A steady overnight and early morning rain both literally and figuratively dampened our crack of dawn departure intentions. However, the rain did slow in the morning hours so we packed some trail lunches and our raingear and set out along the Berg Lake Trail toward  Kinney Lake. This trail provides numerous back country camping and hiking opportunities of long and varied durations, winding through rugged terrain around Mt. Robson in the Valley of A Thousand Falls. The White Horn area along the trail had come highly recommended so we set that as a fairly arbitrary goal as we knew we would have to backtrack for our return – no loop trail here. The trail commences along a vigorous stretch of the Mt. Robson River which is a beautiful chalky shade of blue/gray. The color comes from what is referred to as rock flour – essentially calcareous minerals flaking off the rock faces. The first three kilometers of the trail were fairly wide, with limited tripping hazards and occasional informative plaques highlighting the geologic history of the mountain. After reaching Kinney Lake, approximately four kilometers,  the trail narrows and the terrain becomes more rugged, through rock outcroppings, aspen stands, coniferous forests and alluvial fans. Quite spectacular throughout all ecotones. The trails are in excellent condition, completely litter, bicycle, and dog free. We encountered numerous backcountry hikers apparently from many corners of the globe. Perhaps most interesting were the several families we passed with small children each hauling their own gear, with packs almost as big as they. We even encountered one couple with a very young baby, on their way to one of the back country campsites. Seems like quite a load to carry but yet a fabulous means of exposing children to the great outdoors and the life lessons that go with it.

We culminated our trip at White Horn which is an inspiring point along the river with a pedestrian suspension bridge.  We paused here, at the 11 km mark, for lunch and rest, admiring the countless waterfalls and glaciers adorning the surrounding rock faces. Cold water and cold wind here, but a welcome change after the climb. We turned around and began the return trip promptly after lunch, taking a slightly alternative route where possible. This entailed a trail which traverses back and forth through the riverbed and alluvial fan. Obviously not  accessible during the spring months. The scenery was equally spectacular upon second viewing along the return trip although we were happy to make it back to the trail head, completing the 24 km trip! A lift from some friendly German tourists from the trailhead back to the camp ground was much appreciated and save a few extra ks.  Really an excellent hike and we were proud of our stamina.

The evening consisted of steak burritos (the rib-eyes live on), a lot of relaxation and the realization that the sole of my hiking boot is separating and will require repair. A light rain began to fall and, in our exhaustion, we probably neglected some of the duties which may have kept things slightly drier. A full day ends with a good night’s sleep.

Suspension bridge before Whitehorn campground

Whitehorn area

Overlooking alluvial fan of Kinney Lake