Packing List for Berg Lake Trail
The Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park is one of Canada’s most iconic backpacking routes, offering stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, and breathtaking views of Mount Robson—the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
Whether you're planning a 3-4 day trip or an extended stay, having the right gear is crucial for comfort and safety in this alpine environment. Below, we’ll cover:
✔ Trip overview & key highlights
✔ Essential gear for Berg Lake Trail
✔ Pro tips for a successful hike
Berg Lake Trail: Trip Overview
Distance: ~42 km round-trip (out-and-back)
Elevation Gain: ~800m (2,600 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections, but well-maintained)
Best Time to Go: July to September (avoid early season snow & high water crossings)
Permits Required: Yes—reservations fill up fast!
For more information about planning the perfect Berg Lake trip, check out Berg Lake Trail Reopens: Everything You Need to Know for 2025
Key Highlights:
✅ Kinney Lake – A stunning turquoise lake just 7km from the trailhead.
✅ Emperor Falls – One of the most powerful waterfalls in the Rockies.
✅ Berg Lake – The crown jewel, with icebergs floating in summer and views of the Berg Glacier.
✅ Mumm Basin & Snowbird Pass – Optional day hikes with incredible alpine scenery.
Essential Gear for Berg Lake Trail
Since weather in the Rockies can change rapidly—from sunshine to snow in a single day—packing the right gear is non-negotiable. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Shelter & Sleep System
Backpacking Tent: A lightweight, weather-resistant tent like the Nemo Dagger or MSR Hubba Hubba.
Sleeping Bag: Rated for 0°C to -5°C (summer nights can be chilly)—check out Nemo Equipment Disco.
Sleeping Pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir or Nemo Tensor for insulation and comfort.
2. Clothing (Layering is Key!)
Baselayer: Merino wool (Smartwool or Icebreaker) or Patagonia Capilene.
Insulating Layer: Patagonia Nano Puff or fleece jacket.
Rain Shell: Arcteryx Beta or Patagonia Torrentshell.
Hiking Pants: Quick-drying, durable (e.g., Prana Stretch Zion).
Warm Hat & Gloves: Even in summer, mornings can be frosty!
3. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots like Salomon X Ultra or Hoka Trailcode.
Hiking Socks: Darn Tough or Smartwool (bring extra pairs!).
Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals like Tevas or Crocs for camp comfort.
4. Food & Cooking
Backpacking Stove: Jetboil Flash or MSR PocketRocket (canister stoves are easiest).
Bear-Proof Food Storage: BearVault or Ursack (required in Mount Robson Park).
High-Energy Snacks: Nuts, bars, jerky, and dehydrated meals (AlpineAire is a favourite).
Morning coffee with views of Mount Robson, Berg Lake Trail
5. Navigation & Safety
Map & Compass: Even if you have GPS, a topo map is essential.
Garmin inReach Mini 2: Satellite communication for emergencies (no cell service!).
First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight.
Headlamp: Black Diamond Storm (extra batteries!).
6. Miscellaneous Must-Haves
Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ(helps on steep sections).
Water Filter: Katadyn BeFree.
Sun Protection: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Dry Bags: Sea to Summit (keep gear dry at river crossings).
Pro Tips for a Successful Berg Lake Trip
✔ Book early! Permits sell out months in advance.
✔ Pack for all weather—sun, rain, and even snow are possible.
✔ Arrive early on Day 1 to secure a good campsite (popular spots fill fast).
✔ Leave no trace—pack out all waste (including toilet paper).
✔ Consider a rest day to explore side hikes like Snowbird Pass.
The Berg Lake Trail is a bucket-list adventure, and with the right gear, you’ll be prepared for anything the mountains throw at you. Whether you’re marvelling at Emperor Falls or waking up to glacier views at Berg Lake, this hike is worth every step.
Need more gear recommendations? Check out our other guides:
Have you hiked Berg Lake? What was your favourite part? Let us know in the comments!
Interested in the Ultimate Canadian Rockies Roadtrip?
Check out our complete Canadian Rockies Guide and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
