[MCR] Backcountry Conditions Jasper Park Watchtower Basin area.

[Public Mountain Conditions Report]

 From June 25-27th a group of  Assistant Hiking Guide candidates from 
Thompson Rivers University travelled through the Watchtower Basin and 
an adjoining valley during a backpacking trip.

Here are some observations from our high energy group:

The Watchtower Basin Trailhead no longer has a bridge crossing the to 
the main trail and though the water level is low, it should be noted 
for groups planning to access the area . Presently it is easily 
crossed on dry rocks.

Much of the snow has melted in the alpine with below average water 
levels in all of the creeks. There are a few patches of snow in 
isolated areas in the alpine, but certainly much less than was expected.

The creek crossing to the Watchtower campground is low and easily 
crossed. Sandals or light shoes are recommended. The mosquitoes were 
reported to be "nasty" at the Watchtower campground.

Groups completed a traverse over a small sub summit NE of Watchtower 
peak (rounded sub peak centre of photo) , descending  to a small 
valley W of Watchtower Basin. A few small peaks and ridges were 
ascended  in the area, all being simple walk ups.

There were many older grizzly bear diggings along with some isolated 
newer activity in the valley west of Watchtower.
Some fresh grizzly tracks were seen in Watchtower Basin, though there 
were no actual sightings.

The flowers are in full bloom in the alpine, earlier than normal for 
the region.
The bushwhacking in or out of the west valley is certainly enduring, 
but worth the effort.

This is a spectacular and remote area to explore!

Peter Amann
Helen Sovdat
Matt Reynolds
(Mountain Guides)






Peter Amann
pamann.incentre.net
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