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Porcupine Campground to Lake Magog

A challenging start to the day that eventually leads you to the base of the magnificent Mt Assiniboine.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
15 km
Ascent
620 m
Descent
222 m
Duration
4-5 hrs
Low Point
1.8 km
High Point
2.2 km
Gradient
10˚
Porcupine Campground to Lake Magog Map

Day 2 on trail starts with a slow climb out from Porcupine campground, but finishes at the picturesque Lake Magog.

Description

There are a few steep sections on the trail, but it's mostly a steady incline up to a trail junction, which is where the shortcut rejoins the main trail for those who don't camp at Porcupine.

After the trail junction, the trail is much more mellow and you will soon find yourself getting close to Og Lake. The final pass just before the lake offers a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Og Lake.

Og is a beautiful Alpine Lake with great views of Mt Assiniboine in the distance. You can camp here but you need to book in advance through BC Parks.

There are minimal water sources after Og Lake until you get close to Mt Assiniboine, which is still over 6km away, so make sure you take the opportunity to refill water bottles at Og Lake.

The final approach to Lake Magog travels through some wide-open meadows that offer fantastic views as you get closer to Mt Assiniboine.

Unfortunately, these meadows are also the perfect breeding ground for a wide range of insects, including mosquitos. I'd strongly recommend packing a bug net on this trip, you will be very glad you have it when you get here and it will make your trip much more enjoyable.

As you arrive in the main area of Mt Assiniboine, you suddenly find yourself back in civilisation. The trails here are very well maintained and it's only a short hike to the campground.

Magog Campground is huge by backcountry standards. It's also a bit of a maze to find all the tent pads. This campground requires advance booking and it sells out quickly, so plan ahead to get a reservation here.

This is an unbelievably beautiful location that will leave you lost for words as you admire the outstanding beauty of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

The campground is a popular location for wildlife - Grizzly Bears are common here - but I can guarantee you will be more concerned by the thousands of mosquitos. A bug net is essential if you want an enjoyable time!

What you really need to watch out for though, is the Marmots. There's lots of them here and they really like anything made of cork, such as your nice new trekking poles. Don't leave anything made of cork in your tent, hang it in a tree or place it in a food locker.

Ideally you want to spend a few days here, as it's a great place to set up basecamp and explore all the other trails in the area.

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between June and October

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Guidebooks in this area