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Diann Ross
Richfield, UT
petsnstuff@sisna.com

�����ԹϺ��� Adviser: Here’s the lowdown: The main route into Lake Berg from the park visitor center, on Highway 16, is a moderately strenuous, 12-mile trek through the Valley of a Thousand Falls–with great views of 12,970-foot Mount Robson along the way. From the lake, it’s another 1.8 miles or so to Robson Pass, the Continental Divide between
Jasper National Park and the Robson drainage, as well as the Alberta/B.C. border. Expect to share the wilderness with heaps of other hikers in July, regardless of whether you go mid-week or weekends. This is by far the most popular trail in the park and it sees heavy use from backpacking families, school groups, and solo trekkers. In fact, hiker numbers have skyrocketed so
dramatically over the past few years that park officials are currently working to implement a quota system on the Berg Lake Trail.

The upshot for this summer is that you’d be wise to call ahead and reserve a site at one of the seven backcountry campgrounds along the trail; most have in the neighborhood of seven tent sites, with the Berg Lake Campground sporting a generous 20. Because this is still a work in progress, fees have not yet been set. The reservation number is 800-689-9025.

As for temperatures, you’ll probably see daytime highs in the mid-60s or low-70s, but bring plenty of warm clothes, as temps can drop to the 30s at night. Bring a camp stove or two, as campfires are not allowed anywhere along the Berg Lake Trail. If you’ve got extra time on your hands afterwards, consider ditching the crowds on a more low-key overnight hike to Mount
Fitzwilliams, in the east corner of the park. You don’t need a backcountry permit–just self-register at the trailhead–and keep your eyes peeled for caribou, goat, wolverine, and, yes, grizzlies. For maps and route suggestions throughout the park, call the visitor center at 250-566-4325.