Burstall Pass from Mud Lake

Departure from the Mud Lake car park, at the edge of the track that connects Kananaskis Lakes and Spray Lakes, on the right-hand side of the track when coming from Spray Lakes.

(S/E) From the car park, leave Mud Lake on your right, head south-west on the Burstall Pass Trail and cross French Creek. Ignore the trail on the right that goes around the lake and then a trail on the left that runs alongside French Creek. Head west on a gently sloping, well-maintained gravel trail through the forest.

(1) Continue on the main road heading southwest and ignore the turnoffs on the left. Pass close to Burstall Lakes, located on the right. Descend slightly to reach the right bank of Burstall Creek.

(2) Here, you are not facing a single river but several branches of the river. Cross this relatively wide area as best you can, heading generally south-west and following the marker posts with a silhouette of a hiker topped by a red diamond (see photo). At the start and finish, there are makeshift footbridges (see photo). In between, you will need to wade or jump over the branches of the river.
See the safety advice in the practical information section.

(3) Once you reach the left bank, continue west on a path that immediately climbs steeply through the forest. Further on, the slope becomes gentler.

(4) When you leave the forest, follow the gently sloping path heading south-west. Enter the forest again and continue the more steep climb.

(5) Exit the forest again and turn right onto Burstall Pass Trail (do not continue straight ahead, i.e. south). Make a hairpin turn to the left and climb diagonally, heading southwest.

(6) Take a hairpin turn to the right and follow the north-northwest ridge to easily reach the pass.

(7) Descend via the same route to the Mud Lake car park (S/E).

Hiking boots and equipment (warm clothing, rainwear, sun protection, etc.) are essential. There are no drinking water sources along the route, so bring plenty of water with you.

Essential map: at least the one accompanying this description and, preferably, a Canadian map, purchased locally or from a specialist bookshop elsewhere. A compass is useful.

Safety advice for crossing Burstall Creek:
Crossing the branches of Burstall Creek, between (2) and (3), is a tricky passage that requires a good understanding of the terrain and a good sense of direction. Depending on the water level, crossing some branches may require you to put your feet in the water. It is best to take your shoes off; expect a very cold dip...
Only attempt this crossing in good conditions: in case of poor visibility (fog) or if the water level is too high, give up!

Warning:
The terrain crossed is black bear habitat. If bears are known to be present, access may be completely prohibited or simply restricted: you may be required to walk in groups of at least four people, stay on the paths, etc. Strictly follow the instructions on the bilingual English/French signs that can be found along the route. A whistle (keep it handy) is said to intimidate bears... I haven't had the opportunity to test it...

Hike completed by the author on 13 August 2014.

- Burtsall Lakes, between (1) and (2).
- A guaranteed "nature" atmosphere, especially when crossing Burstall Creek, between (2) and (3), and at the pass (7).
- Panoramic views of the towering peaks overlooking the left bank of Burstall Pass, including Mount Birdwood (3,190 m).
- Panoramic views of the peaks to the south: Mount Sir Douglas (3,406m), Mount Robertson (3,194m), Mount French (3,234m).