Jasper National Park Centennial 5 Day Backpack Trip

Enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity!  Take part in a scenic, helicopter assisted, guided backpacking adventure through the historic Whirlpool Valley and Athabasca Pass of Jasper National Park.

The epic explorer, David Thompson, pioneered this passage nearly two centuries ago as a way over the continental divide for the expanding fur trade.  This trade route is full of legend and mystery.  It was believed to be the haunt of the legendary woolly mammoth and other beasts of lore.  For nearly 100 years, this pass was mistakenly thought to be flanked by the two highest peaks in North America; Mounts Hooker and Brown, causing much frustration for the various explores who attempted to find and climb them.  Although this route is not nearly as dangerous as it was in the past, it will still evoke nostalgic feelings as you hike alongside its many fur trade ruins and signs of travelers past.

Two departure dates for this exciting opportunity are available, September 4, 2007 and September 8, 2007.  Each group will travel for five days, up the Whirlpool Valley to Athabasca Pass or from Athabasca Pass down the Whirlpool Valley.  Participants will fly via a Bell 407 helicopter, 100 km, to either begin or finish the trip, depending on their departure date.  Plenty of time has been allotted for scenic stops, comfortable stays in camp, and a full day of exploring of the Scott Glacier basin.

Guests will be in awe of the natural pristine scenery, wildlife and history that awaits them throughout this exciting opportunity.  Your guide, Wayne Robinson, will take care of all the logistics; safety, navigation, food, comfort, and entertainment. Wayne Robinson is a professional Backpacking Guide and Interpreter sanctioned through the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) and Mountain Parks Heritage Interpretation Association (MPHIA) respectively.  His keen interests include the history of Jasper National Park, Geology, and Photography.

You may contact Wayne personally for a detailed itinerary or other general inquiries: wayne@jasperadventurecentre.com. 

Please note that space is limited to six participants per departure date and will operate with a minimum of four (total) participants.  Registration must be received by August 21, 2007.

View Map of Hike (PDF file, 1 page, 204, KB)

Special price available for reservations made before August 1, 2007.