Introduction to Backcountry Camping
at Saturday Night Lake
Expand your trip to the Rockies with An Overnight Backcountry Experience
1 Night Fully Catered Guided Backpacking Adventure, $325.00 Per Person (Includes Group Camping Gear, Guiding, Permits, and Food.) See Below For Details.
While travelling through the Canadian Rockies is an unforgettable adventure, it is hard to truly immerse yourself in the landscape without camping in it. A night of backcountry camping, where the sounds of traffic and restaurants are replaced with loons calls and whispering winds is a must-do for a complete Canadian Rockies travel experience. For those short on time, we offer an all-inclusive overnight backcountry camping package at the Saturday Night Lake Campground. Located on the Saturday Night Lake Loop, this serene campground sits above the bank of a pristine mountain lake with views looking up to peaks of the Victoria Cross Range of mountains.
For this adventure we provide: tents, sleeping bags, group camping equipment, and mountain cuisine to make for a straightforward stroll of 7 km from the Jasper Townsite to Saturday Night Lake. Bring your own backpack or have us carry your personal equipment for you.
Your guide will delight you with tales of the Jasper wilderness, and prepare a tasty dinner and breakfast meals. All you need is a pair of boots, personal clothing, and a sense of adventure (see below for details). Jasper National Park is home to one of North America’s largest dark sky preserves so don’t forget about star-gazing after the campfires embers have burned low!
Basemap obtained from NRCAN NTS Series. Copyright: His Majesty the King in Right of Canada.
Expand your trip to the Rockies with An Overnight Backcountry Experience
1 Night Fully Catered Guided Backpacking Adventure, $325.00 Per Person (Includes Group Camping Gear, Guiding, Permits, and Food.) See Below For Details.
While travelling through the Canadian Rockies is an unforgettable adventure, it is hard to truly immerse yourself in the landscape without camping in it. A night of backcountry camping, where the sounds of traffic and restaurants are replaced with loons calls and whispering winds is a must-do for a complete Canadian Rockies travel experience. For those short on time, we offer an all-inclusive overnight backcountry camping package at the Saturday Night Lake Campground. Located on the Saturday Night Lake Loop, this serene campground sits above the bank of a pristine mountain lake with views looking up to peaks of the Victoria Cross Range of mountains.
For this adventure we provide: tents, sleeping bags, group camping equipment, and mountain cuisine to make for a straightforward stroll of 7 km from the Jasper Townsite to Saturday Night Lake. Bring your own backpack or have us carry your personal equipment for you.
Your guide will delight you with tales of the Jasper wilderness, and prepare a tasty dinner and breakfast meals. All you need is a pair of boots, personal clothing, and a sense of adventure (see below for details). Jasper National Park is home to one of North America’s largest dark sky preserves so don’t forget about star-gazing after the campfires embers have burned low!
Basemap obtained from NRCAN NTS Series. Copyright: His Majesty the King in Right of Canada.
Daily Itinerary
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Day 1: Our trip starts in the Jasper Townsite with an early afternoon meeting. Your guide will meet with all guests to discuss safety, and ensure all guests are using appropriate equipment. After the meeting we set off, hiking from the Townsite to the campground. The trail winds upwards onto the Pyramid Bench (the plateau above the Townsite to the north) passing by Cabin Lake and weaving through verdant montane forest. After reaching the campground we will get our tents set up and settle in for an evening of mountain scenery along with a tasty feast. [Distance: 7 km. Elevation Gain/Loss: 400 m/120 m.)
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Day 2: After waking up to a hearty breakfast and snapping pictures of morning glow on Mount Henry and Cairngorm we will gather up our supplies and return to the Jasper Townsite. For those interested in a longer stroll, we can also complete the Saturday Night Lake Loop (adding an additional 8 km and 450 m of total elevation gain, contact us for details if interested in this option). [Distance: 7 km. Elevation Gain/Loss: 120 m/400 m.)
Daily Itinerary
-
![]()
Day 1: Our trip starts in the Jasper Townsite with an early afternoon meeting. Your guide will meet with all guests to discuss safety, and ensure all guests are using appropriate equipment. After the meeting we set off, hiking from the Townsite to the campground. The trail winds upwards onto the Pyramid Bench (the plateau above the Townsite to the north) passing by Cabin Lake and weaving through verdant montane forest. After reaching the campground we will get our tents set up and settle in for an evening of mountain scenery along with a tasty feast. [Distance: 7 km. Elevation Gain/Loss: 400 m/120 m.)
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Day 2: After waking up to a hearty breakfast and snapping pictures of morning glow on Mount Henry and Cairngorm we will gather up our supplies and return to the Jasper Townsite. For those interested in a longer stroll, we can also complete the Saturday Night Lake Loop (adding an additional 8 km and 450 m of total elevation gain, contact us for details if interested in this option). [Distance: 7 km. Elevation Gain/Loss: 120 m/400 m.)
Why Go Backpacking With Us?
A guided backpacking adventure is a great way to start out or keep building your backcountry travel skills. Guests choose guided adventures for many reasons including:
Simplifying logistics (we supply group camping gear, food, and all relevant permits)
Safety (guides are skilled in managing backcountry hazards and certified in advanced wilderness first aid and emergency responses)
Learning about the landscape (gain local knowledge about natural history, wildlife, and plants)
Skill building (learn better backcountry travel, navigation, and self-sufficient wilderness expertise)
Less stressful travel (guides help carry food and equipment, setting up camp, and locating all the best viewpoints)
Why Go Backpacking With Us?
A guided backpacking adventure is a great way to start out or keep building your backcountry travel skills. Guests choose guided adventures for many reasons including:
Simplifying logistics (we supply group camping gear, food, and all relevant permits)
Safety (guides are skilled in managing backcountry hazards and certified in advanced wilderness first aid and emergency responses)
Learning about the landscape (gain local knowledge about natural history, wildlife, and plants)
Skill building (learn better backcountry travel, navigation, and self-sufficient wilderness expertise)
Less stressful travel (guides help carry food and equipment, setting up camp, and locating all the best viewpoints)
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Tranquil Mountain Lakes
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An Authentic Rocky Mountain Experience
General Adventure Info
What is Included?
Guiding
Park Visitor and Camping Fees
Food During the Adventure (breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks)
Group Equipment (tents, sleeping pads, cooking gear, water treatment equipment, bear spray, tarps)
First Aid Equipment (carried by your guide)
What Does a Day on the Trail Look Like?
This trip is a little bit different than our other guided backpacking adventures. The trip starts with an afternoon meeting in the Jasper Townsite. After checking equipment we hike from town to Saturday Night Lake (stopping for pictures wildlife, and wildflowers on the way!). We arrive at the campground in time for dinner and a campfire before settling down for a quiet evening of loon calls and stargazing.
Required Personal Equipment:
Hiking Boots (previously used and well-fitted, waterproof boots are highly recommended)
Day Hiking Backpack (for this adventure we recommend a pack between 20-30 L capacity for whatever personal belongings you would like to bring)
Pillow (a small dry-bag or commercially made backcountry pillow can enhance sleep and boosts overnight recovery)
Camera (there are great viewpoints along the route, and a camera with plenty of memory is highly recommended)
Sun Screen and Lip Balm (we recommend sun screen of 50 or higher SPF rating)
Sunglasses (rated for UV protection)
Personal Medications and Blister Kit (any medications you take along with any personal blister products such as Moleskin)
Insect Repellent Spray
Personal Water Bottle/Bladder (1-2 L capacity is recommended, your guide will treat and carry any additional water as needed
How Should I Prepare?
How much training you need depends on many factors. Wherever you are starting from, it is a good plan to start walking and hiking several months before your adventure and gradually increase pack weight during your training. Walking up stairs with a weighted pack is a great way to get your legs ready.
Are There Any Risks?
Any travel in the mountains comes with some risks. All guests will be required to read, understand, and agree to our Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumptions of Risks and Indemnity Agreement which fully details risks associated with this adventure.
If you have any additional questions, please Contact Us.
Required Personal Clothing:
Waterproof Jacket (well-fitted to allow for movement and breathable)
Waterproof Pants (“rain pants” with full length zippers to allow for easy transitions are recommended)
Insulated Jacket (to be worn around camp on chilly mornings and evenings)
Insulated Pants (“long underwear” or a similar layer to cover legs while at camp or on the move)
Hiking Shirt and Pants (for wearing while travelling, NO COTTON MATERIALS)
Socks (synthetic or wool, bring at least two well-fitted pairs)
Hat (baseball style cap for wearing while travelling)
Insulated Hat (synthetic or wool toque or cap for wearing at camp)
Camp Shoes (lightweight footwear to wear around camp or use during creek crossings)
Insulated Gloves (synthetic or wool, quick drying recommended)
What is Not Included?
Accommodation in the Jasper Townsite
Food while in the Jasper Townsite
Personal Equipment (see list on the right)
Gratuities
General Adventure Info
What is Included?
Guiding
Park Visitor and Camping Fees
Food During the Adventure (breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks)
Group Equipment (tents, sleeping pads, cooking gear, water treatment equipment, bear spray, tarps)
First Aid Equipment (carried by your guide)
What Does a Day on the Trail Look Like?
This trip is a little bit different than our other guided backpacking adventures. The trip starts with an afternoon meeting in the Jasper Townsite. After checking equipment we hike from town to Saturday Night Lake (stopping for pictures wildlife, and wildflowers on the way!). We arrive at the campground in time for dinner and a campfire before settling down for a quiet evening of loon calls and stargazing.
Required Personal Equipment:
Hiking Boots (previously used and well-fitted, waterproof boots are highly recommended)
Day Hiking Backpack (for this adventure we recommend a pack between 20-30 L capacity for whatever personal belongings you would like to bring)
Pillow (a small dry-bag or commercially made backcountry pillow can enhance sleep and boosts overnight recovery)
Camera (there are great viewpoints along the route, and a camera with plenty of memory is highly recommended)
Sun Screen and Lip Balm (we recommend sun screen of 50 or higher SPF rating)
Sunglasses (rated for UV protection)
Personal Medications and Blister Kit (any medications you take along with any personal blister products such as Moleskin)
Insect Repellent Spray
Personal Water Bottle/Bladder (1-2 L capacity is recommended, your guide will treat and carry any additional water as needed
How Should I Prepare?
How much training you need depends on many factors. Wherever you are starting from, it is a good plan to start walking and hiking several months before your adventure and gradually increase pack weight during your training. Walking up stairs with a weighted pack is a great way to get your legs ready.
Are There Any Risks?
Any travel in the mountains comes with some risks. All guests will be required to read, understand, and agree to our Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumptions of Risks and Indemnity Agreement which fully details risks associated with this adventure.
If you have any additional questions, please Contact Us.
Required Personal Clothing:
Waterproof Jacket (well-fitted to allow for movement and breathable)
Waterproof Pants (“rain pants” with full length zippers to allow for easy transitions are recommended)
Insulated Jacket (to be worn around camp on chilly mornings and evenings)
Insulated Pants (“long underwear” or a similar layer to cover legs while at camp or on the move)
Hiking Shirt and Pants (for wearing while travelling, NO COTTON MATERIALS)
Socks (synthetic or wool, bring at least two well-fitted pairs)
Hat (baseball style cap for wearing while travelling)
Insulated Hat (synthetic or wool toque or cap for wearing at camp)
Camp Shoes (lightweight footwear to wear around camp or use during creek crossings)
Insulated Gloves (synthetic or wool, quick drying recommended)
What is Not Included?
Accommodation in the Jasper Townsite
Food while in the Jasper Townsite
Personal Equipment (see list on the right)
Gratuities
Price, Schedules, and Logistics
-
Be sure to read our Payment and Cancellation Policy below before confirming registration.
All prices are listed in Canadian Dollars. Exchange from foreign currencies will be conducted by our PayPal (our Payment Processor).
Starry Summit Mountain Adventures also accepts Bitcoin. If you are interested in paying for your adventure in Bitcoin please specify this on your booking request form below.
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Each adventure has a minimum number of guests for it to run listed on the dates column in the left. Programs are assessed for enrollment 90 days before the departure date. If a given program is below the minimum threshold value enrolled guests will be given the option of paying an under-enrollment offset fee to continue with the adventure otherwise they will receive a full refund. See the link on the left for detailed policies.
-
If you are interested in this adventure, please fill out the form below. Starry Summit Mountain Adventures staff will be in touch and go over trip equipment, costs, and logistics. Full payment is due upon confirmation of trip enrollment.
Cancellation Policy and Refunds: Guests are allowed to cancel their booking and receive a full refund up to 90 days before the start of an adventure. If guests cancel their booking with less than 90 days prior to the start of the adventure refunds diminish in a progressive manner. See the link on the left for details or your trip confirmation details received upon booking.
We strongly recommend guests purchase Travel Insurance to provide coverage in case of trip cancellation, or in the event of a medical emergency during the trip. While we do not endorse any specific insurance providers common companies operating in Canada include (Tugo, Blue Cross, etc.).
-
All guests will be required to sign a “Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumptions of Risks and Indemnity Agreement” commonly referred to as the “waiver” before starting an adventure. Waivers are available for download (ZZZ) and will be provided to you upon confirmation of booking. Paper waivers will also be signed on the first day of each SSMA adventure. If any guest is unwilling to sign the waiver they will not be able to participate in the adventure. Any guests not of the age of majority (18 in Alberta) will require a guardian to sign on their behalf.
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New for the Summer 2025 hiking season we are starting a rewards program for returning clients!
The more distance you have hiked on our guided trips in the previous year, the more rewards you receive this year. If you are a returning client we'll crunch the numbers (distance values are calculated from the values given in the trip itineraries) and let you what discount you can receive.
See this link for details (https://www.starrysummit.ca/rewards).
Adventure Dates (Summer 2025, Minimum 2 Guests, Maximum 6 Guests):
Send Us A Message Below To Inquire About Custom Dates For This Trip.
Payment is processed in Canadian Dollars. We also accept Bitcoin (see tab above for details).
Price, Schedules, and Logistics
-
Be sure to read our Payment and Cancellation Policy below before confirming registration.
All prices are listed in Canadian Dollars. Exchange from foreign currencies will be conducted by our PayPal (our Payment Processor).
Starry Summit Mountain Adventures also accepts Bitcoin. If you are interested in paying for your adventure in Bitcoin please specify this on your booking request form below.
-
Each adventure has a minimum number of guests for it to run listed on the dates column in the left. Programs are assessed for enrollment 90 days before the departure date. If a given program is below the minimum threshold value enrolled guests will be given the option of paying an under-enrollment offset fee to continue with the adventure otherwise they will receive a full refund. See the link on the left for detailed policies.
-
If you are interested in this adventure, please fill out the form below. Starry Summit Mountain Adventures staff will be in touch and go over trip equipment, costs, and logistics. Full payment is due upon confirmation of trip enrollment.
Cancellation Policy and Refunds: Guests are allowed to cancel their booking and receive a full refund up to 90 days before the start of an adventure. If guests cancel their booking with less than 90 days prior to the start of the adventure refunds diminish in a progressive manner. See the link on the left for details or your trip confirmation details received upon booking.
We strongly recommend guests purchase Travel Insurance to provide coverage in case of trip cancellation, or in the event of a medical emergency during the trip. While we do not endorse any specific insurance providers common companies operating in Canada include (Tugo, Blue Cross, etc.).
-
All guests will be required to sign a “Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumptions of Risks and Indemnity Agreement” commonly referred to as the “waiver” before starting an adventure. Waivers are available for download (ZZZ) and will be provided to you upon confirmation of booking. Paper waivers will also be signed on the first day of each SSMA adventure. If any guest is unwilling to sign the waiver they will not be able to participate in the adventure. Any guests not of the age of majority (18 in Alberta) will require a guardian to sign on their behalf.
-
New for the Summer 2025 hiking season we are starting a rewards program for returning clients!
The more distance you have hiked on our guided trips in the previous year, the more rewards you receive this year. If you are a returning client we'll crunch the numbers (distance values are calculated from the values given in the trip itineraries) and let you what discount you can receive.
See this link for details (https://www.starrysummit.ca/rewards).
Adventure Dates (Summer 2025, Minimum 2 Guests, Maximum 6 Guests):
Send Us A Message Below To Inquire About Custom Dates For This Trip.
Payment in Canadian Dollars. We also accept Bitcoin (see tab above for details).
Book Today
Drop us a line commitment-free to see if this adventure is right for you. Please see our Payment and Cancellation Policy, Waiver, and Minimum Enrollment Policy above.
Book Today
Drop us a line commitment-free to see if this adventure is right for you. Please see our Payment and Cancellation Policy, Waiver, and Minimum Enrollment Policy above.