Mount Robson Inn

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Mount Robson Marathon

August 24th, 2013 by insideout

The Mount Robson Marathon will is an “out-and-back” run on the world famous Berg Lake Trail. This year’s marathon will take place on Saturday September 7, 2013.There is a full marathon and a half marathon option.

The route passes through several different environmental zones and has its turn-around point on the shores of magnificent Berg Lake, truly making this marathon a one of a kind experience. The route is actually 46 km, or about 4 km longer than a “true” marathon. On the route, you will experience an elevation gain of 825 m (2,700 ft) from the base to the turn-around point.

For non-endurance runners, enjoy a 12km run to Kinney Lake and back. Children aged 5-12 can participate in 3/4 km and 1.5 km fun-runs around the nature trail near the Visitor Centre.

You can register for the marathon online; entry fees range from $25 to $45.

Possibly the best scenery of any marathon!

Possibly the best scenery of any marathon!

In addition to the races, other activities will take place in and around the Visitor Centre throughout the day.

Schedule for Saturday, September 7, 2013:

  • 7:30 am Full Marathon
  • 9:00 am Half Marathon
  • 12:00 pm 12km Kinney Lake
  • 2:00 pm Kids’ Fun Run
  • 3:00 pm Awards Ceremony

About the Berg Lake Trail

The trail begins in a temperate rain forest. Giant western red cedars create a magnificent canopy of old growth forest. It is an easy route through the forest to Kinney lake. Travel is relatively easy across the valley and up some moderate switch backs. It is not until passing the Whitehorn campground that the trail becomes more challenging. From here a large headwall is ascended through the valley of a thousand falls. The trail is well maintained and the views during the ascent are very impressive, especially in late June or after a rain storm. From the top of the headwall the trail follows the shoreline of Berg lake. Travel is again moderate and the magnificent view of Mt. Robson’s north face comes into view.

Lodging for the Mount Robson Marathon

The Berg Lake Trail is literally located minutes from the Mountain River Lodge. We have both independent cabins and a bed and breakfast.

 

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Northwest Mud Racing 2013

July 29th, 2013 by insideout

Northwest Mud Racing 2013

Side by Side Mud Racing – Aug 3 & 4, 2013

Are you ready for some good, clean fun? Figuratively, not literally, in this case! Side by Side Mud Racing in Valemont is coming back next weekend, August 3 & 4, 2013. Presented by the North West Mud Racing Association, this fun event involves 4×4 dragsters racing through a mod bog about three feet deep and 50 – 75 feet long. This sounds like a really great, loud and adrenaline-filled event!

Take a break from the quiet, serene surroundings of Mountain River Lodge & Cabins, in the shadow of Mt Robson, and enjoy this small town good time in nearby Valemount!

Mud Race Info

General Admission is $20. Kids under 7 are free.

Races take place at the Canoe Mountain Rodeo Grounds in Valemont, BC.

Saturday, August 3rd ~

  • Gates open at 10 a.m.
  • Beer Garden and Concessions open at 11 a.m.
  • Racing takes place from approx. 2 – 6 p.m.
  • Live music & dancing with “Wiley” at 9 p.m. $10 admission, no minors.

Sunday, August 4th ~

  • Gates & concession open at 10 a.m.
  • Beer Garden opens at 11 a.m.
  • Racing begins at noon, until 4 p.m.

Lodging for Summer Adventures in British Columbia

Whatever kind of vacation you are looking for this summer – whether it be peaceful and scenic hiking with a private cabin to come back to and rest your head, or a chance to be pampered with a bed and breakfast getaway at Mt. Robson Park, we would love to be included in your itinerary!

We have stand-alone, self contained cabins for those travelers desiring more privacy, or for those traveling with children and pets. Enjoy a full kitchen in each if our cabins, as well as an outdoor gas BBQ and fire pit with chopped firewood waiting for you.

In our Main Lodge are the bed and breakfast rooms. Located on the second floor of the lodge, they have private bathrooms and balconies with lovely views.

 

 

 

 

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The Canoe Mountain Rodeo in Valemount

July 8th, 2013 by insideout

Did you know Canada had its fair share of cowboys? That legacy lives on here, just as it does in the States, with the rodeo. An event showcasing the kind of horseback skills that were essential during the cattle drives of yore, this Rodeo is no different. Enjoy all of the traditional rodeo events plus a live country music band, dancing and steak dinner.

The Canoe Mountain Rodeo takes place this year on July 13 & 14. Located in Valemount at the Canoe River Campground Rodeo Grounds, it is only 20 minutes from our Mount Robson cabins and lodge.

The rodeo will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, with the steak dinner on Saturday night from 5 – 7 p.m., followed by dancing to the “Union Jack” band starting at 9 p.m.

Admission for each day’s events is $15, children 12 and under are free. Admission to the dance is $10.

Events at the Canoe Mountain Rodeo

  • Bareback bronc riding
  • Saddle bronc riding
  • Bull riding
  • Steer wrestling
  • Tie-down roping
  • Breakaway roping
  • Team roping
  • Ladies’ barrel racing
  • Bull-A-Rama

Junior Events at the Rodeo

  • Breakaway roping
  • Steer riding
  • Barrel racing
  • Pee wee barrel racing
  • Pole bending
  • Pee wee pole bending

 

Cedarpoint Cabin

The interior of one of our self-contained cabins.

Throughout the day, enjoy a beer garden and concessions, along with other vendors. For the kids, there is a sprinkler play space to keep ’em cool, as well as a ‘Treasure Mountain’ play area.

Traveling in British Columbia this Summer?

Do not miss the beauty and natural wonder of Mount Robson Park and Jasper National Park. Along with seeing some of the most spectacular peaks in the Canadian Rockies, you can soak in the quiet charm of the rural life we live in this area of the country. Take a hike on the Berg Lake Trail and enjoy a home cooked meal in our lodge or prepare your own steak dinner in one of our self-contained cabins.

 

 

 

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Upcoming Canada Day Celebrations

June 19th, 2013 by insideout

Come to one of the most beautiful parks in the nation for Canada Day this year! Canada Day falls on Monday July 1 this year. Celebrations will be taking place throughout Valemount, about 20 minutes from our Mount Robson lodge. Some of the events for the day include nature walks, an Arts & Craft Fair, children’s activities and free souvenirs. The Valemount Museum will be hosting folk music and giving out free cake and ice cream. They will also have other concessions for sale. There is sure to be something to interest the whole family!

Quick Canada Day History – The national holiday celebrates the anniversary of the July 1, 1867 enactment of the British North America Act, which united three colonies into a single country called Canada within the British Empire.

If you have spent the last few days hiking and exploring the park, taking a day to have some small town fun and homemade ice cream may be just the treat you need!

Mount Robson Lodging

If you are coming to visit the Park, Hike the Berg Lake Trail or climb Mount Robson, please stay with us. We are literally in the shadow of Mt. Robson and are the closest lodging option for the West side of the park.

 

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Mount Robson Bird Blitz

June 1st, 2013 by insideout

A long tradition in Mount Robson Park, the ‘Bird Blitz” takes place in June each year.  Bird enthusiasts from far and wide come to enjoy the beautiful spring scenery as well as the opportunity to observe and count the park’s incredible bird population. Volunteers help to track and record data about population and diversity. This year, the Bird Blitz is taking place June 7-9, 2013.

This annual event began in 1982. It is a popular occasion, producing long term trend information on the bird population that the park system uses when implementing use plans for Mount Robson. Approximately 170 bird species have been observed.

The type of winter and spring we are having usually affect the birds. For example, during cool and wet springs, there are usually less species of birds observed, maybe 100-105 species. Here are some of the species you can expect to see:

The Hammond Flycatcher

The Hammond Flycatcher

American Pipits at valley bottom levels, especially if there is still snow up at higher altitudes.

Hammond’s Flycatchers can be seen foraging several feet above the ground. Similarly, Alder Flycatchers will hug ground level rather than being high up.

Rufous Hummingbirds are observed at valley level.

Saw-whet Owls (often with young) can be seen by the careful observer, sometimes near Kinney Lake. This is a newer species to the park.

Wilson’s Warblers are widespread below the snow level, along with the hummingbirds.

If you are interested in participating in the Bird Blitz this June, contact Gail Ross at gailross1@telus.net or Nancy at 250-563-7896.

Lodging for a Mount Robson Visit

Whether you come to bird watch, hike or simply relax in the beautiful setting of the park, enjoy superior lodging as close to Mount Robson park as you can get.

 

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Be the Early Bird in Mount Robson and Avoid a Crowd

May 16th, 2013 by insideout

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 insideout

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 insideout

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 insideout

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 insideout

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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