Backpack - Tonquin Valley

9am Astoria River trailhead (return to same)

Photographers preferred as participants.  

Leader's permission required prior to registration.  Email leader by Aug7 with request for permission including backpacking qualifications and 3-7+ day Mountaineers backpacks completed during past 3 years, any special photo or naturalist interests for this trip. 

No trip space or backcountry camp sites will be available after Aug 8 registration close.

 Leader will add 1-2 spaces (tent sharing likely), depending on availability and interest. 

Tonquin Valley backcountry guide (Jasper NP):  http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/ap-bc/sugg-sentiers_trip-ideas/Tonquin.aspx

Photography in the Tonquin Valley: http://www.canadiannaturephotographer.com/tonquinvalley.html 

Early  morning light's golden magic on  Ramparts, Tonquin Valley  -- http://www.lattaphoto.com/Portfolios/4x5/the_ramparts.htm

 The Tonquin Valley is featured in Classic Hikes of North America: 23 Breathtaking Trails in the United States and Canada (Peter Potterfield)

Trail pace leisurely to moderate, with plenty time for photo opportunities near camp & along trail.   This backpack is not appropriate for those desiring a fast backpack.

Be aware of drive time from Seattle to Jasper, approx 11-12 hours via Sumas to Hope, BC, Hwy 5 to Kamloops & Valemount, BC, Hwy 16 Valemount to Jasper, Alberta.   Current passport or  WA enhanced drivers license (or WA enhanced ID) required for customs/border crossings.

Gear sharing recommended.   3 tent sites reserved, assuming at least 1 shared tent.  Camps reserved:  night 1 Astoria, nights 2-3 Surprise Pt, nights 4-5 Amethyst, night 6 Clitheroe.  Detailed itinerary to follow including partial to full-day photo-oriented hikes from Surprise Pt, Amethyst & Clitheroe camps.

Cancellation fees $25 if at least 10 days' notice; up to $75 fee forfeited if less than 10 days' notice.

Participants responsible for Parks Canada entrance pass fees (annual or daily), and arranging own pre/post-backpack accoms (front-country camp reservations available). 

Leader very familiar with Tonquin Valley, with multiple backpacks in area.