Mt. Robson

My first backpacking experience, as told by my dad.

By 2005, my canoe trippers had left home and it was time for something new. What could be more fun than exploring the Rockies. So I chose the biggest challenge I could find, Mount Robson. Chris agreed to come with me (He never learns). Perhaps our last chance for an adventure because little did he know that graduation, jobs, debts and diapers awaited him.

Berg lake was our destination, named for the mini icebergs calving off the Berg lake glacier that flows down Mount Robson's flank. We had committed to hiking there in one day instead of two which proved to be very tough. We followed a gorgeous white water stream up through the B.C. rainforest, past a glacial green lake, up a vast steep valley beside countless waterfalls, then above the tree line to a barren moraine surrounded by peaks but always in Robson's massive shadow. 22 kms up and up. Packs too heavy. Knees giving out. Christopher did ok except for a severe chafing problem - I won't tell you where but you can guess. McGyver time. After a few bizzare ideas we opted for a generous application of duct tape. It didn't help a bit and I'm pretty sure taking it off hurt....a lot.

The next day, without packs we hiked ever higher with stupendous views. Freezing temps dictated that we start in mitts and toques. Two hours later we were roasting in the sun.

Suddenly Chris just boiled over. Without a word, he sat down and pulled out his knife and turned pants into shorts by just hacking off the legs. I am still not sure if it was the thin air or a psychotic break but there is no stopping Chris when he has lost his mind so we stayed well back.

On our last morning, Mount Robson seemed to acknowledge our effort. Because of it's height the mountain wear a near constant cloudy crown but for a brief time she took off her veil; a spectacular sight. Then down; easier than up but in our state still hard. By the end we were physically pitiful but mentally elated. (That's my story and I am sticking to it.)

So all in all a great trip. I felt incredibly blessed to have visited such a special spiritual place. Magic. Chris put the whole thing best.

"If I ever agree to backpack again, just shoot me."

My thoughts on Mt. Robson 20 years later - I was underprepared for the physical challenge. I was carrying too much weight and the itinerary Dad picked was too ambitious. I found the hiking so hard that I really couldn't enjoy the experience as much as it deserved. It was an eye opening experience and I am glad I found my way back to hiking adventures years later on my own terms. I will take the lessons learned to heart and promise not to underestimate the importance of preparations and a light pack. Maybe someday I will visit Mt. Robson again.