This hiking season has been about the “Classics“. In previous years, I was determined to “bag peaks”, or hit as many summits via scrambling as I could. But this year was a bit more tame. I opted for a more hiking approach: to spend lots of time in the outdoors, hike among different scenery and locations, and try to enjoy some of the hikes that Banff and Lake Louise have to offer. Earlier in the season, I’ve ventured to the Lake Agnes and Plain of Six Tea houses, hiked around Tunnel Mountain to the hoodoos in Banff, and got completely lost on the Cory Pass and Mount Edith Circuit. This past weekend, Shari, Bjorn and I would hike to Bourgeau Lake and Harvey Pass, which is another classic hike in Banff National Park.
About 8 km west of Banff is the Bourgeau turn off. We parked, geared up, and began the hike. It was a late start, but we were in no rush. The first few kilometres through the forests on a well-travelled path seemed like it went on forever, but it was worth the trek to Bourgeau Lake. The backdrop of Mount Bourgeau was stunning! We plugged onward, ascending the rocky path toward Harvey Lake and the pass.
The section between Bourgeau Lake and Harvey Pass was gorgeous! Little waterfalls; green trees with golden grass and shimmering tarns lined the path toward the pass. Once we arrived, the view was beautiful. In the distance, Mount Assiniboine rose high into the sky. To our left, Mount Bourgeau taunted us, since it was too late in the afternoon to begin the summit ascent. We could see Sunshine Road and the gondola to the top of the mountain, which was crazy to see in the summer. I wonder what hikes are in that area! It was a long trip back to the car but the day trek was well worth it. The weather was beautiful and the company was great- ingredients for an awesome hiking day.
The only not so great thing? The black liquorice candies that Bjorn brought. Apparently they love them in Denmark, especially the salty kind. Thanks for sharing, Bjorn, but my palette was not ready for such an acquired taste!
Stats:
- Start: 12:40 pm
- End: 7:40 pm
- Distance: ~ 19.8 km
- Elevation gain: 1025 m
HIKES & HAMSTRINGS 