Sometimes you just have to go with the flow. Despite a few hiccups –including driving pass the trailhead – we made it to Bourgeau Lake in Banff.
Ideally we would have reached the summit of Mount Bourgeau and Healy Pass but we called it “time to turn around” when the rain showed us who was the boss on Saturday.
There is a small parking lot at the trail head. Several cars were parked. We were surprised because the rain was coming down hard on the highway. We didn’t expect to see anyone here.
Immediately to the right of the wildlife gate is a sign for Bourgeau Lake (7.4 km) and Healy Pass (9.4 km). From the Healy Pass, you can continue on to Mount Bourgeau. Neither one of us said anything as we started on the trail. No one wanted to be the one to say ‘let’s turn around.’
Surprisingly the rain wasn’t coming down as hard in the trees as it was on the highway. Maybe we could make it to the pass. Maybe the sun would come out. The trail was pretty slippery with all the mud. However it was turning out to be a nice morning.
Around the 3.5K mark we came upon a little bridge. By this time we had passed a few hikers.
It was a steady climb through the forest. The mist on the mountains made for some speculator and spooky views. We were in the trees for most of the way so we didn’t see much of anything.
We enjoyed the gradual climb. It wasn’t too difficult although I think the entire trail to Mount Bourgeau is considered “moderate” to “difficult” because of the distance.
We came to a waterfall around the 5-kilometre mark. The crossing over Wolverine Creek (?) is a little sketchy. Thankfully we were both pretty nimble as we glided over the rushing water.
From the waterfall we began a gentle climb. The elevation gain to the lake is 725 metres. Around the 6-kilometre mark, the mountains came fully into view. It was a welcome sight.
After another kilometre or so reached the boardwalk that ran through the vibrant green alpine meadow. The greens were magnificent. All the rain had definitely helped the wildflowers as they were in full bloom. I can see why this hike is so popular.
I can only imagine how beautiful it is here when the sun is shining and the sky is blue.
We were so happy to reach the lake. Honestly neither one of us thought we would reach it this far (judging on how our day started).
Within a couple of minutes reaching the lake, the wind picked up and a hard began to fall. A woman told Amanda the summit of Mount Bourgeau was likely another three hours. Yikes.
Neither one of us was dressed adequately for more rainy weather. Sure we had rain gear on but … it was time to turn around. We will be back. That’s the beauty of living so close to Banff. We can go anytime!
Besides trekking out in rainy weather proves just how tough we are. Ha!
Bourgeau Lake Trail: The trail head is on the west side of Hwy 1 (TransCanada Highway), roughly 2 kilometres past the Sunshine Village Ski Resort exit. Be on the look out for the Mount Bourgeau sign. It’s easy to miss.
Damn, that looks beautiful!
Isn’t it? I think you should come explore Banff. You will never leave.