Read’s Tower – Kananaskis Country – Hiking Alberta

Seija meets me at the Petro Canada Station near the junction of the Trans Canada Highway and Hwy 22 west of Calgary for the drive west through Canmore, Alberta, then the drive south on the Smith-Dorrien Trail (Hwy 742).  Our objective for this day is a hike to Read’s Tower on the trail from Sparrowhawk Day Use Area about halfway along the Spray Lakes Reservoir south of Goat Pond.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

A view of Read’s Tower from the west end of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The good quality, moderate grade trail across the road from parking at the Sparrowhawk Day Use Area leads through forest to a junction cairn.  We take the left branch which offers a slightly longer and gentler ascent than the brutally steep climb straight ahead.  There are many branching game trails along either steep route.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The cairn at the trail junction for two routes to the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada. Left is ‘easier’. Both are rugged.

As we gain altitude aggressively on the 2.0 KM (1-1/4 mile) one-way trail, which gains a gut-crunching 646 m (2,120 ft.) to the top of the ridge, spectacular panoramic views unfold of surrounding mountains and their reflection in the smooth surface of Spray Lakes Reservoir.  The reservoir is very low in preparation for the impending influx of water from massive snow fields at higher elevations.  Colorful rock shoreline frames mirror images across the surface of still water.  Beneath the reflections, the lake’s surface is largely clear of ice and low morning sun, radiating over mountains, creates a wide range of color in the water from emerald to deep blue.  It is very peaceful.  A light, cool breeze counters the body warming effect of climbing to higher and cooler elevations in the warming sun.  The panoramic vistas become progressively more sensational.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Seija surveys the Spray lakes Reservoir in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Looking south along mountain-surrounded Spray Lakes Reservoir in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lakes Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

2,975 m Mount Nestor and 3,109 m Old Goat Mountain across the Spray Lakes Reservoir from Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The view north to Goat Pond along the Spray Lakes Reservoir in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Trail conditions deteriorate progressively as we aggressively gain elevation.  As we work our way up the steep, rugged trail it is necessary to exercise caution.  Hiking poles provide invaluable assistance.  Rugged trail transcends to more treacherous trail on pebbles over smooth and slippery rock slab.  The short hike seems longer than it is.  Early season leg muscles are complaining.  A deteriorating snow cornice, to our left, provides excellent views of avalanche damage in the valley below which separates Read’s Ridge from 3,121 m (10,240 ft.) Mount Sparrowhawk.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Seija checks out the safe edge of a snow cornice as we gain elevation on Read’s Ridge with a view north to Goat Pond along the Spray Lakes Reservoir in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Cornice degradation reveals avalanche aftermath in the valley between Read’s Ridge and Mount Sparrowhawk in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Cloud builds over Spray Lake Reservoir looking north to Goat Pond in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

A view to Red Ridge just south of Read’s Ridge from the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Mercifully, we arrive at the top of the west end of Read’s Ridge where sitting down to rest, and to enjoy the fantastic views, makes sense.  It is an incredibly beautiful place.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The view south to mountains surrounding the Spray Lakes Reservoir from the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Red Ridge and Mount Buller from the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Looking south along Spray Lakes Reservoir from the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Mount Nestor and Old Goat Mountain from the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

There is more snow than expected but we find a dignified route through more shallow snow, without post holing excessively.  On the far side of a small patch of snow bound forest we have a clear path to the summit of Read’s Ridge, at 2,353 m (7,720 ft.) for an up close and personal view of Read’s Tower.  We hike for a fairly short distance beside the giant snow cornice, mainly on trail, until we arrive at the summit cairn.  The notch separating the base of Read’s Tower from Mount Sparrowhawk is filled with deep snow and there is ample evidence of recent Spring avalanche activity.  The dip off the east end of Read’s Tower is clear and we can easily gain access to the trail which will deliver us over the flat top of Read’s Tower to its top.  Compromised legs and anticipation of the potentially tricky descent on rugged trail convince us to abandon the attempt to achieve the summit of Read’s Tower on this day.  Current snow cover will compromise the phenomenal views available later in summer.  The effort to achieve the summit of Read’s Tower consumes an additional 0.8 KM (0.5 mile) and 274 m (899 ft.) of elevation for a total round trip distance of about 6 KM (3- 3/4 miles) with a formidable elevation gain of 92o m (3,018 ft.) within a fairly short distance.  Not for the weak of spirit.  Best done later in the season.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Looking back on a snow cornice on the continuation to the summit of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Photo looking back from Peak One on the route to the summit of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Higher altitude view from Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

An excellent view of cornices from the west end of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Many photos of the stunning panorama are captured at the summit and I take a brief video to provide a sense of the overall surroundings and how they fit together.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The view of Read’s Tower from the summit cairn on Read’s Ridge with Mount Sparrowhawk past the notch behind in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

A long lens view of Mount Sparrowhawk in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

A view towards the snow-filled notch between Read’s Tower and Mount Sparrowhawk in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Red Ridge and Mount Buller from the summit of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The descent from the Read’s Ridge summit to the east end of Read’s Ridge is swift and easy.  Cloud is forming up.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

A view north on the descent of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

A view south on the descent of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Spectacular view of Mount Nestor and Old Goat Mountain on the descent from the summit of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Final view south from the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Cloud builds on the descent from the top of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The snow cornice snakes its way along the north edge of Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The hike down the ridge is cautious and time consuming to avoid injury.

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

Treacherous trail conditions – pebbles over smooth rock slab makes navigation risky on the steep descent off Read’s Ridge

Read's Tower, Spray Lake Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

A final view of spectacular scenery before descent into forest on Read’s Ridge in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada

The views on the hike down are no less amazing than they were on the ascent.  Descent progress is swift after we reach good trail through forest at the trail junction cairn.

Seija chooses to drive south on the Smith-Dorrien Trail for new views and the scenic drive north on Kananaskis Trail.  Prophetically, this is an excellent choice because, unknown to us, the north Smith-Dorrien Trail has been closed by a significant rock slide from the East End of Mount Rundle which has closed Canmore Hill.  There is a curious barricade on south Smith Dorrien, for reasons unknown to us, at the junction with Mount Shark Road.  We do not find out until after returning to Calgary why there is no northbound traffic on Smith-Dorrien while southbound traffic seems unusually high.  We stop for refreshing Arizona Tea at the busy convenience store along Kananaskis Trail.

The drive to Calgary is tedious in heavy traffic returning from the May long weekend ritual migration from city to mountains but nothing can reduce the impact of images from the summit of Read’s Ridge on this spectacular Spring day.

Posted in Kananaskis Country | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

10 Great Hikes in Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Glacier National Park in Montana, USA is an integral component and the largest part of the world’s first International Peace Park with Waterton Lakes National Park representing a smaller, but no less spectacular part in southwest Alberta, Canada.   It is where prairies meet mountains.  Both connected parks host breathtaking scenery.  Click on the titles for a link to the specific journal post.

Cracker Lake

The hike from Many Glacier Hotel to Cracker Lake is a return distance of 13 miles (21 KM) with about 1,600 ft. (488 m) of gross elevation to Cracker Lake and the long-abandoned Cracker Lake MineCracker Lake is hidden until reaching the final ridge.  The vibrant color of the lake will stop you in your tracks.  The long access is definitely worth the breathtaking impact of the moment.  Siyeh Wall, with the much diminished Siyeh Glacier hanging below the summit, serves as dramatic background to Cracker Lake.  There are lots of places to explore at the far end of Cracker Lake.

Cracker Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Cracker Flats on the hiking trail to Cracker Lake in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Cracker Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Amazing view of the Siyeh Wall just prior to the first breathtaking view of Cracker Lake in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Cracker Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Cracker Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Cracker Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Cracker Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Cracker Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

A sunbeam on Cracker Lake in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Glacier

The Grinnell Glacier hike is a round trip hike of 11.9 miles (19 KM) and 1,585 ft. (483 m) of net elevation.  Rolling land and additional effort will place gross elevation near 2,100 ft. (640 m).  Vistas are continuous and spectacular within the valley along the lower reaches of Grinnell Point and Mount Grinnell.  Near trail’s end, there is a steep climb over an ancient lateral moraine to arrive at the outlook.  This is a must-do hike in the Many Glacier region of Glacier National Park.

Grinnell Glacier, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Glacier in the distance above Lower Grinnell Lake in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Glacier, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Lower Grinnell Lake on the hiking trail to Grinnell Glacier in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Glacier, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Foreground bear grass looking back along the string of lakes in Grinnell Valley on the hike to Grinnell Glacier in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Glacier, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Glaciers above Grinnell Falls in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Avalanche Lake

Near the far end of Trail of the Cedars, the trail to Avalanche Lake trail branches off to the right.  It is a touristy, well-travelled, wide trail of 5 miles (8 KM) round trip over rolling land with easy, estimated gross elevation of 1,000 ft. (304 M).  The trail travels south-east along Avalanche Creek through incredible, mature forest past huge, glacier-deposited boulders and moss draperies.

Avalanche Lake, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

One view of lumber debris at Avalanche Lake in Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Avalanche Lake, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Avalanche Lake in Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Ptarmigan Tunnel

The moderate day hike from Swiftcurrent Inn to Ptarmigan Tunnel is a round trip distance of 10 miles (16 KM) with an elevation gain of 2,480 ft. (756 m) to a maximum elevation of  7,200 ft. (2,195 m).  The views from Ptarmigan Wall are breathtaking from the switchbacks above Ptarmigan Lake.  The 250 ft. Ptarmigan Tunnel was blasted through the north-east end of the wall, just below the ridge summit to provide horse traffic access from Many Glacier to Elizabeth Lake and the Belly River Valley.  The trail continues several miles through to, and beyond, the Canadian border.

Ptarmigan_Tunnel, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

The view back to Ptarmigan Lake on the hike to Ptarmigan Tunnel, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Ptarmigan_Tunnel, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

The view of Elizabeth Lake and the Belly River Valley from the far side of Ptarmigan Tunnel in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Iceberg Lake

The round trip hike to Iceberg Lake is 9.5 miles (15.2 KM) with gross elevation of about 1,250 ft. (381 m).  The hike progresses alternatively through forested areas and open spaces offering spectacular vistas.  The first view of Iceberg Lake is spectacular.  Glacial flour makes the color of the water milky-blue.  Iceberg Lake, at 6,100 ft. (1,860 m), is tucked away in a north-east facing cirque and receives little sunlight throughout the year.  It remains frozen over until late spring and early in the season the lake is often banked with snow and congested with floating ice including icebergs from calving glaciers.

Iceberg Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

The view to Ptarmigan Wall on the approach to Iceberg Lake in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Iceberg Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Iceberg Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Iceberg Lake, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Unnamed emerald tarn on the retreat from Iceberg Lake in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Valley

The hike from Many Glacier Hotel passes the south shore of Swiftcurrent Lake, tiny Stump Lake and Lake Josephine.  Scenery is stunning and terrain is lush and varied with the final push to Grinnell Falls on raised platform over running water.  The constant proximity to water is embellished by views of mountains around and glaciers above at the end of Grinnell Valley.  The reward is relaxing emerald water and a waterfall at the end of Lower Grinnell Lake.  There are many trail options.

Grinnell Valley, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

The early morning view across Swiftcurrent Lake on the hike through Grinnell Valley in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Valley, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Grinnell Falls across Lower Grinnell Lake at the end of Grinnell Valley Grinnell Valley in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Morning Eagle Falls

Morning Eagle Falls (aka Feather Plume Falls) can be accessed from Grinnell Valley or more directly on the Piegan Pass Trail.  The worthy hiking goals include creeks of crystal water flowing over brightly colored stone, lush forest surrounded by towering mountains and a magnificent waterfall with trail options to continue over the Continental Divide.  Heavy horse traffic can compromise the trail condition in wet weather.

Morning Eagle Falls, Many Glacier, Glacier national Park, Montana, USA

The approach to Morning Eagle Falls, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Morning Eagle Falls, Many Glacier, Glacier national Park, Montana, USA

Morning Eagle Falls, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Swiftcurrent Pass

The round trip hike to the end of  Swiftcurrent Valley is 7 miles (11.2 KM) with elevation of 275 ft. (84 m). Extending the hike to Swiftcurrent Pass changes the profile to 13.4 miles (21.6 KM) and 2,200 ft. (670 m) of elevation.  The scenery is beautiful with long vistas over fascinating terrain, particularly as elevation is gained.  There are a wide variety of features along this trail.  It is a must do hike, and a truly memorable experience beginning at Swiftcurrent Inn in the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park.

Swiftcurrent Pass, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Redrock Falls, Swiftcurrent Pass, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Swiftcurrent Pass, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

The view back to Swiftcurrent Lake along the hiking trail to Swiftcurrent Pass in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Swiftcurrent Pass, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Swiftcurrent Glacier on the hike to Swiftcurrent Pass in, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Swiftcurrent Pass, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

A beautiful but hidden cascading waterfall on the hike to Swiftcurrent Pass in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Swiftcurrent Pass, Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Moose at the shoreline of Fishercap Lake on the hike to Swiftcurrent Pass in Many Glacier, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Highline Trail – Garden Wall

The Highline Trail originates at 6,646 ft. (2,025 m) Logan Pass on Going-to-the-Sun Road.  The trail tracks the steep wall just below the summits of the Continental Divide.  The Garden Wall is lush.  The western side of the Continental Divide receives far more precipitation and plants are abundant on the steep walls above and below the trail.  Waterfalls occur often and traverse the trail.  The wow factor is high.  Wildlife is abundant.  This is an easy hike and one of the most popular in Glacier National Park.

Highline_Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

View along the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

A furry friend near Haystack Butte on the hike along the Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Scenic Point

The moderately strenuous hike to Scenic Point begins near Two Medicine Lake and is 7.2 miles (11.6 KM) return with a net elevation gain of 2,242 ft. (701 m).  The good trail switchbacks up the flank of Mount Henry with increasingly spectacular views of Appistoki Mountain and Valley as well as Rising Wolf Mountain and Two Medicine Lakes.  From Scenic Point, on a clear day, the view extends over 100 miles (160 KM) to the Sweetgrass Hills.

Scenic Point, Two Medicine, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

A view of Appistoki Valley from Mount Henry on the hike to Scenic Point in Two Medicine, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Scenic Point, Two Medicine, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

A view to Rising Wolf Mountain looming over Lower Two Medicine Lake on the hike to Scenic Point in Two Medicine, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Scenic Point, Two Medicine, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

A view from Scenic Point in Two Medicine, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

A Falcon Guide titled, ‘Hiking Glacier and Waterton National Park’ by Erik Molvar is an excellent reference for Glacier National Park in Montana.

For any trail you choose to hike, please, carry a map, consult and carry a good hiking guide, and obtain current trail conditions and forecasted weather from the Visitor Centre.  Tell someone where you are going and how long you expect to be there.  On completion, let them know you have completed your day hike to avoid potentially expensive search parties leaving to look for you.

Stay safe.  Carry layers and pack everything  you may need to enjoy a great day.

Adventuring is a means to express one’s inner self.  Anonymous

From Summit Stones and Adventure Musings by DSD

 

Posted in Best Hikes, Glacier National Park - Montana, Montana | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments

10 Great Hikes in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta

Located in the south-west corner of Alberta, Canada, Waterton Lakes National Park is an integral and unique part of the world’s first International Peace ParkGlacier National Park in Montana, USA makes up the larger component of this wilderness paradise where prairies meet mountains.

10 Great Hikes in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Crypt Lake

03_Crypt_Lake

The hike to Crypt Lake hike is 8.7 KM (5.4 miles) one way with an elevation gain of 695 metres (2,300 ft.) to a maximum elevation of 1,981 metres (6,500 ft.).  This incredible hike is one of the most popular in Waterton Lakes National Park and arguably the most famous in the Triple Crown.  The day begins with a reserved boat shuttle from the Waterton Village Marina to the trailhead at Crypt Landing on the far shore of Upper Waterton Lake.  Good weather and a plan are important.  It will be an indelibly memorable lifetime achievement and experience.

Crypt Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Burnt Rock Fall on the hike to Crypt Lake in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Crypt Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Crypt Falls and Mount Boswell on the approach to Crypt Lake in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Crypt Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Crypt Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Bear’s Hump

This short, moderately strenuous hike to the overlook at the top of Bear’s Hump is a round trip of 2.8 KM (1.8 miles) and an elevation gain of 225 m (738 ft.) to a maximum elevation of 1,525 m (5,000 ft.).  The hike is a sustained, fairly steep climb on predominantly rocky trail supplemented by short switchbacks and large, wooden beam steps.  Views are spectacular and summer crowds can be avoided with an early morning start to enjoy the rising sun.

Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

View over Waterton Village from Bear’s Hump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

View over Emerald Bay to Middle Waterton Lake at sunrise from Bear’s Hump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

 Lower Bertha Falls

The trail to Lower Bertha Falls is a round trip of 5.2 KM (3.2 miles) with a consistent elevation gain of 175 m (574 ft.) on good trail.  For those who choose to continue the hike on this trail to Bertha Lake, it is a substantially more aggressive adventure with an excellent reward/effort ratio.  From the trailhead, the hike to Bertha Lake consumes a round trip time of about 5 hours with return distance of 10.4 KM (6.5 miles) and an elevation gain of 460 m (1,509 ft.).  After the wooden bridge, the trail steepens to moderately strenuous.  Good trail over switchbacks eases the more aggressive elevation gains.  Upper Bertha Falls is along the route and Bertha Lake is surrounded by Bertha Peak, Mount Alderson and Mount Richards.  Bertha Lake is an excellent place to fish for rainbow trout and there are campgrounds at each end of the lake.

Lower Bertha Falls, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lower Bertha Falls, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Forum Lake

This easy day hike is listed in the My Waterton Visitors Guide as 8.8 KMs (5.5 miles) round trip with net elevation gain of 350 m (1,148 ft.) and an estimated elapsed time of 3 hours.  The hike can be extended to include the Akamina Ridge Loop which is another of the Waterton Lakes National Park Triple Crown.  There is a signed trail, a very short distance on the right, from the Forum Lake shoreline to, and along, the top of Akamina Ridge.  Not for the faint of heart, this alternative full day, hike/scramble, high above, and over to, Wall Lake offers a substantially more aggressive and spectacular hiking experience.

Forum Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Forum Falls on the hike to Forum Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Forum Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Forum Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Wall Lake

 The popular Wall Lake hike is listed, in My Waterton Visitor’s Guide, as a 10.4 KM (6.5 miles) round trip hike with 110 m (361 ft.) of net elevation and an estimated elapsed time of 3.5 hrs.  The hike to Wall Lake is magnificent on excellent trail with a variety of spectacular features and vistas.  I estimate gross elevation is double the published net elevation but this hike is within reach of a broad range of hikers and, in my opinion, well worthy of the time.

Wall Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Wall Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Wall Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Wall Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Carthew Alderson Trail

The Carthew-Alderson Trail is one of Waterton Lakes National Park’s Triple Crown.  This world-class hike is listed in the ‘My Waterton National Park Visitor Guide as an 8 hour, 20.1 KM (12.5 mile) one way trek with altitude gain of 650 m (2,132 ft.).  There are large and fascinating features along this spectacular trail.  Not all local residents agree on the three hikes which make up the Waterton Lakes National Park Triple Crown.  At least one, very knowledgeable and influential, resident of Waterton Village suggests Lineham Ridge is a more than worthy candidate.

Carthew Alderson Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Carthew Alderson Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Carthew Alderson Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Carthew Alderson Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Carthew Alderson Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Alderson Lake from the Carthew Alderson Trail, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lower Rowe Lake

The hike to Lower Rowe Lake is 4 KM (2.5 miles) one way with a gradual and consistent elevation gain of 350 m (1,148 ft.) in the first half of the hike.  The Rowe Lakes Trail is interesting, with a wide range of hiking experience on easy trail, through a broad range of forest offering frequent openings to outstanding views of the valley between Mount Lineham and Mount Rowe.  Arrival at Lower Rowe Lake is breathtaking.  The still surface repeats the stunningly beautiful surroundings.  The superb view is captivating.  It would be easy to spend the entire day here exploring the circumference of the lake, surrounding rock and forest terrain.

Lower Rowe Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lower Rowe Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lower Rowe Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

View across Lower Rowe Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lineham Ridge

The hike to Lineham Ridge is a continuation from Lower Rowe Lake.  First is the short 200 m (219 yard) return to the Rowe Lakes Trail, then a left turn and a short 1.3 KM (0.81 mile) very beautiful hike through lush forest over Rowe Creek water crossings.  Rowe Meadow is an easily achievable and worthy destination on its own.  If you choose to continue to the top of Lineham Ridge, you will be tackling a return hike from the Akamina Parkway of about 17.6 KM (11 miles) and elevation gain in the range of 850 m (2,780 ft.).  It is more than worth the effort.   You have the option to go as far as you choose.  When you have had all the fun you can stand, you can always turn around and go home.  Every section of this hike is mesmerizing.  Every turn begs to be investigated.

Lineham Ridge, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lineham Lakes from Lineham Ridge, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lineham Ridge, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Bighorn Sheep on the hike to Lineham Ridge, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lineham Ridge, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Spectacular flora and fauna on the hike to Lineham Ridge, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Cameron Lake

Cameron Lake at the end of Akamina Parkway can be tackled on foot by the flat, easy Cameron Lakeshore Trail or by boat along the lake’s surface.

There is a short, easy 3 KM (1.9 mile) hike along the west shore of this beautiful, emerald, alpine lake.  Elevation gain is an imperceptible 10 m (33 ft.) to a maximum elevation of 1,670 m (5,475 ft.).  It is a relaxing stroll through lush forest, shrubbery and wildflowers along the shoreline with ever-changing views of the lake.  It is truly an amazing walk to a viewing platform. The Cameron Lakeshore Trail stops a distance shy of the avalanche slopes at the south end of the lake which hosts Forum Peak above the 2,708 m (8,883 ft.) Mount Custer Headwall laced with multiple waterfalls fed by massive glaciers and snow drifts hanging on sheer rock walls.

The kayak, or canoe, approach allows up close and personal enjoyment of the far end of Cameron Lake.  The roar of falling water enters the sensory mix and increases exponentially in the transition from very shallow, crystal-clear water into deep blue, almost black water, where the shoreline hosts large chunks of ice which have calved from the glacial field above.  Lingering fields of snow occupy areas protected from the sun. There is an excellent boat rental facility at Cameron Lake.  Good upper body workout.

Cameron Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Cameron Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Cameron Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Cameron Lake, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lineham Falls

The Waterton Lakes National Park  Visitor Centre Guide lists this easy day hike as 8.4 KM (5.2 miles) return with modest elevation gain of 350 m (1,148 ft.).  The Lineham Creek waterfall is sourced by the colorful, pristine, alpine Lineham Lakes from the bowl above, beneath Lineham Ridge.   Those awesome lakes above are accessed by the Rowe Lakes Trail to the top of Lineham Ridge for the indelibly memorable, breathtaking view.

Lineham Falls, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lineham Falls, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Lineham Falls, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

A subsidiary waterfall along Lineham Creek on the hike to Lineham Falls, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada

Waterton Lakes National Park is one of my favorite Canadian National Parks.  This magnificent park is a little off the beaten path but consistently growing popularity is competing aggressively with the limited supply of accommodation.  Advance planning and reservations are important.

A Falcon Guide titled, ‘Hiking Glacier and Waterton National Park’ by Erik Molvar is an excellent reference and I highly recommend stopping into the Visitor Centre on arrival to acquire the invaluable ‘My Waterton Visitors Guide’.

Waterton Lakes National Park is pure magic.

When driving south from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, it is worth the time to stop into Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump for a fascinating stroll and a well presented historical background of the area.  Lunch in Pincher Creek will provide a pleasant interlude prior to a convenient, midafternoon arrival in Waterton Lakes National Park.

For any trail you choose to hike, please, carry a map, consult and carry a good hiking guide, and obtain current trail conditions and forecasted weather from the Visitor Centre.  Tell someone where you are going and how long you expect to be there.  On completion, let them know you have completed your day hike to avoid potentially expensive search parties leaving to look for you.

Stay safe.  Carry layers and pack everything  you may need to enjoy a great day.

Climb these summits and get their good tidings.  Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.  The winds will blow their freshness into you and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.  John Muir.

From Summit Stones and Adventure Musings by DSD

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