Summertime in the Canadian Rockies is always a popular season for hiking, with its blue skies, wildflowers, and warm air. However, fall in the Rocky Mountains offers something entirely different with its crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy post-hike vibes! And don’t forget the larches! One of the most beautiful treks to experience in British Columbia is the Conrad Kain Hut fall hike in Bugaboo Provincial Park. This route is perfect for either a day hike or a lovely overnight stay at the Conrad Kain Hut or Applebee Dome Campground. Let’s dive into why this fall hike should be on your bucket list this year!
Where are the Bugaboos?
The Bugaboos, also known as simply “The Bugs,” are a stunning range of rugged granite peaks in Southeastern British Columbia, Canada, specifically in the Purcell Mountains. They are known for their remote wilderness, incredible views, and scenery, and of course, for their challenging alpine terrain. The Bugaboos are a mecca for mountaineers and rock climbers due to their jagged, challenging peaks and glaciers. The Bugaboos are part of Bugaboo Provincial Park, which protects this beautiful environment. There is access by helicopter for experienced alpinists and small hikes scattered throughout the park for others to enjoy.
How do I get to Bugaboo Provincial Park?
The Bugaboos are a remote range of mountains within the Purcell Mountains, situated far from any major cities. However, the two closest towns to the Provincial Park are Radium Hot Springs and Golden. There are multiple ways to access the Provincial Park; however, it depends on which hike you intend to complete. To reach the Conrad Kain Hut, you will need to reach Highway 95 to access the forest service road leading to the trailhead. If you are coming from Golden, you’ll drive south on Highway 95, and then take Bugaboo Creek Road, resulting in a total driving time of approximately 2 hours (114 km). If you’re departing from Radium Hot Springs, you’ll head north on Highway 95, with a slightly shorter drive of 1.5 hours or 73 km.
Where to stay before hiking Bugaboo Provincial Park
As mentioned, there are two towns within close proximity of Bugaboo Provincial Park and an option to overnight before hitting the trail bright and early. A couple of options to consider if you are looking for a convenient place to stay are:
- Back 40 Outdoor – Near Brisco
- Radius Retreat – Near Radium Hot Springs
Where is the Conrad Kain Hut Trailhead?
The Conrad Kain Hut trailhead is located 1 hour from Brisco or 45 kilometers away. The drive along the forest service road is lengthy, but the road is reasonably well-maintained with minimal bumps. Upon arriving at the trailhead parking lot, it is advisable to take precautions to protect your vehicle, with a particular focus on your tires, from porcupines. These nocturnal creatures have a penchant for chewing on rubber.
Fortunately, there is a generously sized enclosed area fenced with barbed chicken wire provided for your convenience. Utilize this wire to secure your vehicle and employ sticks and stones to create a barrier that prevents any creatures from accessing your tires.
How difficult is the hike to Conrad Kain Hut?
Distance: 9 km
Elevation gain: 991 m
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard
The Kain Hut Trail leading to Applebee campground is a spectacular hiking route that offers breathtaking views of Conrad Glacier, rock spires, and the surrounding mountain valley. The initial kilometer of the trail is relatively flat, but the subsequent 3 kilometers become progressively steeper. However, once you pass the tree line, the views become stunning, and you’ll notice the elevation gain less. There is one segment of the hike that requires you to climb a ladder, which can be challenging while carrying a backpack, so be sure to take your time! Also, keep this in mind if you plan to bring your dog on the trail.
This trail description pertains to the full hike to Applebee’s Campground, which is slightly beyond the Conrad Kain Hut in terms of distance and elevation gain. If the full trek to Applebee’s Camp seems too daunting, you have the option to choose a shorter 4.5-kilometer hike with a 740-meter elevation gain to reach the Conrad Kain Hut, which is equally rewarding. Staying overnight at the hut has the advantage of allowing you to embark on a day hike from the hut to Applebee’s Campground, where you can witness the striking spires that attract many rock climbers.
Overall, the hike to the Conrad Kain Hut is manageable, even with a loaded backpack, and it is unquestionably worthwhile to experience the awe-inspiring Conrad Glacier and the surrounding natural beauty. The hut and glacier are named in honor of Conrad Kain, an Austrian-Canadian mountaineer who explored the Bugaboos and other regions of the Canadian Rockies.
Check out more hikes in the area here!
What to pack for the Conrad Kain hut
Fortunately, the Conrad Kain Hut is stocked with many essential items, which will lighten your backpack load! There are plenty of cups, plates, bowls, utensils, pots, pans, and cooking utensils to use while enjoying your stay in the cabin. Additionally, there are sleeping mats provided, so you only need to bring a sleeping bag. They even have games and books available for communal use. Lastly, there is running water that you can boil for clean drinking water. If you plan to stay overnight in the hut, make sure to take advantage of the beautiful scenery and wake up early enough to witness the sun rising in the distance, casting its golden beams on the Conrad Glacier!
Conrad Kain Hut Booking
If you’re interested in staying overnight in the Conrad Kain hut, take a look at the steps below to make a reservation:
- Visit the Alpine Club of Canada (ACC) website at https://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/web/.
- Click on the “Huts” tab in the main menu and select “Bugaboos” from the drop-down menu.
- Scroll down to the Conrad Kain Hut section and click on “Book Now”.
- Choose your preferred dates and the number of people in your group.
- Select your preferred sleeping arrangements (private room, communal sleeping area, or camping).
- Follow the prompts to complete your reservation and payment ($25 per person/night).
Alternatively, you can contact the Alpine Club of Canada directly by phone or email to make a reservation. Their contact information is 403-678-3200 ext. 0 between 8:30am to 8:30pm seven days a week. Conrad Kain Hut is a popular destination and availability can be limited so it’s recommended you book ahead.
Applebee Dome campground is a first-come, first-serve basis. However, you’ll be required to obtain a permit which you can do on the BC parks reservation site. It’s $10/night for an adult to camp here.
Adios, Chicos!
As always, thanks for stopping by and checking out Venture-Vida! We hope you get a chance to experience the Conrad Kain hut in the summer with the wildflowers or the fall with the larches! Let us know in the comments what your favorite time of year to do this hike is! Lastly, don’t forget to subscribe for more adventure content!
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