3-Day Mount Assiniboine Trek With Helicopter Ride

Mount Assiniboine, often called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” rises like a jagged spire over turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and dramatic glacial valleys. It’s remote, wild, and seriously photogenic.

Because there are no roads to Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, getting there is part of the adventure. Most hikers fly in by helicopter from Canmore or Mount Shark, then hike out through the backcountry over 2–3 days.

The scenery is next-level, just image wildflower-filled meadows, craggy peaks, and reflective glacial lakes that look like they were designed for postcards. You’ll pass landmarks like Lake Magog, Og Lake, and The Nubs viewpoint.

There are two ways you can trek from Mount Assiniboine, to the north via Citadel Pass in Banff National Park to Sunshine Village or you can hike east through Wonder Pass to Marvel Lake and Mount Shark in Kananaskis Country.

While this trek is doable for experienced hikers, an ACMG hiking guide adds a layer of comfort and depth. They’ll handle logistics, navigation, food, and safety, so you can fully relax into the experience while giving you an in-depth interpretation of flora, fauna and fungi as well as local legends, stories and indigenous history.

Banff National Park Route Itinerary

Day 1: Helicopter to Assiniboine & Hike Around

Helicopter Flight + 6–10 km of hiking

• Take a scenic helicopter ride from Mount Shark to Lake Magog near Assiniboine Lodge.
• Drop gear at your campsite or hut, then spend the day exploring local trails.
• Suggested hikes:
• Sunburst and Cerulean Lakes (easy 6 km return): Crystal-clear lakes and mountain reflections.
• Nub Peak Loop (moderate 7–9 km): Epic panoramic views of Mount Assiniboine from the ridge.
• Settle in for a night under the stars near the base of the mountain.

Day 2: Hike to Og Lake or Porcupine Campground

Distance: 13–17 km | Time: 5–7 hours

• Start your trek out via the Valley of the Rocks, a surreal landscape of boulders and hoodoos.
• Pass Og Lake (beautiful lunch stop or camp spot) with views of Assiniboine behind you.
• Continue to Porcupine Campground (if you’re up for more distance).
• Expect rolling alpine meadows, larch trees, and wildlife like mountain goats or marmots.

Day 3: Hike to Sunshine Village via Citadel Pass

Distance: 15–18 km | Time: 6–8 hours

• Begin the day with a steady climb toward Citadel Pass.
• Hike through alpine lakes and meadows before descending into Sunshine Meadows.
• Finish at Sunshine Village and shuttle back to Canmore or Banff.
• Optional: Celebrate with pizza and a beer. You’ve earned it.

Kananaskis Country Route Itinerary

Day 1: Helicopter In + Explore Around Assiniboine

Helicopter Flight + 6–10 km of hiking

• Catch a heli from Mount Shark to Lake Magog.
• Set up camp at Lake Magog Campground or stay at a hut/lodge nearby.
• Spend the afternoon exploring:
• Sunburst & Cerulean Lakes (6 km return): Calm, glacial blue waters beneath rocky peaks.
• The Nub (Nublet or Nub Peak) (7–9 km): Best panoramic views in the park.
• Watch alpenglow on Assiniboine from camp, which is pure magic.
• This is a dark sky zone, which makes it excellent for Aurora Borealis viewing

Day 2: Hike to Marvel Lake via Wonder Pass

Distance: ~13 km | Time: 5–6 hours

• Pack up and head south over Wonder Pass—a high alpine route with incredible views.
• Enjoy lush meadows, towering cliffs, and glimpses of Marvel Peak and glaciers.
• Descend into the Marvel Lake valley with jaw-dropping views the whole way down.
• Camp near Marvel Lake or at Bryant Creek (depending on permit availability).

Day 3: Hike to Mount Shark Trailhead

Distance: ~13–15 km | Time: 4–6 hours

• Hike through peaceful forest and along the Bryant Creek trail toward Mount Shark.
• Cross creeks, pass old cabins, and maybe spot wildlife on the quieter sections of the trail.
• Reach the trailhead and shuttle back to Canmore or Banff.

Why Go With A Hiking Guide?

This trek crosses remote terrain with no phone signal, few markers, and variable weather. A guide gives you peace of mind—and a deeper connection to the land.

They know the best photo spots, safest creek crossings, and hidden gems like quiet view points or off-trail meadows full of wildflowers.

Plus, you won’t need to carry heavy food packs or worry about booking flights, permits, or figuring out where to camp.

Just show up with your gear, a sense of adventure, and let the mountains work their magic.

Ready for an Epic Mount Assiniboine Adventure?

Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek or a chance to unplug in wild beauty, Mount Assiniboine delivers.

Book your guided trek and experience Mount Assiniboine the way it was meant to be…fully present, deeply connected, and awe-inspired.

Location

Google Reviews

4.6

212 reviews

Add Review

Read More Reviews