With the popular Berg Lake Trail rebuilt and ready to reopen, campsite reservations will be available starting at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, April 2.
Hikers heading to the Mount Robson Park trail can reserve tent pads at any of the seven backcountry campgrounds along the 23-kilometre Berg Lake Trail for arrivals beginning June 26, the same day the full trail reopens. Reservations will be required for stays at these campgrounds throughout the season until Sept. 29.
"Mount Robson Park is a special place, attracting thousands of visitors from across Canada and beyond to experience its breathtaking natural beauty," said Tamara Davidson, minister of environment and parks, an an announcement from the province. "With repairs completed to help the trail withstand the impacts of climate change, we’re excited to welcome families and outdoor enthusiasts back to the entire Berg Lake Trail."
Located between Valemount and Jasper, the Berg Lake Trail offers views of waterfalls, turquoise lakes,and glaciers.
The trail was closed in June 2021 after severe flooding caused by heavy rain following the 2021 heat dome. The flooding washed away parts of the trail and caused significant damage to infrastructure, including bridges, picnic tables, and tent pads.
“Hiking the Berg Lake Trail is an unforgettable experience, with nearly 20,000 hikers and campers visiting each year,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport. “The full reopening of the trail is a boost for local businesses and communities, and I encourage everyone to explore the beauty of British Columbia this summer.”
The trail has been rebuilt in three phases. Phase 1, from the parking lot to Kinney Lake, reopened in 2023 for day use and overnight camping. Phase 2, from Kinney Lake to Whitehorn campground, was completed in 2024 and included a new trail route and new bridges. Phase 3, from Whitehorn to Berg Lake, has involved extensive campground upgrades, trail realignment, and floodplain mitigation. The total cost of the restoration is estimated at $5 million.
“The Berg Lake Trail and Mount Robson Park are key to our tourism economy, contributing about 25 per cent of our local revenue annually," said Valemount Mayor Owen Torgerson. "We encourage everyone to visit and experience the stunning beauty of Berg Lake.”
Winter recreation is permitted on the Berg Lake Trail, with camping available on a first-come, first-served basis at Kinney Lake and Whitehorn campgrounds from May 15 to June 25. Permits for these campsites can be purchased at the Mount Robson Welcome Centre.
“The reopening of the Berg Lake Trail is a significant boost for McBride’s tourism industry,” said McBride Mayor Eugene Runtz. “It solidifies our position as a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, showcasing the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian Rockies.”
Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, expressed excitement about the trail’s reopening. “The Berg Lake Trail is a defining experience in our region, drawing visitors from around the world and supporting local communities in the North Thompson Valley,” she said.
For updates on the final phase of construction, visitors are encouraged to check the Mount Robson Park webpage: https://bcparks.ca/mount-robson-park/.
- The Berg Lake Trail ascends 800 metres over 23 kilometres
- The trail sees nearly 20,000 backcountry hikers and campers annually
- Mount Robson, at 3,954 metres, is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
- Mount Robson Park, established in 1913, is BC's second-oldest provincial park, protecting the Fraser River's headwaters
- Reservations can be made here: https://camping.bcparks.ca
- For information on backcountry camping policies: https://bcparks.ca/reservations/backcountry-camping/reservations/
- For more about Mount Robson Park and the Berg Lake Trail: https://bcparks.ca/mount-robson-park/
