JUNE-2003        4900'+/-        9613'        8hrs+/-    Easy-Solo

The approach to Bourgeau is a long, but easy one.  Lake Bourgeau trailhead is marked on Transcanada.  I have skied to the Lake in the early spring.  One of the most active avalanche areas you can find.  In the summer, this is just a great long hike.  Don't rest at the lake, instead proceed on to the tarns above it and take in the better views (one of these small lakes was still frozen).  One of the best views of Mt Assiniboine, hands down.  Once you take a large U turn at the tarns and gain the summit approach, Assiniboine is in clear view the whole way.  I am sure a much shorter route could be negotiated from the Sunshine ski resort, but there is no official trail on the south side.

I did 2600' from the lake to the summit in 1 hour and 15 minutes.  This is a busy mountain.  I passed 5 climbers to be the first to the summit this day (one from Switzerland).  It might be a good idea to set up a soda stand.  Good views of Pilot and Ball as well.  Hoary Marmot sighting as usual, but real treat was a pair of Pine Grosbeaks (overgrown red colored finch) at 6000'.

The only crux is to stay out of harms way in the winter and spring.  Lake Bourgeau.

Assiniboine from U Junction                                Summit                                                Bourgeau from Cory                               Wildlife at Lake