Nestled in the magnificent Columbia Mountains, the Bugaboo Provincial Park commands global attention for its majestic, glacier-shaped granite spires. Standing over 3,000 metres (9,843 ft.), these glorious peaks are a striking testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of mountains and glaciers in the Purcell Mountains.

CMH Bugaboo Lodge Experience

Basking in the glory of iconic Bugaboo spires, with a stay at the historic CMH Bugaboo Lodge – which stands triumphantly, merging timeless charm with modern luxury. It offers unmatched views of North America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

During the summer season, hikers can experience heli-hiking drop offs at crystalline lakes and lush wildflower alpine meadows. Come winter, heli-skiers/riders tear down the slopes – a sport that just so happened to be invented in this very place (in 1964) by CMH founder Hans Gmoser.

Stride confidently amongst the dancing glaciers and dramatic spires or let your adrenaline surge on an exhilarating Skyladder Via Ferrata journey. Trust that your guides will expertly cater each day’s adventures to your specific interests and abilities.

Your Own Journey of Discovery

When planning a visit to this park, it is the utmost importance to equip yourself with sturdy, water-resistant, lug-soled boots. BC Parks recommend carrying a daypack loaded with food supplies, rain gear, and additional warming attire. For those intending to extend their stay overnight, essential items include a sleeping bag, a ground pad, a waterproof tent or a bivouac bag, and a lightweight portable stove.  

Conquering the trail from the trailhead to Conrad Kain Hut is an exhilarating 9.2-km return journey, boasting an impressive 762-meter (2,500 ft.) elevation gain. Brace yourself for a rapid ascension and the challenge of knee-testing steps over a rugged terrain of rocks and boulders.

The trail offers bolted chains and metal ladder on more exposed portions for absolute support and safety. Rejoice as you finally reach the Conrad Kain Hut tucked underneath the magnificent Snowpatch Spire. Feast your eyes upon the mesmerizing sight of the Hound’s Tooth and the expansive valley. Expect a more challenging hike in wet conditions; the Bugaboos are famous for their wild weather.

Only those with substantial climbing experience, ample practice in crevasse rescue, and the right equipment should dare to venture onto snowfields and glaciers. It’s paramount to understand that climbers are held accountable for their own safety.

NOTE: Rescue and public communication services may not be readily available at all times. We strongly advise climbers to consult with the designated hut keepers about current conditions and destinations prior to setting off. A “register” for this purpose is diligently maintained at the Conrad Kain Hut for convenience and monitoring.

Conrad Kain Hut

The journey marked by Austrian Conrad Kain who scaled the heights of the Bugaboo Spire back in 1916, paved the way for countless climbers to experience. Be sure to secure your spot in-advance with the Alpine Club of Canada Hut. Members and non-members can book up to six months in advance, if you plan to overnight in the hut.

The Hut offers shared facilities (sleeps 35 people), and the hut’s amenities include: a propane stove, a mattress pad, an outhouse, an electric heater & light source, and a creek with running water. It has been expressed by other hikers/climbers that this is “the best place on the planet” to experience breathtaking views, while savour a meal or enjoying a freshly brewed mug of coffee.

Boulder and Applebee Dome Campgrounds

Below the Conrad Kain Hut is Boulder Camp, and atop, 1-km away, is the Applebee Dome Campground. To utilizing the amenities of these backcountry campgrounds, pre-requisite registration for a backcountry permit is mandatory.

The backcountry permit can be procured in advance via the BC Parks reservation service. Please note, the acquisition of this permit doesn’t guarantee a campsite reservation, but enables ahead-of-time payment, negating the necessity to carry cash. BC Parks strongly advocate for early registration, if feasible.

The camping nightly rate as of December 2024, is $10 per adult per night, 16 years & older, $5 per youth, 6-15 years and children under 6 years are free. Please self-register at a trailhead, follow the instructions on the registration station. Fill out the form, deposit your payment in the drop box, and keep your permit with you. Your payment must be in cash.

Both campgrounds, run on a first-come, first-available basis. There are no designated campsites at these campgrounds.  You choose the area that best suits you.

NOTE: To prevent contamination of the water supply and damage to the sensitive alpine environment, camping in the park is not permitted elsewhere in the vicinity of the main spires (Bugaboo, Snowpatch, Crescent, Pigeon, and Howsers) or the Cobalt Lake area. Bivouacking is not permitted unless circumstances dictate its necessity. 

Driving to the Trailhead

Road access to the park is a straight-forward route-finding, 50-km off Highway #95 near Brisco (between Golden & Radium Hot Springs), along a rough gravel road. Hhigh clearance vehicles are recommended.  While accessing this park, it’s possible to come across logging trucks and other industrial traffic. It is advised to proceed with utmost care and, in the interest of personal safety, always “give way” to the industrial vehicles.

Additional Tips

~ This hike is ‘off-grid’ – and you will be out of cell phone reception. To ensure a seamless adventure, you will need to come prepared and completely self-sufficient.

~ Once you turn onto the Forest Service Road, there are no facilities, until the trailhead parking area.  If you stop for a bathroom break, please pack-out your waste.

~ Upon reaching the trailhead, area hikers suggest safeguarding your vehicle from potential interference by porcupines and other animals, as per the park’s recommendations. Secure your vehicle with chicken-wire and fortified with rocks and sticks supplied by the Park. 

~ Be extremely careful with not leaving any food out.  Please practice ‘pack-in and pack-out’ responsible wilderness travel ethics, when staying at the hut and/or campgrounds.

~ A reminder: You are in the mountains, make sure you have clothing and footwear that can keep you warm & dry, in case of any rain, hail or snowstorms (which can occur at anytime, including the summer months).  

Please note: Mountain biking, drones, fires, and domestic animals are prohibited in Bugaboo Provincial Park.