Mount Robson Inn

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

Posts Tagged ‘Kinney Lake’

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.

 

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.

 

Where the birds are

April 12th, 2012 by claudia

In the most recent issue of British Columbia magazine, an article on bird-watching showcases the wonderful opportunities for spotting birds here in Mount Robson Park. In an interview with Dick Cannings, one of the county’s pre-eminent birders, Dick reveals that as well as being one of the most spectacular places on the continent, Mount Robson is great for birding, as it is on an east-west/north-south border of species distribution. A walk up the Kinney Lake Road, just a few minutes away from Mountain River Lodge, can produce sightings of magnolia warbler, blackpoll warbler and Tennessee warbler species not seen in other parts of BC.

WHERE: Highway 16 runs through the middle of Mount Robson Park, offering easy access to many scenic trails, all great for birding.

WHEN: Best times to visit are from May through October.

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