Assiniboine Loop

This looped trail begins and ends at the same place, but do you ever see some sights in between.

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Assiniboine Loop Details

If you have four or more days to really delve into a hike in Banff National Park, the Assiniboine Loop is one to consider. When hiking this trail, you will pass through three contiguous protected areas. Not only that, but have full sight of the sixth highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Assiniboine. As far as camping, on the first night stay at Br 14 McBride's Camp; on nights two and three at Lake Magog Campground (or the BC Parks trail shelter in Mt. Assiniboine Provincial Park, where separate campground fees will apply); and night four at Br 13 Marvel Lake or the Bryant Creek trail shelter. Do note that seasonal restrictions effect recreation on Allenby Pass and Assiniboine Pass during due to buffaloberry season, which is typically mid-July through mid-September. The trailhead for this hike is found at the Mt. Shark trailhead in Spray Valley Provincial Park. More detailed trail descriptions and maps are available at Banff National Park and Parks Canada Visitor Centres. If you have a topographic map, take a look at 82 J/14, 82 J/13, or the Banff and Mount Assiniboine Gem Trek recreation map. Remember when out on the trails that cell phone service is not reliable. Banff National Park's backcountry is mostly accessed by hikers, but bicyclists and horseback riders can venture away from the crowds, too. The main hiking season in this area tends to be May through October, but do keep in mind that because of its altitude, many trails at the higher elevations remain snow-bound through mid-June, and snow is always a possibility, even in mid-summer. That being said, it's important to realize that the weather within the park is unpredictable, and you should be prepared for rain, snow and high winds at any time of year, especially in the backcountry. A backcountry permit and campground reservations are required for anyone planning to overnight in the backcountry; fees do apply, and they're in addition to the park entry fees.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

55 km

Estimated time

4 days

Region

N/A