Nub Peak

For those who make it to Assiniboine Lodge, which is no easy task on its own, there is no greater way to survey the park than climbing Nub Peak. The only peak with a greater vantage point would be Mount Assiniboine itself, which has the ironic misfortune of having no view of the mountain you worked so hard to appreciate and gaze upon.

From the lodge, take the trail northwest toward Nub Peak and the Nublet. You should be able to see the peak from the lodge, which makes route finding easy. Continue following the signs and the climb will begin. You'll be blown away by the view that unfolds behind you as you emerge from the trees just below the Nublet. Try to resist taking too many pictures, as the views only improve as the climb continues.

The route will continue getting more exposed and rocky as you near the summit of the Nublet. Once there, look north at the ridgewalk and the final climb to gain Nub Peak. Those who get nervous with heights may want to stay and enjoy the Nublet instead of continuing, but the views of the park are unsurpassed for those who continue onward. Make sure to pick good weather for this hike, as lightning storms in the summer can come quickly, and there is no shelter once you are on the Nublet and on your way to Nub Peak.

From the final summit you can see virtually the entire provincial park and the rows of mountains all around that border it. Return the way you came, and be sure to do so before tea time at the lodge, which only lasts an hour and isn’t to be missed.

Note: The driving directions for this adventure only get you to the Mount Shark parking area. From there you must take a helicopter or take the 27-kilometer hike by foot or horse to access Assiniboine Lodge, where this hike begins.