Ever thought about going on vacation but didn't know where you wanted to go? Ever planned a trip to a destination and then forgot to do the research? Well here is five hikes in the Canadian Rocky Mountains that will not only take your breath away but making you want to come back for more.
#1 - Mt. Assiniboine Provincial Park
This hike isn't for someone looking to get out on a quick day trip. I spent a solid 5 days in the backcountry on this one. We endured a couple thunderstorms, perhaps the coldest night of my life and 105km's in total but I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.
The hike has two main starting points, Sunshine Village and the trailhead at Mt. Shark. The first is located 14km's west of the town of Banff, while the latter is along the Smith-Dorrien back road out in Kananaskis.
If you'd like to see an in-depth read about the hike, you can follow the link below to my Mt. Assiniboine Blog: "Mt. Assiniboine - Five Day Hike"
#2 - Rockbound Lake
When you're driving along the Trans Canada highway from Banff to Lake Louise, you may notice this majestic looking mountain on your right side at some point. It is known as Castle Mountain but it's not just the mountain that makes this hike one of my personal favourites, it's also the lake that is on the other side.
Rockbound Lake is a pretty serious day hike however it is doable. The hike to Rockbound Lake is approximately 24km round-trip but if you're looking to do the summit hike, I'd add on another 8km therefore making it roughly a 10-12 hour day hike.
If you'd like to view the vlog I put together documenting this adventure, you can follow the link below:
#3 - Yamnuska (Mount Laurie)
What separates Mount Yamnuska from the other hikes is that it's a fun traverse best taken from the east to west route. Yamnuska is also one of the very first mountains you will pass if coming into the Rocky Mountains from Calgary. It's stegosaurus looking ridge is hardly be missed and gives off the impression to many passerby's that it's a difficult hike.
However, I found Yamnuska to be the perfect balance of variety in terms of terrain and scenic vistas. On this 5-hour traverse you'll venture through the forest, then use your hands to squirm your way up a small canyon before a bit of scrambling and eventual chain crossing section.
If you'd like to view the vlog I put together documenting this adventure, you can follow the link below:
#4 - Mt. Temple
Mt. Temple is for those who want a challenge with unimaginable views. At 3,544 metres above sea level, this is considered the easiest mountain above 11,000ft (3,352m) to climb without the need of ropes or harness.
The trailhead for this 16km hike up 1,660 metres of elevation is located at Moraine Lake, roughly 12km from Lake Louise just off the trans Canada highway. You'll want to get started on this one nice and early in order to make the most out of the daylight, but also to beat the intense summer heat while ascending.
If you'd like to view the vlog I put together documenting this adventure, you can follow the link below:
#5 - Ribbon Lake
Of all the hikes I have mentioned, Ribbon Lake would be the least demanding but still a solid 13km's one way with an elevation gain of nearly 600 metres.
The trailhead can be found near Kananaskis Village in Kananaskis Country and the trail works its way along the riverside up to Ribbon Falls where many will turn back. The best part is yet to come however on the final two kilometres of trail to Ribbon Lake where you'll be subjected to using chains in order to get up a small cliff face and rewarded with remarkable views of the whole valley.
If you'd like to view the vlog I put together documenting this adventure, you can follow the link below:
If you've enjoyed reading up on what I consider my five favourite hikes in the Canadian Rockies, be sure to check back often for even more blogs!