Your Backcountry Escape FAQ’s

1. What does the price include?

Prices include accommodation, bedding, showers, breakfast, dinner, afternoon tea and packed lunches. Wine/beer is available subject to cost. All you need is warm clothes and a mode of travel!

2. When is the Lodge open?

Our summer season is from late June to late September. The winter season varies on conditions, but generally late January to early April.

3. Do you accept day-visitors?

At this time we are not accepting day-visitors. If you cannot make it as a guest, please be prepared with the appropriate food and water if you hope to visit Shadow Lake.

4. Can I request an earlier check-in?

If you think your group will arrive earlier than our check-in time of 3:00pm, let us know. While we can’t allow guests into their respective cabins until then, you’re welcome to leave your larger bags in our office while you head out to the lake with fresh baked goodies from our kitchen.

5. Do I need to bring lunch?

Please make sure you pack lots of snacks, lunch and water for your trip in. Your stay includes all meals, plus a pre-packed lunch for departure day!

6. Can I bike to the lodge?

Yes, Parks Canada does allow biking up until the 10.5km mark. At the Pharoah creek junction, lock up your bike on the ground-rack provided, and continue the last 25 minutes by foot!

7. What clothes should I bring?

Weather in the mountains is always unpredictable, so please pack a variety of layers. Outdoor boots can get muddy and wet, so packing another pair of shoes for indoor use is recommended. Please remember your small first aid kit and bear spray!

Other suggested items can be found on our packing list. 

8. Is there cell reception at the lodge?

This is your chance to unwind, disconnect and recharge! There is no wi-fi and no cell coverage at our lodge. The closest reception is our Redearth Creek parking lot.

9. I have dietary restrictions/food allergies, will there be food options for me?

Yes! Please contact our office ahead of time so that we can discuss options for your restriction or allergy.

When making a booking please do not include food preferences; Any food preferences can be shared upon check in and our chef will do their best to accommodate. 

10. Is there running water?

Yes. Drinking water at Shadow Lake Lodge originates from an underground spring and is treated and filtered to standards set by Alberta Health Services. If you’d like boiled water for your tea, let one of our staff know!

11. Can I charge my batteries/devices at the lodge?

Phones and cameras can be charged in your cabin via outlet. Please be mindful that Shadow Lake Lodge runs solely on solar power. -- Power hair tools are not permitted.

12. Is there a shower?

There is a shower for guest use in our washhouse.  We provide towels, & environmentally friendly soap and shampoo!

13. Do I need an ACC membership to make a reservation?

You do not need to be an Alpine Club of Canada member to make a reservation.

If you’re curious however about ACC memberships and you’d like to take advantage of the amazing perks, click here. Memberships start at $38/year and everyone is welcome.

14. We have small children; Can we get extra beds in the cabin?

Provided we are given enough notice, some of our cabins can be set-up with an additional cot and/or crib. Let us know at the time of your reservation what you’re looking for.

15. Do you sell beverages at Shadow Lake Lodge?

Shadow Lake lodge is a licensed facility offering beer and a selection of fine wines. Our wine list is curated by Canmore’s own Cellar Door Wines. See our full wine list.

16. Do I need a park pass?

Yes, when you enter Banff National Park, you are required to purchase a Parks Canada pass for the duration of your stay. This should be displayed in your vehicle, however you do not need a backcountry camping pass - this is already included in your reservation. Vehicles can be left at the Redearth Creek parking lot.

Purchase your Parks Pass online or at the nearest Visitors Centre.

17. What is your booking/cancellation policy?

Shadow Lake Lodge requires a non-refundable deposit upon booking, in the amount of the first nights’ stay. Final balance is due 60 days prior to arrival; There are no refunds, as fully payment is due at this time. 

Bookings that are modified within 60-days of arrival (changes to guest numbers/ dates) will have an admin fee of $125 applied to their balance. 

The Alpine Club of Canada strongly recommends getting travel insurance for peace of mind.

Please thoroughly read our policy at the bottom of our RATES page before making a reservation. If you have any questions, call us at 403.678.3200 x229.

18. Are there other trails to hike into the lodge?

Yes! Arnica/Twin Lakes trail is a scenic 14km hike via Gibbons pass, and a fun way to book-end your trip. This route can be accessed via Vista Lake Viewpoint, approximately 8.2km south of Castle Junction on Highway 93 South. There is considerably more elevation, but it is sure to impress. Find out more about this route here.

19. Are cancellations provided due to bad weather?

We like to experience the Rockies in all its moody forms! We are unable to offer refunds for cancellations due to inclement weather, or circumstances out of our control. If you are concerned at all about weather, we recommend looking into travel insurance for your family!

20. Are there any cards, games, books at the lodge?

You bet! We have a small selection of games and books at our lodge. These are sanitized regularly for your enjoyment and safety. Feel free to pack in your own family games if you’re feeling extra fun!

21. Should I be concerned about bears?

We are fortunate in the Canadian Rockies and at Shadow Lake Lodge to share this space with many types of wildlife! While human-wildlife conflicts are rare, the potential does exist. For some helpful resources on how to be prepared in the backcountry, please check out the Parks Canada Bear Safety page.

22. Am I allowed to bring my dog to Shadow Lake Lodge?

No, sorry. In consideration of shared common spaces, dogs are not permitted at any of our ACC facilities including Shadow Lake Lodge. Parks Canada allows (on-leash) dogs on many trails, however, and you can read more about where you can take your dog for a hike in Banff here.

23. Is there a place to stretch and warm up/cool down at the lodge?

Yes! We have plenty of yoga mats that you can take to your room or set up in the CPR cabin.