Mount Assiniboine towers above its neighbors at 11,876ft and is often called "The Matterhorn of the Rockies" and for good reason. The north ridge offers exceptional Rockies alpine climbing in an absolutely stunning setting!
The ascent of this peak involves technical multi-pitch ice and snow climbing and is an advanced ascent.
Ascents of this mountain require 3 days minimum commitment.
Approach options are either on foot from settlers road or via helicopter from the Canmore side.
Itinerary: (3 day ascent, settlers road approach described.)
Day 1:
We will meet up early in the morning in Invermere and make any final adjustments to our gear. We will then drive to the trail head via settlers road.
The approach hike takes us through beautiful wildflowers, epic views, and the occasional bush-whack. The approach takes us up to a col overlooking the RC Hind hut. We will either stay at the Hind hut for the night or utilize a tent based camp. This is a long and strenuous day. It can be broken up if desired with an additional overnight camp.
2 day ascent itinerary:
We will wake up VERY early and start our ascent of the North ridge. Climbing this beatiful alpine ridge at dawn will take your breath away! After attaining the summit and enjoying the views we will make our descent. Much downclimbing and many rapells will bring us back to our camp (or the hut) for a well deserved rest.
Day 3:
We will pack our bags and reverse our approach route, returning to our vehicle.
Note:
To give the highest chances of success it is recommended to plan on taking an extra day or two on this trip as this mountain is notorious for poor weather making an ascent unfeasible. There are poor weather options to keep us entertained if we need to wait out a storm.
Logistics:
The maximum guest to guide ratio is 2:1
Transportation
Any vehicle will suffice. NSM can provide transport for up to 4 guests.
Accommodation
We will utilize a "light mountaineering bivi camp" or the RC hind hut.
Meals
Meals are Light weight backpacking style meals. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are provided during the trip.
Please let us know if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions prior to the start of the trip.
Equipment List
Personal Gear
Boots – 3 Season Mountaineering boots. Waterproof and crampon compatible. NSM can provide boots if required. (Included - limited availability so let us know well ahead of time your shoe size!)
Sleeping bag – good to approx. -5 or -10 degrees Celsius. (NSM can rent you this if you need it- Additional fee $10/day.)
Sleeping pad – Therm-a-rest style or closed-cell foam. (NSM can provide this if you need - Included)
Large Backpack – 50-80 litre capacity (NSM can provide this if you need - Included)
Summit-pack – 20-40 litre capacity (NSM can provide this if you need - Included)
Outer layer jacket with hood – Gore-Tex style
Lightweight outer layer waterproof pants – Gore-Tex style
Lightweight thermal layers – top & bottom, Polypro, Icebreaker, etc.
Climbing/hiking pants – nylon, fleece, Schoeller, etc. (1 pair)
Gloves (medium weight) – wool or poly-pro (2 pair)
Waterproof gloves or mitts (gloves work best) (2 pairs)
Warm parka/jacket – down, synthetic, fleece or pile (1)
Sweater or vest – wool, synthetic, fleece or down (1)
Socks – wool or synthetic blend (2-3 pairs)
Toque/warm hat – wool or fleece (1)
Sunglasses – UV block with good eye coverage (1pr)
Ski goggles (optional)
Headlamp with new batteries
Personal 1st aid (blister kit, toothbrush, blister kit, toilet paper, etc.)
Misc. personal items (camera, journal, etc.)
Sunscreen – minimum spf45
Water bottles/hydration system – minimum 1 litres
Walking pole(s) – Optional but helpful for the approach/descent
Gaiters (1 pair) – Optional if built-in paint gaiters or boot gaiters
Communal equipment (supplied by NSM):
Lightweight 2 or 3 person tent
Group tent / cooking shelter
stove and fuel
Cooking sets
Personal eating utensils – cup, bowl, spoon
Compass and map
GPS
Rope, rock, snow or ice protection
Emergency shelter
First aid kit
Satellite communication device
VHF radio
Technical equipment (supplied by NSM if required)
Ice axe and technical climbing tool
Climbing harness – seat harness only
Helmet
3 locking carabineers
1x120cm sewn sling
1 x belay/rappel device
Crampons – General Mountaineering style adjusted to your boots (1 pair)
Season and availability:
June: Early season conditions. Depending on the year there can be a lot of snow on the ground but in the right conditions it can be excellent..
July and August: Main season.
September: Fall conditions, can be excellent depending on the year.
Price estimate (Not including 5% GST):
3 day, 1 guest: From $2400.00
3 day, 2 guests: From $2700.00
If taking the Helicopter access option from the Canmore side there is an additional fee for that.
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