Mark Berger Traverse

The Mark Berger Traverse is a route along the spine of the Pinnacles. It was created in memory of Mark Berger who was a popular leader of the Vernon Outdoors Club. The traverse covers approximately 20km between Twin Lakes and Monashee Lake. There isn't a trail and markings (e.g., cairns) are few along the route. After leaving Twin Lakes or Monashee Lake, the route feels remote. It's unlikely that you'll see other people along it. You may encounter grizzlies and mountain goats in the area.

The Hike

Begin by driving to the trail-head for Monashee Lake. After making your way to Monashee Lake, you can see the south side of Mount Severide (picture below).

From Monashee Lake, you'll want to traverse to the left toward the gap pictured below. The gap sits between Mount Severide and Sunny Peak.

After hiking through the gap, you'll arrive below the northern slopes of Sunny Peak (left side of picture below).

Further down, you'll see Rioux Lake (picture below).

From the Rioux Lake, you'll turn left then scramble up the centre of the picture below. Aim roughly toward the 'v' in the centre of the ridge. After some tree assisted scrambling, you'll arrive at the top of the east ridge of Mount Severide.

From the top, you'll have panoramic views of the North (left side of picture) , Middle (centre of picture) and South Pinnacles (right side - background).

Pinnacle E5 to the left of the North Pinnacle (picture below).

You'll be able to see the east ridge toward the summit of Mount Severide.

Looking to the north from the east ridge of Mount Severide, you can see the route ahead along the ridge to the left side of the picture traversing the peaks toward Twin Lakes. In the far distance, you'll also see mountains in the gold range (e.g., Mount Odin). From here, depending on the time of year, you'll need to scramble down steep snow or loose scree to reach the tarn on the northern side of Mount Severide.

The tarn below the north side of Mount Severide (picture below). There is a beautiful camping spot with a small campfire pit nearby.

On this trip, I chose to stay overnight nearby the tarn. Sunrise the next morning (photo below). Overnight a grizzly bear moved through my campsite without any issues.

From the tarn, you'll need to ascend toward Mount Beehive. For the easiest route, don't immediately climb toward the top of the ridge (e.g., lots of annoying loose rock). Try to traverse from gently climbing from the tarn toward the right leading to Mount Beehive. Mount Beehive should be visible after ascending a bit.

Mount Beehive (picture below). Mount Beehive provides a helpful marker for the ascent from the tarn below Mount Severide to the plateau above.

Continue along the pleasant ridge walk toward the mountains in the distance.

The ridge walking is easy and enjoyable.

After reaching Boulder Mountain, you'll descend to Twin Lakes (picture below). Follow the well-established trail to the parking lot for Twin Lakes.

Final Thoughts

The Mark Berger Traverse can be completed in a single day, overnight or more. While the route traverses across (e.g., Mount Severide, Mount Beehive, Wimpy Peak, Neopolitan Knob, and Boulder Mountain), it also provides access to nearby other mountains (e.g., Pinnacle E5). Whatever you choose to do, it is a unique place with spectacular mountains and beautiful alpine scenery.