Wind River-like Zone in Canada

[DirtyD]

Hey all,

I've been striking out on a few of the permitted routes around BC and Alberta and I wanted to ask if there is some good zones to take a look in the Jasper/Banff/Central CA Rockies that do not require permits. I love taking trips into the Winds but wanted to get out a little further from the greater SLC-area. The goal for the trip would be 3-4 days, probably up to 10-20 miles per day. I've found a few routes of interest but its hard to gauge what is worth the 15 hour drive up there.

Thanks!

 

[Bob]

3 to 4 days for a 15 hr drive is hardly worth it. Have you looked at the sawtooths, bighorn crags or beartooths. Trailed or un trailed?

 

[DirtyD]

The plan was to spend at least a week up there, just not all backpacking. I agree,15 hours would not be worth it for only a long weekend.

 

[esmeadows]

Hey all,

I've been striking out on a few of the permitted routes around BC and Alberta and I wanted to ask if there is some good zones to take a look in the Jasper/Banff/Central CA Rockies that do not require permits. I love taking trips into the Winds but wanted to get out a little further from the greater SLC-area. The goal for the trip would be 3-4 days, probably up to 10-20 miles per day. I've found a few routes of interest but its hard to gauge what is worth the 15 hour drive up there.

Thanks!

One of my all time favorite places to visit is Castleguard Meadows in Banff NP. Photo is of The Watchman taken from the only designated campsite in Castleguard Meadows.

All backcountry camping in Banff and Jasper requires reservations. There are locations within the park where "random camping" is allowed, i.e., you camp where you wish respecting general rules about distance from trails, structures, etc. Castleguard Meadows has a designated campsite but it is very easy to book and very lightly visited. I posted a trip report here: https://tinyurl.com/4ny25njt A previous visit is recorded here (but it is a private group): https://tinyurl.com/ycma7py5

I don't think you should come to Canada's mountain parks for just another hike in the mountains. The smoke has been terrible in recent years and we're anticipating a bad smoke year due to the low snowpack everywhere. However, should the smoke condition allow, Castleguard is a phenomenal trip in part because of the unique character of the Meadows, but especially because the glacier approach is relatively easy and safe in summer without specialized glacier gear. Trail crampons are all you need. It is a challenging hike. You didn't give any indication about difficulty you're comfortable with.
Another execptionally beautiful route in Bnaff is the Mosquito Creek-Pipestone Pass-Dolomite Pass circuit with a side trip to Devon Lakes. All in a random camping zone if you're willing to accept a moderate scramble over Mosquito Pass, a more challenging scramble over Quartize Col, or a long day from the trailhead. Trip reports here: https://tinyurl.com/s2jbhbyb

Scott Meadows

I've visited the Pipestone Pass region of Banff National Park three times this year. The first was a solo attempt to reach Upper Martin Falls via Quartzite Col. I didn't make it. My friend Brett...

tinyurl.com

Second photo is looking north down the Siffleur River from Quartzite Col.

Both of these options can be booked at the last minute. You may wish to remain flexible to watch for smoke conditions if we have a bad year.

Contact me at esmeadows@gmail.com if you want more info. You should also join the FB group BCR - Backpacking in the Canadian Rockies if you're not there already.

Scott

 

[Kullaberg63]

In the past I have really enjoyed the rugged peaks of Strathcona Provincial Park. They have free un-permitted 'wilderness' camping for those going off the beaten path - and there are plenty of opportunities for that. And no Grizzlies!

 

[NorthwestWanderer]

Hey all,

I've been striking out on a few of the permitted routes around BC and Alberta and I wanted to ask if there is some good zones to take a look in the Jasper/Banff/Central CA Rockies that do not require permits. I love taking trips into the Winds but wanted to get out a little further from the greater SLC-area. The goal for the trip would be 3-4 days, probably up to 10-20 miles per day. I've found a few routes of interest but its hard to gauge what is worth the 15 hour drive up there.

Thanks!

Between Banff and Jasper; the White Goat Wilderness Area and the Job Cline PLUZ don't require permits just a canada parks parking pass which is like $20. There are great routes up in there to Michelle Lakes, Cataract Pass, Cloud Buster ect...

I'm doing a big route in the Job Cline this summer with a buddy of mine and you only need a parking pass. Also the victoria cross ranges in Northern Jasper is all off trail / old trail and you will be able to pull permits for them but you got to go to a ranger station, I know thats a PIA which is why I avoid NPs as it can be a time sink.

Message me, I went up to canada quite a bit to backpack last year, there are plenty of no permit areas that you can go for 3-5 days