was such a wonderful week of hiking in a wonderful place. Don’t let the distance scare you, it’s definitely worth a visit and you can take it easy!

Accommodation

There’s something for everyone in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, from camping to staying in a huts or a fancy lodge. We went for a mix of those!

Campground

If you’re planning to cut your walk in two and spend the night at Marvel Lake campground, you’ll need to book this. You can do this via the online reservation system of Parks Canada. The campground is part of the backcountry camping in the Banff, Kootenay and Yoho Backcountry. 

The campground in Mount Assiniboine Provincial park is called the Lake Magog campground, and on the right hand side of the lake. It has 40 campsites and used to work on first come first serve base (when we were there), but since april 2018 an online reservation is required during peak season (June 26 – September 30). There is NO overflow camping anymore. Find more info here.

There’s also a supply of non-potable drinking water and toilets. Use the bear lockers on site, as bears might be closer than you think!

Do bear in mind: the campground is 2km from the lodge – so if you want to go for tea time, you’ll have to do a little walk.

Naiset Huts

There are five Naiset Huts, around 500meters from the lodge. They’re small and cute, and there’s a kitchen hut with everything you need – seriously everything. Such a luxury when staying the mountains. The huts cost $25 per night and bookings are recommended. You can just drop in, but always bring your tent. Nico and I were quite lucky, we stayed three nights at the campground and the last night at one of the huts.

http://assiniboinelodge.com/naiset-and-hind-huts

Assiniboine Lodge

The Assiniboine Lodge is the most luxurious option in the park. You get a comfortable room and lots of food and drinks. Prices are also quite a bit higher, ranging from CAD290 to CAD495 (prices are cheaper in winter). You then either sleep in the main lodge or in one of their nice little huts.

Canmore

The Mount Shark Trailhead is about 40km away from Canmore, so you might want to book a bed the day before beginning your hike. It’s a cute small town, in between the mountains. Have a look at lots of accommodation options.

How to get to Mount Assiniboine?

The closest airport is Calgary International Airport. From there you have different options, including options to hike in to Assiniboine and taking the helicopter.

On Foot

There are multiple tracks to reach Mount Assiniboine. I’ll list the 3 most popular ones.

Mount Shark Trailhead to Mount Assiniboine via Wonder Pass – 26km: The trail starts at the Mount Shark Trailhead, around 40km south of Canmore. The first part of the trail is easy, and it branches off at Bryant Creek (around 14km in). Then you walk along Marvel Lake and hike up to Wonder Pass. From the top of Wonder Pass you just follow the trail down to the Assiniboine Lodge. This hike is seen as the most scenic one, as it passes Marvel Lake. It’s also the shortest hike, but not the easiest, as the hike to Wonder Pass is quite steep.

Mount Shark Trailhead to Mount Assiniboine via Assiniboine Pass – 27.5km: This trail also starts at the Mount Shark Trailhead, and follows the same route to the Bryant Creek Warden Hut. Then you follow the Assiniboine Pass signs. After you pass the McBride’s campsite, continue straight until you reach the Assiniboine Pass. Then you’ll climb steeply before gradually descending the final 3km toward the Lodge. This trail is closed to public during August and September due to bear encounters, although you can still hike via the Assiniboine Pass using the horse trail.

Sunshine Village to Mount Assiniboine – 30km: Start at Sunshine Village Ski and Snow Resort. There is also a shuttle that can drop you off there for 15$ from Banff. Although this trail is the longest, it’s easier than the other options, and also offers great views of Mount Assiniboine.

By Helicopter

This is a great option if you don’t have a lot of time and only want to visit Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. You can also fly in and hike out – or the other way around.

Flights are arranged via the Assiniboine Lodge. They only fly on Friday, Sunday and Wednesday. The flights start at CAD175 one way. Find more information on their website.

What to take to Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park?

The less you carry, the better. You have quite a lot of kilometres to hike, so try to not take too much stuff with you.

Here are the essentials:

Tent: opt for a light one, as it’s nicer to carry.
Sleeping bag
Camping stove (+lighter)
Bear spray
First aid kit
Food (+extra food)
Water purification pills
Map
Camera
Cash: for a tea (or outside of peak season to pay the camping)

If you’re curious what I bring along on my hiking expeditions, have a look at my gear.

Ready to visit Canada?

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Read more about my Canadian adventures:

Winter Wonderland at Emerald Lake Lodge

A Trip Through Time at Num-Ti-Jah Lodge

Maligne Lake Canoe Trip

Hiking Garibaldi Lake

My First Aurora Borealis

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links – which supports this site without costing you anything extra. Thanks!

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I couldn’t believe me eyes when I first arrived at this place. Emerald Lake is prone to reflections, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, and to finish the picture: there is a lodge right at the water.

Emerald Lake Lodge

Emerald Lake Lodge is the only accommodation at the lake, and it’s beautiful. The main building goes way back to 1902, when the Canadian Pacific Railway built it. More than 100 years later, the wooden and fine structure kept its historic charm.

We checked in for two days at the lodge, and I was ready for two days of nature and just spoiling myself. It was November, and the winter had just arrived in Canada with a big snow dump and temperatures to -18 degrees Celsius. Emerald Lake is beautiful in every season, but the snow made it extra special.

The lodge exists out of multiple chalet style cabins, and we got one with lake view. Every room has a balcony and a fireplace in the room, adding to that cosy chalet feeling.

How To Relax at The Lodge?

Besides the stunning Emerald Lake right in front of you, the lodge offers a lot of ways to relax (me like!). On the very top of my list is the HOT TUB.

Hot Tubbing

Those who know me, know I have a soft spot for hot tubs. And this one was a special one. The tub is outside (remember temperatures are -18C), and has a view on the mountains. Well, that is if it isn’t cloudy. When I jumped in the tub the clouds were covering the mountains. No view for me, but I still enjoyed it. I even got some company from a squirrel playing in the trees.

Cosy time at the fireplace!

When you’re done soaking you can enjoy the fire in your room, because YES, every room has its own fireplace! Visiting Emerald Lake Lodge in winter gives you that extra joy of seeing the cold and snow outside while you’re warm inside at the fire. The staff even comes to your room to prepare the fire for you (not that I can’t make my own fire… ). And who doesn’t love a good old fire? Drink some wine, and the experience is complete!

If you can handle the cold, Emerald Lake Lodge also has an outdoor fire pit. Can you see where I’m going? S’mooores! I had never done s’mores, and wanted to experience this real Canadian tradition so badly. The staff lit the fire, and I finally tried some s’mores. For those who are also new to this popular Canadian sweet: s’mores are white marshmallows melted and squashed between biscuits. You can even add some chocolate if you want.

Some fun for the belly!

Another way to relax is by treating your taste buds. The lodge has great dining, with a variety of tastes. From local meat like bison and caribou, to fish and fresh vegetables, there is something for everyone. And let’s not forget: all of with a view on the lake and mountains.

For the internet addicts – there is no wifi in the rooms! It’s perfect to tune off the online world, and enjoy your company. And if you really are getting withdrawal symptoms, there is free wifi in the main lodge.

Activities In The Area

This area is one big playground, with Emerald Lake Lodge as a great and comfortable base. Here are a few things to do when spending time at the lodge.

1. Explore Emerald Lake

Enjoy Emerald Lake to the fullest! This turquoise lake is a treasure, and you should make the most of it. You can take a walk around the lake, which is the perfect way to take it all in. It will take you 5.2km, or about two hours. There is also a little waterfall that you can visit. The track starts at the car park.

Deep in winter, it is also a great place for snowshoeing on and around the lake and cross-country skiing. Just be aware of avalanches. At the lake you find information which area to avoid. We visited the lodge a bit too early to see the lake frozen, but might come back later in winter to see how it looks with loads of snow. In summer Emerald Lake is the place to be for canoeing.

2. Photography

Emerald Lake is the spot to get your camera out and get shooting. The lake has stunning reflections, from many angles! The advantage of going in early winter is that you get snow AND reflections, which is in my opinion the best!

3. Natural Bridge

The Natural Bridge is a beautiful force of nature. It’s a natural rock formation, looking a bit like a bridge – although I didn’t really see it. It’s a very impressive piece of work though, and the rushing water makes you want to hold on to the edge extra firm.

We visited the Natural Bridge before checking into Emerald Lake Lodge, and visited it again two days later. The scenery had changed totally!! Suddenly the waterfall was frozen and there was ice everywhere. Winter had arrived!

4. Field

Field is a cute, little town at only a 15-minute drive of Emerald Lake. There isn’t much, but the houses are just adorable. There is one restaurant, Truffle Pigs Bistro, and it’s luckily a good one. I ordered a flatbread, which I rarely do (because it’s just a piece of bread..), but this time I gave it a try. Man, was I surprised. The cook managed to create an incredible tasty flatbread, with a mix of flavours. It really was way above expectations! Maybe I should order flatbread more often..

5. Takakkaw Waterfall

The Takakkaw waterfall is an impressive and high waterfall. It has a height of about 380meters. The road is to get there is open from June to mid-October and closed the rest of the year due to avalanches. You can visit in winter, but avalanche training is required.

How to get to Emerald Lake?

You find Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, in British Columbia. It is 30 minutes west of Lake Louise and 2,5 hours from the Calgary International Airport.

You then take the Trans-Canada Highway towards Field and Golden. The turn off to Emerald Lake is located 1km west of Field. Follow the road until you reach the lake. Emerald Lake Lodge is at the lake. On the way there you will also pass the Natural Bridge on your left, makes a perfect stop! If you’re visiting Emerald Lake Lodge in winter, be extra careful for the roads. They might be a bit icy and slippery.

I was hosted on this trip, but I really enjoyed the entire experience. From the rooms, to the views, to the staff, it was all great. It’s a bit a more luxurious stay, but I would definitely come back here for an anniversary or special occasion. It’s the perfect setting for a weekend away and to get your romance and nature on

Tempted? You can book a room via the Emerald Lake Lodge site.

And one more reflection picture, ’cause I just can’t help it!

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What’s your favourite winter destination? Or are you more a summer person? Let me know!

Read more about my Canadian adventures:

Maligne Lake Canoe Trip

Hiking Garibaldi Lake

My First Aurora Borealis

Welcome To Canada

Disclosure: This blog was sponsored by Emerald Lake Lodge. All opinions, are as always, my own. Some links might contain affiliate links. That means that by no extra cost of your own, you will be supporting this blog by buying something through these links. Thank you!

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Garibaldi Lake is nestled in Garibaldi Provincial Park and is a real treasure. If you like beautiful lakes, glaciers, impressive peaks and unforgettable views, then this place is for you. It was my first Canadian overnight hike after moving here, and I couldn’t have wished for a better one.

The plan: to hike to the campground at Garibaldi Lake, stay two nights and explore the area. The campground is a great base for hiking in the park. If you have the chance, try to stay more than one night, as there is always so much to discover in the Canadian mountains.

Zigzag up, up, up!

The hike to the lake is on a very neat trail. If you’re a person who slowly gets into a hike, be prepared. The track starts climbing immediately from the car park, giving you no chance to stroll into it. The first six to seven kilometres are just up. You’ll sweat, but it isn’t too bad, as the track isn’t technical at all.

You’re zigzagging your way up until you’re almost above the treeline. There isn’t much to see, besides LOTS of trees and now and then a cute chipmunk. Once you’re up high, the scenery gets better. At one moment you pass a clear blue lake on your right, which is perfect for a lunch break.

Not much later you start walking down to Garibaldi Lake. Believe me, you’ll get excited when you see those first blue colours peeping through the tree leaves.

The lake is turquoise blue, because of the glacier melt into the lake.

The campground is just at the lake, but still in between trees. I would’ve loved to have views on the lake, but in the end it was quite nice to have your little, private area. The tent units are spread out, which makes camping a more intimate experience.

Our first evening we just enjoyed a sunset at Garibaldi Lake, as we started hiking quite late.

Sunrise Hike to Panorama Ridge

As you know by now, Nico and I like to do sunrise hikes, to get the best light. ‘Like’ might be the wrong word, because getting out of your warm sleeping bag at 3.30am does NOT feel nice.

It’s hard to get out of bed, but once you’re walking you get into a zone and quickly make progress. We wanted to hike to Panorama Ridge, which is an impressive ridge at 2133m high, and can be seen from the lake. The hike there is about 2,5 hours, so we started walking at 4am.

Hiking in the dark in Canada is a totally new experience for us.

Coming from New Zealand, where the ‘most dangerous’ animal is a possum, Canada is something else. There are bears, cougars (this is a mountain lion!), and moose… With my wild imagination I saw animals in every dark shape. We made so much noise while hiking that morning. And we did well, as we didn’t encounter any wild animal.

At 6am we arrived at our sunrise spot. Just before the top of Panorama Ridge there is this cool view on Black Tusk and some lakes. We knew the sun was going to hit the mountain face and thought that would make for some nice pictures.

I loved how the light touched Black Tusk, and not much later us. It was so cold that morning, so when the sun finally hit us we were so happy.

Black Tusk sticks out from all the other mountains around you,

because of its unique look.

After shooting, we made our way up to the ridge and were stunned. We thought our morning couldn’t get any better, but the peak provided breathtaking 360 views of Mt. Price, Black Tusk, Mt. Garibaldi and Garibaldi Lake. The water was incredible blue, just out of this world.

After the must-do Instagram shots we had some breakfast and took in the scenery. On our way back to the campground I was impressed by how beautiful the track actually was. I saw lots of wildflowers, little creeks, lakes, and mountains. The advantage of shooting at sunrise is that you’re all by yourself. On our way back down we passed loads of people hiking up. I was glad that we were able to take in the scenery by ourselves.

That evening we stayed again for sunset at Garibaldi Lake, as there were some cool clouds popping up (which we definitely want, to get some nice colours in the sky).

Some information to get you on your way!

How To Get There?

The hike starts at the Rubble Creek parking lot, roughly 37 km north of Squamish and 19 km south of Whistler (British Columbia). It’s also quite close to Vancouver, only a 70km drive.

So about 37km after Whistler, you turn off Hwy 99 just after you cross the Rubble Creek Bridge, onto a paved road that leads 2.5 km to the Garibaldi Lake parking lot.

It is ok to leave your car for a few days. We spent two nights in the park, and our car was just fine when we got back. Don’t leave any valuables visible and also make sure you don’t leave any food in the car, because it will attract mice!

Hiking details

LAKE GARIBALDI

9km one way // Elevation gain: 920m // 4-5 return

The trail starts at the wooden steps along the top section of the Rubble Creek parking lot. The first 6km of the trail is uphill, through a dense forest. After the 6km mark, you reach a junction with a map of the surrounding area. Going right takes you directly to Garibaldi Lake. You’ve done most of the climbing, and the rest of the way is fairly flat. The last meters you head down to the lake and arrive at a wooden bridge. Cross the bridge and find a site to put of your tent or just enjoy your lunch with a spectacular view!

PANORAMA RIDGE

7km one way from Garibaldi Lake campground // Elevation gain: 630m // 5h return

You can either start hiking from the campground or straight from the carpark. When you leave from the campground, you retrace your steps as how you came, but instead of going left you go straight and follow the marker. The marker at the trail will indicate where you should go right. Follow the track and enjoy beautiful alpine meadows until you reach another fork.

At this fork the trails to Black Tusk and Helm Lake branch off to the left, and the Panorama Ridge trail goes right. From that point it will get a little tougher, as the track goes steep up. Depending on the season you also may have to cross some snowfields on the way up. The last 30 minutes you’re hiking and climbing on rocks. There are a few tracks, but you can also just take your own route and go up. Enjoy the view!

BLACK TUSK 

7km one way from Garibaldi Lake campground // Elevation gain: 850m // 4-5h return

You can either start hiking from the campground or straight from the carpark. If you start from the campground you follow the same trail that goes to Panorama Ridge, until you reach a fork, where you follow the Black Tusk trail to the left.

The trail will become more rocky and emerge onto a small ridge with a view of Black Tusk ahead of you. There isn’t a maintained trail from this point on, however there is still a path visible from the many hikers who trek through here. In the next section there is a scramble over loose shale towards the base of Black Tusk.

What is provided at Garibaldi Lake campground?

• Tent unit (if booked)
• Four cooking shelters (with tables and a grey water disposal sink)
• Pit toilets
• You can get water from the lake, but don’t forget to filter it
• Beautiful scenery

What to bring?

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Camping permit: reservations are only necessary during peak season (June 29 – October 17). Book via http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/garibaldi/
• Food and good food storage that keeps mice out (we saw mice crawling over plastic bags in the cooking shelter). We used a strong dry-bag.
• Warm clothes and rain jacket (the weather can change quickly, so be prepared)
• Camera: it’s beautiful, you’ll want to take a lot of pictures
• Bear spray (yes, there are also bears here – let’s not forget we’re in Canada)
• Water filter or water purification tablets 

Have you been to Garibaldi Provincial Park? Are there any spots I missed, which I should check out? Let me know in the comments.

The post Hiking Garibaldi Lake: All You Need To Know appeared first on The World is a Circus.

My first aurora! I still can’t believe it. It couldn’t be more random. We were just on our way to Canmore, trying to kill some kilometres. It was 10.30pm when Nico suddenly shouted: “Oooh shit”. I don’t remember his exact words, but I thought we were caught by the bushfires. Luckily I got a treat when I opened my eyes.

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS!

Just on our left. Dancing like a wave of the sea.

We immediately looked for a lake nearby, and found one in Sorrento (B.C.). Tripods out (how else are you going to capture the lights?), cameras out and there we went.

The beauty of it touched me. Green strokes of light dancing in the sky, it is something special. On top of that we got some beautiful reflections in the lake. It makes you remember again how freaking incredible this world is.

What is an aurora actually?

The Aurora Borealis is also called the northern lights, or in the southern hemisphere it is Aurora Australis and southern lights. You’ll see green, pink and blue colours across the night sky, often dancing.

The name comes from astronomer Galileo Galilei, who named it aurora borealis in 1619. He was inspired by the name of the Roman goddess of the dawn: Aurora, and the Greek name for wind of the north: Boreas.

What causes these beautiful lights to appear?

Nature puts on a show with its northern and southern lights, but how does it happen? What causes it? It isn’t just to please us; there is a logical explanation.

Here I go:

It’s all about the sun. Storms on the sun send solar particles across space.

The northern lights are actually collisions between those electrically charged particles from the sun, entering the earth’s atmosphere. When those particles from the sun strike atoms and molecules in our atmosphere, they light up, treating us on a spectacle.

Here’s a little video of our wonderful night:

When and where is the best time to spot the northern lights?

Definitely not in summer, so Nico and I were very lucky. Winter is usually the best period, as there is less light pollution and the air is clear and crisp.

The best places to see the northern lights are northern Canada (yes!) and Alaska. Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland also have good vantage points.

Be prepared, so you can get your camera out! The Space Weather Prediction Centre and NASA are good resources. It’s important to check the KP Index, indicating how intense the storm is. The index goes from 0 to 9, and you definitely want a KP Index of 5 or higher. The higher, the stronger the lights will be.

http://www.swpc.noaa.gov/

https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/sunearth/aurora-news-stories/index.html

http://www.aurora-service.eu/aurora-forecast/

There are also lots of Aurora Facebook groups, sharing aurora predictions and sightings.

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I’m ready to see more of those dancing lights!

Have you ever seen an aurora? Where was it?

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