Brazeau Lake Trail

Start at the Nigel Creek trailhead and travel counter-clockwise over Nigel Pass to Four Point Campground. From Four Point, the loop continues along the Brazeau River to Brazeau Lake, crosses Poboktan Pass to Jonas Cutoff, and returns over Jonas Shoulder and Jonas Pass to Four Point before retracing the Nigel Pass approach. Expect forested singletrack, open alpine meadows, river valleys and sweeping pass-top views, with the loop’s high point near Jonas Shoulder at about 2,470 m. It is strenuous: the distance, high passes, river crossings and remote setting demand backcountry experience.

Brazeau Lake is a glacier-fed alpine lake framed by rugged peaks. The route moves through glacial valleys, moraines and layered Rockies geology, with long stretches of quiet wilderness. River fords may be necessary even where bridges serve some sections. Carry a map and GPS, and be prepared for rapid weather changes and lingering snow on the passes.

This is a serious, remote and beautiful 81 km backpacking loop for experienced hikers who want big-mountain days, a turquoise lake and a genuine wilderness feel. Dogs are not permitted on the specified Poboktan Creek and Jonas Shoulder sections, so this route should be planned as pet-free.