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Let the Mountains Move You

Mount Robson  |  Camp  |  Hike  |  Bike  |  Wildlife

MOUNT ROBSON

Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, campsites, and mountaineering challenges, Mount Robson, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of B.C.’s most popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.

rafting with stellar descents valemount bc

About Mount Robson

The towering, snow-capped summit of Mount Robson is a breathtaking spectacle, reaching a staggering height of 3,954 meters (12,972 feet). Mount Robson Provincial Park, the province’s second oldest park, encompasses this majestic peak.

At the heart of this protected area are the headwaters and the first 100 km (60 mi) of the Fraser River–the largest salmon-producing river in the world. It begins as an icy trickle in the park before flowing 1,378 km (856 mi) to the Pacific Ocean.

Berg Lake Trail Repairs

Due to damage from extreme weather in 2021, significant ongoing trail repair work is occurring on the 23 kilometres of Berg Lake Trail. BC Parks plans to reconstruct the trail over a staged, multi-year process.

Please note the following targets for re-opening:
• Trailhead to Kinney Lake – Summer 2023
• Kinney Lake to Whitehorn – Summer 2024
• Whitehorn to Berg Lake – Summer 2025

For more information visit the Mount Robson Provincial Park site.

Activities

• Mount Robson Marathon — During September, outdoor enthusiasts can partake in a remarkable challenge: embarking on a 44-kilometer (27-mile) journey along the renowned Berg Lake Trail. Within the first 21 kilometers (13 miles), hikers ascend 825 meters (2,624 feet) to reach the designated turnaround point.

• Mount Robson Park Bird Blitz — In June birdwatchers visit Mount Robson to see the versatile species chirping and flying around the park.

CAMPING

Valemount is the premier destination along the Yellowhead Highway, between Edmonton A.B. and Vancouver B.C., for front and backcountry camping and RVing. Whether you prefer a tent, trailer, or RV, you’re bound for an unforgettable camping experience in Valemount.

paddle boarding family

When to camp

Prime camping season in Valemount typically spans from May to October, offering optimal conditions for outdoor enthusiasts.

Be sure to reserve a campsite before you arrive.

For more information on campgrounds and RV parks check out Camping & RV.

paddle boarding family

Where to camp

• Mount Robson is one of B.C.’s most popular destinations. Choose from three Mount Robson Provincial Park campgrounds: Robson Meadows, Robson River, and Lucerne. When camping in Mount Robson, register at the British Columbia Visitor Centre before you go.

Camping in Valemount

Know before you go

Always respect campfire bans.

Be prepared for sudden weather changes.

When in doubt, don’t eat it—consuming natural vegetation like mushrooms and berries can be toxic.

HIKING

Step into a world of alpine heights and stunning sights–take in Valemount’s snow-capped peaks, glacial outcrops, alpine meadows, raging rivers, and misty waterfalls. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails!

Where to hike

For detailed information on hiking trails around Valemount and Mount Robson check out our trails website.

• Mount Robson Provincial Park: Hundreds of kilometres of trails to explore for hikers of all fitness levels.

• Cranberry Marsh Loop: Bring your binoculars! Use the wildlife viewing platforms for spectacular bird-watching opportunities.

• The Mica Mine Trail: This challenging 4.5 km trail will take you back in time.

Heli-Hiking

Take your hike to new heights with a heli-hiking excursion.

• Robson Heli Magic is situated in Valemount, amidst the Rocky, Monashee, and Cariboo Mountains. With helicopters to showcase the major peaks and iconic rivers, it offers an epic way to explore the mountains.

• Canadian Adventure Company invites you to hike ridgelines, peaks, and glacial lakes. Experience heli-assisted hiking in the Canadian Rockies at BC’s most private and remote backcountry lodge.

Kayaker in river rapids

Know before you go

Hiking season begins as soon as the snow melts in May. Mid-summer is the ideal time for bird-watching. And late summer is when you can witness the Chinook salmon spawn.

Wear layers in case of sudden weather changes and protect yourself from the sun—bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

Bring insect repellent and a first-aid kit. Be aware that ticks come out in early spring.

Pack it in and pack it out—dispose of all trash in proper receptacles.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Gather the crew and raise some dirt on Valemount’s first-class downhill mountain biking trails. Push your limits and see how high you can fly on the epic jump lines.

Where to ride

We love mountain biking so much, we have our own bike park. Check out the Valemount Bike Park Map. The park’s main staging area is minutes from Valemount–a quick pedal from town via the Hillside Drive access road. Cruise down 5th Avenue and take a hard right after the train tracks. Take the first left and pedal 1 km up the road to the main staging area.

Based on your skill level, you can enjoy a variety of recommended trails in and around Valemount.

Novice:
• Swift Creek at Valemount Bike Park
• Inversion at Valemount Bike Park

Rentals and resources

RENTALS:

Valemount provides three convenient destinations for purchasing, renting, or servicing a bike.

• Bikes & Bites
• District Bicycle Co.
• Valemount Home Hardware

RESOURCES:

• Valemount Mountain Bike Park Map
• Valemount and Area Recreation Development Association (VARDA)
• Mountain Biking BC
• Valemount Bike Park Facebook

Know before you go

Biking season begins in May and runs until the snow starts falling in October. Check the Valemount Bike Park Facebook page for current conditions and updates.

Be sure to wear a helmet and–depending on your route—body armour is recommended.

Pack a kit with tools, tubes, first aid supplies, and water.

Be prepared for sudden weather changes and dress accordingly.

Pack it in and pack it out—dispose of all trash in proper receptacles.

WILDLIFE WATCHING

The Robson Valley is home to an array of mammals, birds, and fish. The diverse ecosystem offers the perfect backdrop for wildlife observation.

Headwaters Outfitting Ltd

Mammals

From mule and whitetail deer that roam campsites, to moose, elk, and caribou foraging in the iconic Mount Robson, encounters with mammals are common.

Be on the lookout for small inhabitants like beavers, squirrels, and marmots, which can be found throughout the region.

Black bears are frequently sighted during hikes, with the occasional glimpse of grizzly bears by lucky visitors. Make sure you are bear-aware and know how to keep yourself safe in the wilderness.

Rufous hummingbirds

Birds and fish

BIRDS
Get your binoculars ready! Lift your eyes to the skies to spot majestic eagles, owls, hawks, and other birds of prey. The diverse habitats of marshes, lakes, and rivers host a variety of waterfowl like grebes, swans, and ducks. Head to Mount Robson Provincial Park, to find yourself amidst the homes of over 150 species of birds. Seek out warblers, woodpeckers and other woodland species while you’re there.

Use the Avibase Bird List to see how many species you can spot on your trip.

Safety and care

While observing wildlife, please be mindful of the habitat and stay safe.

SAFETY
• Review wildlife-watching safety tips.
• Know that dusk and dawn are when animals are most active, so please tread carefully.
• Make noise in bear and cougar country to not spook them.

CARE
Treat the land and its inhabitants with care:
• Do not feed the wildlife
• Ensure a safe distance between yourself and the wildlife
• Dispose of all trash in proper receptacles