Ultimate Guide to Mount Assiniboine: How to Get There, Where to Stay & What to Do

Towering at 3,618 meters (11,870 feet), Mount Assiniboine is the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies. Known as the “Matterhorn of the Rockies” for its distinctive pyramid shape, this backcountry paradise is perfect for adventurers seeking breathtaking alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and epic hiking trails. Permits to say at Mount Assiniboine can be hard to come by, so when I was invited to tag along I jumped at the opportunity! Whether you’re flying in by helicopter or hiking the rugged trails, this guide covers everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip.

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🚁 Getting to Mount Assiniboine

Helicopter to Mount Assiniboine

For those looking to skip the long hike, helicopters operate from Canmore and Mount Shark (near Kananaskis). The flight takes 10-15 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the Rockies.

The details:

• ⭐ Mount Shark → Assiniboine:
  • $226/person one way + 5% tax
• ⭐ Canmore → Assiniboine: 
  • $257/person one way + 5% tax
• ⭐ Helicopters are flown Wednesday, Friday and Sunday in the summer ‼️ Mondays instead of Sundays on long weekends
• ⭐ Baggage: allowed 40lb of gear onto the flight

🚨They don’t always weigh the bags, but if they do – they charge $10 per pound over 40lb! You can also have your gear flown in while you hike and this is charged $5 per pound (max 40lb).

This is the quickest and easiest way to reach Assiniboine Lodge, the Naiset Huts, and the backcountry campgrounds. Make sure you book in advanced! If they have availability on return flights, you may be able to book at the lodge – but don’t count on it being available. I’ve seen stories of campers experiencing unexpected snow and had to hike out in improper gear because the helicopters were full.

We chose to fly in and hike out. I definitely recommend flying at least one way – the views are out of this world and the hike can be brutal.

🌲 Hiking to Mount Assiniboine

For the adventurous and experienced hikers, there are multiple trails leading into Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park:

• Sunshine Village to Assiniboine (26 km / 16 miles): The most popular route, passing through Citadel Pass with incredible views.
• Mount Shark Trailhead (27 km / 17 miles): A more direct option with stunning scenery.
• Bryant Creek Route (29 km / 18 miles): A slightly longer but gentler trail.

Most hikers take two days to reach Assiniboine and often camp at Porcupine or Magog Lake along the way.

⛺ Where to Stay: Camping & Lodge Accommodations

Depending on how you arrive to Mount Assiniboine, you may consider splitting up the trek on your hike in. The highlights of the park are centered around Lake Magog and while there are other campgrounds available- it is highly recommended you stay at one of the listed accommodations. The lodge and hut accommodations are based on a lottery system that typically opens and closes the fall prior.

Assiniboine Lodge

The historic Assiniboine Lodge is a dream stay for those looking for rustic luxury in the backcountry. Enjoy cozy cabins, gourmet meals, and guided hikes in one of Canada’s most breathtaking locations. You’ll want to plan in advance for the lottery system, but you could attempt to call the lodge for more information on cancellations.

Naiset Huts

For a budget-friendly alternative, the Naiset Huts offer basic, heated shelters near the lodge. Guests must bring their own sleeping gear and cooking equipment.

Camping at Lake Magog

Backpackers can stay at Lake Magog Campground, offering some of the most scenic tent spots in the Rockies. There are outhouses, food storage lockers, and a water source, but no fires are allowed. Reservations are required through BC Parks.

⛰️ Best Day Hikes Near Mount Assiniboine

Once you’ve arrived, there are plenty of jaw-dropping day hikes to explore:

• The Nublet / Nub Peak (5-7 km round trip): One of the most iconic viewpoints in the area, overlooking Lake Magog and Mount Assiniboine. This is what makes the trek worthwhile!
• Sunburst & Cerulean Lakes (6 km round trip): A scenic route passing two stunning alpine lakes. You may pass this on your way to the Nub!
• Wonder Pass (6-7 km round trip): A moderate hike filled with larches in the fall.

Grizzly Bear Awareness & Safety

Mount Assiniboine is prime grizzly bear country, so bear safety is crucial. We were lucky enough to dodge them during our trip, but we did almost have a close encounter (we paused on the trail and the people in front of us enjoyed the encounter instead).

Luckily, when we stayed at Lake Magog, they had frequent bear lockers and a designated cooking area away from our tents. This means you shouldn’t need a bear canister or bag, unless your planning a night on the trails somewhere.

🚨 Bear Safety Tips: 

• Always carry bear spray and know how to use it.
• Hike in groups and make noise to avoid surprising a bear.
• Store food in bear-proof lockers.
• Respect wildlife and never approach or feed bears.
• Never run from a bear.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Mount Assiniboine is a bucket-list adventure for hikers and nature lovers. Whether you fly in for a luxurious stay at Assiniboine Lodge or tackle the challenging trek, it is well worth the journey. With jaw-dropping scenery, pristine alpine lakes, and endless trails, this is one of Canada’s most spectacular backcountry destinations.

Have you been to Mount Assiniboine? Share your experience in the comments below!