Mount Robson

This is a sample itinerary for a 5-day alpine-style ascent of Mount Robson via the Kain Face. The weather and conditions will have a direct effect on our exact itinerary, please note we can not guarantee specific timing and objectives due to the unpredictability of weather and flying into the mountains. Contact us for custom 3-day ascents.

Here is a sample itinerary:

• Pre-trip Meeting: Participants will meet the guide(s) at 4pm in Jasper for a final gear check. We will go over last minute changes (weather, avalanche & flying conditions) and logistics for the following day(s). We will also sign a liability waiver.
• Day 1: Depending on weather conditions, we will drive to Valemount BC and fly early in the morning to the Rearguard Meadows or the Extinguisher Tower. We will then ascent for 5 to 7 hours to reach our first camp
• Days 2: We will continue ascending to the Dome camp or as high as conditions and fitness allow
• Days 3: Weather and conditions permitting, first summit attempt via the Kain Face. This is a big day (14-16hr return) involving nearly 1000m of vertical ascent
• Days 4: Second possible summit attempt. If already successful, we can attempt other nearby peaks like Mount Resplendent or Helmet Peak. We can also fly out early and attempt other peaks in the Jasper area on Day 5
• Days 5: After breaking down camp, we will descend down to the glacier to Extinguisher Camp area and fly out

This is an intermediate to advanced mountaineering program on broken glaciers and mixed snow & ice terrain to 55 degrees. Previous mountaineering experience on snow & ice, carrying big overnight packs and a high fitness level are mandatory. Previous technical climbing and high altitude mountaineering are an asset.

Equipment List

Mount Robson Provincial Park is located in the east, central British Columbia, just west of the British Columbia/Alberta border and Jasper National Park. Approximately 4 hours north of Kamloops, BC on Highway 5; 3 1/2 hours east of Prince George, BC on Highway 16; and 5 hours west of Edmonton, Alberta on Highway 16. The closest communities to this park are Valemount and Jasper.

There are commercial airports in Prince George, Kamloops, Edmonton, and Calgary. Rental vehicles are available at these centers. The park is also served by Greyhound Bus Lines and Via Rail.

Due to the higher elevations, proximity to dominant winds, the weather on Mount Robson is difficult to predict. It is often worse than the weather in the surrounding valleys and can change quickly. It is really hard to predict for more than 24hrs ahead.

Temperatures on the mountain in August can range from 0C to 15C in the day while overnight temperature are much colder often dropping below -10C. It is always an interesting challenge to know exactly what you are going to get, therefore is important to be flexible with timing and not too attached to a particular itinerary.  Be prepared by bringing all required items, this ensures you will be dressed for all variations of temperatures, wind, precipitation.

• Pre-trip planning support
• Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
• 20 years of experience in the area
• Alternative plan based on current conditions
• Rope use & all technical equipment
• Backcountry kitchen & camp equipment
• Dinners & breakfast meals on trip
• Park permits and Liability Insurance
• Emergency response plan
• Group safety equipment

Services NOT included:

• 5% GST tax
• Helicopter access fees in and out
• Technical gear including ice axes, crampons, harnesses, helmets, prussix, carabiner, climbing shoes etc..
• Personal clothing, overnight equipment, mountaineering boots *see equipment list for more details
• Personal lunch & snacks
• Travel to meeting location and accommodation prior to field portion trip
• Gratuities
• Trip interruption, cancellation insurance or medical insurance
• Additional costs incurred if changes made to itinerary due to weather

How experienced do I need to be?

This is an intermediate to advanced mountaineering program on broken glaciers and mixed snow & ice terrain to 55 degrees. Previous mountaineering experience on snow & ice, carrying big overnight packs and a high fitness level are mandatory. Previous technical climbing and high altitude mountaineering are an asset.

Is it safe?

On all our courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guarantees you the highest safety standards in the industry. Mountaineering remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.

Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?

On this program, we offer participants access to all the technical equipment at a discounted rate. This includes; harnesses, helmets, belay device, carabiners, ice axes, crampons and much more. Contact us for specific sizes and availability.

Where else can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?

Here are a few outdoor stores in the area that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.

Mountain Equipment Coop in Edmonton (780) 488-6614 www.mec.ca
Mountain Equipment Coop in Calgary (403) 269-2420 www.mec.ca
Rivers Oceans and Mountains (250) 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Nelson (250) 354-1006 www.vpo.ca
Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Revelstoke (250) 837-5517 www.vpo.ca