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Climbing Mount Athabasca, 2 days in the Canadian Rockies

Climbing Mount Athabasca
Climbing Mount Athabasca
Climbing Mount Athabasca
Climbing Mount Athabasca

Follow Jeff on this mountaineering trip to the summit of the stunning Mount Athabasca. Explore one of Canada’s most beautiful spots.

Rockies

2 Days

Jun - Oct

High

Intermediate


Highlights

* Stand at the summit of Mount Athabasca with one of our expert guides

* Explore Alberta, one of Canada’s most beautiful provinces

* Get the most mesmerizing views of the Rockies

Description

Canada is a synonym of beauty and wilderness. Dare to leave behind all the stress of the big cities and modernity, and venture into the wild and pristine land of this beautiful country. Join this mountaineering adventure in the Canadian Rockies, and reach the summit of one of its most impressive peaks, Mount Athabasca.

Mount Athabasca (3,491 m) is one of the most accessible ascents in the Rockies. It is located right next to the Banff-Jasper Parkway. From that entrance, we can reach the summit on just one long and exciting day. What’s more, this splendid mountain is surrounded by an enchanting forest of pine trees. Thus, creating a green wave of fresh scents and bright colors, in which this colossal peak stands out for its singular beauty.  Also, Mount Athabasca lies at the heart of the Columbia Icefields, a vast territory of glacier ice and dazzling sceneries

This weekend program involves 1 day of skills training and then the Athabasca ascent on day 2. You can find the details in the itinerary below. You will need strong hiking or scrambling experience to join. This ascent is a great way to further your skills!

Moreover, some of the most stunning glaciers in the country are in the area, such as Athabasca and Saskatchewan. Hence, making it a real treat for the eye and the senses, that you cannot miss.

If you are up for this mountaineering adventure, just request to book this trip. One of our expert and certified guides will guide you to the summit of Mount Athabasca. And share with you the best spots in this marvelous place.

But, if you’re looking for a different type of adventure also in the area, you can check this Bugaboo Spire rock climbing (NE Ridge), 3 days.

Price includes

- Guiding fee

Price details

The listed price is to join a group of a minimum of 3 people and does not include 5% GMT taxes. Groups of up to 12 can be arranged and private guiding is also an option at a different price. Please contact me for more details. You will have a 3:1 client to guide ratio on the climbing day. Open groups run throughout the summer on weekends.


Itinerary

Day 1: Skills Day

Saturday will be a skills day which may include climbing a smaller peak. We will work on ice climbing, glacier travel, crevasse rescue, rappelling, and ice screw anchors. The meeting time is 08:30 AM on day 1 at the ice fields campground in Jasper National Park, the group will be car camping at this location.

Day 2: Mt. Athabasca summit

Sunday the group will attempt Mt Athabasca (3491m), it will be an early start leaving camp around 4 a.m., so take the time to condition yourself the week before. If for whatever reason we can’t climb Athabasca, we will attempt one of the lower peaks in the region.

 

FAQs

Do I need climbing experience for this?

Minimum experience in strong hiking or scrambling. This course suits all levels of climbers, from beginners to advanced.

Is gear included in the price, or is there specific gear I need for this?

All technical gear is included except crampons, harness, axe & helmet which can be rented from us. Alpine kits can be rented for $30.00/day/person. We also rent mountaineering boots for $20.00/day/person.

What's included in the price? What's not?

The guiding service and the group climbing equipment (rope, etc.) are included in the price.

The following items are not included in the price:

  • accommodations
  • transportation
  • food
  • your personal equipment. Part of it such as crampons, harness, ice axe & helmet can be rented with us.

Where will we meet our guide? At what time is the meeting on the 1st day?

You will meet the guides at 08:30 at the Icefields campground at the Columbia Icefields. Please find the location here: https://goo.gl/maps/TMf2ZvSQnBkKt9CU6

What equipment should I bring with me?

We'll send you a detailed list of equipment to take after you book the tour.

What will happen if Athabasca can't be climbed?

One of the many other lower mountains will be attempted if Athabasca is unreachable for some reason, or if the weather is unfavorable. We may go to Banff for a day of rock climbing and/or skills training.

When is this tour available?

You can climb Mt Athabasca with us from beginning of June till end of October.

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration
The Crimson Jasper Jasper Canada
See rooms
Marmot Lodge Jasper Canada
See rooms
Chateau Jasper Jasper Canada
See rooms

About the guide

Guide profile image

Jeff

4.80

(58)

Mountain Guide

Alpine Air Adventures is an independent mountain guiding business run by Jeff Bullock. I am a fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide, with my training and certification through the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides, and the Canadian Avalanche Association.

We specialize in outdoor Banff adventures including: rock climbing, ice climbing, alpine climbing, backcountry skiing and snowboarding, avalanche courses and improvised rope rescue courses.

Based out of Banff, Alberta, Canada in the heart of the rugged Canadian Rocky Mountains, Alpine Air offers everything mountain. My main emphasize is to offer safe and unforgettable Banff adventures to my guests. With the allure of the mountains right at my doorstep I am always keen to take on any adventure and I am excited to have you along. Contact me to begin organizing your dream mountain ascent or descent.

Languages

French | English

Certificates

ACMG | IFMGA

Request more information

What people are saying about this trip

Owen

5.00

We have been going on mountaineering and ski trips with Jeff Bullock for about five years now. Most recently, we climbed Mt. Athabasca with Jeff in August 2020. No matter what the adventure, we love Jeff’s approach to guiding. We always feel safe going with him and always have a great time. Jeff brings humility, humour, honesty, a passion for teaching and great stories. We will continue to do our dream trips with Jeff and Alpine Air Adventures in the future!

Michael

5.00

Summitted mt. Athabasca with Jeff and it was an unbelievable experience. Breathtaking views and excellent coaching along the way

Emma

5.00

Jeff is an exceptional individual and excellent mountain guide. Our climb up Athabasca was a truly amazing experience. I saw a sea of mountain peaks that I had never seen before. Alpine air adventures offers in my opinion the best value for money when it comes to alpine climbing. Highly recommended!

Shahzad

5.00

Honest, helpful, reliable and very experienced.


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