Mount Robson Inn

Phone: 1-250-566-9899  BC & AB: 1-888-566-9899

Be the Early Bird in Mount Robson and Avoid a Crowd

May 16th, 2013 by Katie Pate

Take advantage of traveling in the shoulder season, before the crowds come to one of the most beautiful parks in all of the Canadian Rockies.

We will also reward your early travel decision with a discount on your lodging. Book now for a stay between May 21 – June 20 and receive:

  • 10% off 2 nights
  • 15% off 3 nights
  • 20% off 4 nights & more

If you come during this time of year, you will find snow still on the ground in many places, but with green blades of grass poking through and new buds on all the branches. It is a magical time of rebirth in the mountains! Often still very empty with few visitors before the warmth of summer days.

black bear near north thompson highwayAnother benefit of arriving at the park early: wildlife viewing. Baby animals are being born, bears are coming out of hibernation and many animals in the park are ready to forage for food after the long, hard winter. Bears wake up hungry after winter in the high country of the Canadian Rockies. Spring mushrooms and dandelions are some of the first plants to grow, and bears find these delicious! Beside the highways and roads in Mount Robson Park are fields of yellow dandelions, which a foraging bear will quickly devour as he moves through the area and munches the tops off the flowers. It’s hard to imagine that a cow would do a better or faster job than the hungry bear!

Mt Robson Lodging for a Springtime Adventure

Whatever time of year you decide to visit Mt Robson Park – whether it is deep in the winter for peaceful solace in the cold, white snow, or an adventure among the greening hills and mountains of spring, we offer both cabin and bed and breakfast lodging for your trip to the park.

 

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Cycling in Mt. Robson

April 30th, 2013 by Katie Pate

We know some of our guests enjoy cycling. There are several nice places to ride in Mt. Robson Park. Here’s a rundown:

  • Berg Lake Trail – Cycling permitted on the 7 km section from the trail head to the north end of Kinney Lake. A bike rack is located at Kinney Lake. The trail follows the river for most of the way. Note the milky turquoise-blue color of the glacier fed river as it roars down along the trail. Once you arrive at Kinney Lake and if the weather is clear, you will never forget the fantastic view of mountain and glacier reflecting in the calm water. It’s a classic shot of British Columbia beauty.
  • Corridor – Trans Mountain Pipeline offers relatively flat terrain that parallels the highway corridor and is well suited for a family ride or beginners. The pipeline right of way west of Hargreaves Road is private property and is closed to public use.

    The Fraser River

    The Fraser River

  • Robson Meadows - Various cycling opportunities exist in the immediate area. This is a beautiful forested area by the Fraser River. Interesting trails allow you to experience the nature wonder of Mt. Robson. Close to the Visitor Center, store and restaurant.
  • Robson River – Another beautiful forested area by the Robson River. Easy walking distance to the Mount Robson Park’s Visitor Centre and the famous Berg Lake Trail, restaurant and store.

Keep in mind: Pedestrians have the right of way and so do horses, so if you encounter horses on the trail, please dismount and let them pass. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia. There are no bicycle rentals available at the park. A company in Jasper, Alberta – called Freewheel Cycle offers bicycle rentals. Don’t approach wildlife, a bell is nice for announcing your presence.

Lodging for Your Mt. Robson Holiday

This summer, choose the closest inn to Mt Robson for great lodging in a stunningly beautiful setting – River Mountain Lodge.

 

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Canadian Rockies Train Ride

April 21st, 2013 by Katie Pate

Are looking for a way to see a lot of the Canadian Rockies without having to hike or mountain climb your way through the peaks? We have the ideal experience for retirees, those with limited mobility or individuals that want to experience the magic of the Canadian Rockies without “roughing it.” Take the train.

A truly glorious experience for anyone – families, couples and even those that love the outdoors. Riding the Rocky Mountaineer is sure to be an awe inspiring experience. Most people spend their trip with their nose pressed to the wide glass windows of the train, soaking in the scenery and absorbing interesting contextual information provided by the hosts. These storytellers recall history and myth about the surrounding landscapes.

There are a variety of tours that take you through Jasper, which is about 45 minutes from our Mount Robson Inn. The two main tours are called “Journey Through the Clouds,” which traverses the Western part of the Canadian Rockies, and “Rainforest to Gold Rush,” Rocky Mountaineer’s newest route which takes you through pristine wilderness from Whistler to Jasper.

Rocky Mountain Train Routes

Through the Clouds: The route includes two days on the train from Vancouver to Jasper (or reverse).

Jasper National Park

A waterfall in Jasper National Park

The trip costs $935 and includes two days of daylight rail travel, two breakfasts and lunches and one night hotel accommodation. A wonderful way to experience much more of the Rockies than hiking (unless you’ve got all summer), this can be a delightful way to start or end a Rocky Mountain vacation.

Rainforest to Gold Rush: The same trip as above, except this route runs between Jasper and Whistler. These trips are great to keep in mind for saving on airfare if you are coming from out of the area. If you fly into Whistler, ride the train to Jasper and then rent a car, you can have a nice balance of guided versus independent touring.

Either of these trips will be complete once you come and stay with us at our bed and breakfast in the shadow of the Rockies’ highest peak, Mount Robson!

 

 

 

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Wildlife Conservation at Mount Robson

March 30th, 2013 by Katie Pate

In the last blog post, we talked about overall conservation practices in Mount Robson Park, specifically protecting the headwaters of the Fraser River.

For this post, we want to continue to the conservation theme by writing about wildlife conservation practices at the park. Nature is not only about scenery, it is also about a place where ecosystems thrive and a variety of species survive.

To date, 42 species of mammals, four amphibians, one reptile (I wonder what it is!) and 182 species of birds are recorded as residing in the park. These are typical species of the moist, western slope of the Rocky Mountains.

The Mountain Goat on top of the Mount Robson Park Sign

The Mountain Goat on top of the Mount Robson Park Sign

From Moose who graze the valley bottoms to the Mountain Goats and Golden eagles of the Alpine Tundra Zone, all four bio-geo-climactic zones within the park provide habitat for species whom have adapted the unique characteristics found in each zone. Some animals, like the Grizzly bear or Mule Deer, find suitable habitats in multiple zones or elevations.

Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing are available on a drive through the highway corridor in late Spring. Park staff have observed Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Moose, Elk, Wolf, Coyote, Black Bear, Grizzly Bear and a large variety of waterfowl.

In the spring, Elk mothers (cows) become extremely protective of their new calves. Moose and deer will also actively defend their young but Elk seem most prone to short tempers when confronted with anything they perceive as a threat to their young. In the fall of the year its the male Elks that can become aggressive. The “mating or rutting” season in September and October can make even the most seemingly docile Elk, Moose or Deer aggressive. Although they are beautiful, give all wildlife the space they need to ensure their safety and yours. The best way to observe wildlife close up is with binoculars.

A number of the valleys in the park have no routes or trails and extremely low levels of human use. This is in keeping with the belief that “wilderness” means wild and the Grizzly Bears, Caribou, Wolverines and other wilderness-loving species seem quite happy to keep it that way.

Wildlife Lovers Welcomed at Mountain River Lodge

We love the wilderness, just like you do. That is why we offer the accommodations closest to Mount Robson park. Come and visit us this spring.

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Conservation at Mount Robson Park

March 17th, 2013 by Katie Pate

Mount Robson Park provides representation of all the North Continental Range landscapes. The park protects multiple complex ecosystems, represented by four bio-geo-climatic zones. These ecosystems are called Interior Cedar Hemlock (ICH), located in the valley bottoms, Sub-boreal Spruce (SBS), Englemann Spruce-subalpine Fir (ESSF) and finally up slope to the Alpine Tundra (AT) zone. The vegetation communities change as the elevation increases.

As the vegetation changes, so does the wildlife. The diversity of species inside the park is a product of the diverse elevations. 182 species of birds are present in the park. Predator and prey relationships remain undisturbed by human interference in 80% of the park-zoned wilderness area. In fact, vast areas are zoned for wilderness conservation, meaning human use is not encouraged in any way – not even through the development of trails.

The beauty of Mount Robson wilderness is preserved for generations to come.

The beauty of Mount Robson wilderness is preserved for generations to come.

The park believes (and rightly so) the most important “customers” in these large wilderness areas are the wide variety of flora and fauna that depend on an undisturbed, intact wilderness.

In addition to protecting the largest peak in the entire Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson also protects beautiful, expansive alpine areas, clear rivers, lakes and highly valued wetland habitat. While towering mountains and imposing rock formations inspire and awe we humans, the main feature of the park, from a conservation perspective, is the headwaters of the Fraser River.

The Fraser River is of one of the world’s great rivers. Within the park, however, it is no more than a small, crystal clear creek. Believe it or not, this is the same river that empties into the Pacific Ocean, over 1,200 kilometers away in Vancouver. The very source of the great river lies in the south east corner of the park in Fraser Pass. Imagine drinking water from the very of start of one of the great rivers on this planet. Future generations will no doubt be grateful we protected over 100 kilometres of the Fraser River’s headwaters within Mount Robson Park.

Celebrate the Natural Wonder of Mount Robson at Mountain River Lodge

There is little we love more than this glorious landscape and all the wildlife that finds sustenance here. That is why we started our bed and breakfast in the shadow of Mount Robson, minutes from the Berg Lake trail. We also have stand alone cabins. We hope to see you finding solace here this spring.

 

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Last Chance to take a Maligne Canyon Ice Walk

March 7th, 2013 by Katie Pate

With Spring just around the corner, the temperature will soon increase and ice will start to melt in places with lower elevations, like Maligne Canyon. This is probably your last month of the season to take an ice walk in this magical place.

With its frozen waterfalls, surreal ice formations and frosted limestone walls, Maligne Canyon is a bewitching place in the winter. It can also be a dangerous place. Several deaths and serious injuries have occurred in and around Maligne Canyon in winter months.

The safest way to visit Maligne canyon is to go with a guide. Several local tour companies offer guided walks. For information contact the Information Center: 780-852-6176 or www.jasper.travel
If you choose to go on your own, you do so at your own risk and be prepared! Here are some recommendations from the park service:

  • Make sure you have the right gear and clothing, ice cleats are highly recommended
  • Supervise children
  • Visit a local guide or the park information center before you go

    Make sure to check in with the information center before beginning a winter excursion.

    Make sure to check in with the information center before beginning a winter excursion.

  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return
  • Bring a headlamp – you never know when you might be delayed
  • Travel at night is not advised

Companies Offering Guided Maligne Canyon Tours

Maligne Adventures: This is Jasper’s most popular winter tour! Explore the entrance to a cave system, ice caves, fossils and towering frozen waterfalls stretching over 30m up the canyon walls. They offer tread enhancing cleats and winter boots to help you stay warm and feel secure while walking on the ice. The trip lasts three hours, with two hours on the trail. Departs Daily at 9:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. Price: Adults: $55.00; Children: $27.50

Jasper Lodging

At Mountain River Lodge we have stand alone cabins and a bed and breakfast lodge. We would love to be your lodging choice during your visit to Jasper Park in Canada.

 

 

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Wildlife Viewing in Mount Robson Park

February 20th, 2013 by Katie Pate

Although the bears are still sleeping, there is plenty of wildlife activity in the park during the winter. Ek, mule deer and coyote are common. Driving the Corridor through the center of the park is a good place to look for moose, mountain sheep and caribou. Wolves are sometimes seen in the quieter corners of the park. Herds of elk can be seen as well.

Remember: these are wild animals! If you should see them, keep your distance for your own safety and do not feed them for your sake and theirs. Winter can be an especially difficult time for animals. Your respect for their need to feed and rest undisturbed will help them survive.

If you are patient, you might see a fox like this one foraging or hunting in the snow.

If you are patient, you might see a fox like this one foraging or hunting in the snow.

Though they seldom show themselves to humans, mammals like snowshoe hares, martens, weasels, lynx, foxes, cougars and wolverines are also active in the park in winter. If you don’t actually see these animals you are certain to see signs of their presence. The winter snow is like a blank page on which the comings and goings of the park’s inhabitants are recorded for anyone who takes the time to interpret the tracks left behind.

Winter Time Lodging near Mount Robson

Our cabins are open year round! So if you love to explore on snowshoes, cross country skis or the like, and take in the quiet peace of wintertime, we would love to be your hosts. Mountain River lodge has accommodations with breakfast service and stand alone cabins.

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Cross Country Skiing in Jasper National Park

February 7th, 2013 by Katie Pate

One of the most popular winter activities in Jasper National Park is cross country skiing. It’s a great way to see the beauty of the park at winter and enjoy the solace of the snowy landscape.

The Canadian Parks system just put out a new cross country ski trails map. Here are some descriptions of the most popular trails.

Athabasca Falls
This staging area offers a network of over 20 km of ski trail, including level terrain and challenging hills that are sure to get your heart rate up. Pick one, or connect the trails and loops together to make a day of it!

Whirlpool Trail: Gentle terrain brings you from the parking lot to a junction at km 2.2– stay right and continue along this easy section until km 5.8, where the terrain begins to roll.

Jasper National Park winter activities

A moose at Moab Lake inside Jasper National Park.

Beyond this point the snow tends to improve as you climb towards Moab Lake.

Leach Lake Trail: Also known as the sunny side, this trail brings you to sparkling Leach Lake. Near Athabasca Falls, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mount Hardisty and Kerkeslin.

Geraldine Road: This winding road has plenty of ups and downs. You’ll build up a sweat as you climb, but bring an extra layer for the ski towards Mt. Kerkeslin, which will get your adrenaline rushing as you zoom down this slope.

Cavell Road

If you are ready for a workout, this winding route along the Astoria River Valley will work up your appetite! This route opens on February 16. 11.6 km to the Cavell Hostel.

Looking for Lodging Near Jasper National Park?

Our Rocky Mountains lodge is a scenic 45 minute drive away from Jasper National Park. Along the way, watch for wildlife like moose at Moose Lake, bears foraging for berries, and the large herd of wapiti (elk) that have made the valley floor of Jasper National park home for over 10,000 years.

 

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Canadian Rocky Mountains Getaway

January 21st, 2013 by Katie Pate

During these long and dark winter months, break up the monotony with a getaway to the stunning and scenic Canadian Rockies. Next month is Valentine’s Day and for those of you celebrating, our Mt Robson Lodge is a secluded and private destination for you and your loved one.

Whether you would prefer the pampering of our bed and breakfast lodging, or the privacy of a self-contained cabin, we have just the right place for you. Each of our cabins has a fully equipped kitchen, romantic fireplace and satellite TV. Pet-friendly cabins are also available – because sometimes, dogs are part of the family!

If you stay in the lodge, we prepare breakfast fresh every morning as part of your stay. Enjoy chatting with other guests, many times international, around the breakfast table!

Stir Fry

Enjoy a delicious meal made here at Mountain River Lodge, especially for you.

Our secluded cabins, along with the lodge, are on the banks of a glacier river. Glass french doors in the cabins provide stunning views of the largest mountain in the Canadian Rockies – Mount Robson.

We think that winter in the Rockies can be the perfect time for a couple to just unwind, cozy up together and reconnect during these quiet months. We serve an evening meal here at the Inn, so if you don’t want to, you barely have to leave the property!

However, if you prefer to explore the nearby mountain towns, we recommend Valemount, about 20 minutes away by car. The quaint town is fun for shopping or having a drink at the pub. We also enjoy the food at Earl’s, which has a lively environment. Fiddle River is a nice place for fish and seafood. And of course, outdoor activities abound.

Bring yourself and your loved one for a getaway in one of the most beautiful places in the world – the Rockies. We look forward to being your hosts!

 

 

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Things to Do in Jasper National Park during Winter, Part II

December 31st, 2012 by Katie Pate

If you’re just joining us, we are sharing a Top 10 list of winter activities in Jasper National Park. Click through to see the first half of the list from our earlier post.

5. Observe Ice Formations at Maligne Canyon. With its frozen waterfalls, surreal ice formations and frosted limestone walls, Maligne Canyon is a magical place in the winter. Several local tour companies lead guided walks down into the canyon. The adventurous can ice climb with a certified mountain guide, or go on your own, if you have the skills. Maps and guidebook are sold at the information center and local outdoor shops.

6. Ice Skate. What could be more Canadian than pond skating? The ice is monitored and cleared for skating at Mildred and Pyramid lakes. Both locations offer free-skating ovals and rinks for shinny hockey. Once in a while, temperatures drop before the snow falls, leaving many ponds and lakes covered in a thick layer of transparent ice. In these conditions, it seems you are flying across the ice! Make sure you have the necessary safety information before heading out, Parks Canada does not monitor the ice.

Read the rest of this page »

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