Hike to your heart’s content in Banff’s backyard
Shadow Lake Lodge is located in the backcountry of Banff National Park; a day’s hike from the trailhead and any conveniences, so thoughtful trip preparation is advised. Weather in the mountains can change frequently despite the weather forecast, so be prepared for a variety of conditions.
How to get here: Redearth Creek
The Redearth Creek parking lot off of the Trans-Canada Highway 19.6km west of the Town of Banff. This is our most popular route into Shadow Lake Lodge. You can hike or bike (10.5km) on the old fire road, and easy-to-follow trail.
Arnica / Twin Lakes
This is a very scenic route, starting with a 120m descent to Vista Lake. Then the work begins. The trail is seldom steep, but you never stop climbing until you reach Arnica Lake. Known for its fishing, this is a small but colourful lake of varied greens.
Whistling Pass
Whistling Pass is named after the responding whistles of a number of hoary marmots that make the pass their home.
Haiduk Lake
This is an easy five hour hike, but can take longer if you decide to go on to Whistling Pass or the loop.
Twin Lakes
From the cairn at the top of the pass you can continue down to the scenic Lower Twin Lake and continue to Upper Twin Lake. This is a small mountain lake with great fishing.
Little Copper
From the centre of Gibbon Pass if you are feeling energetic, you can scramble part way up Copper Mountain (Little Copper) to the east for a spectacular view of Shadow Lake to the south, Castle Mountain to the north and Mt. Temple to the northwest.
Gibbon Pass
Gibbon Pass is our favorite hike. This short but steep trail leads to open alpine meadows and stunning views of the peaks surrounding Gibbon Pass.
Waterfalls / Amphitheatre
Follow the Lakeshore Trail to the far end of the lake. At the end of the lake, follow the flagged trail on the right hand side of the creek, you will come to two beautiful waterfalls.
Egypt Lake Loop
The Egypt Lake Loop is a long day-hike from the lodge, but worth the effort. You hike past numerous lakes and cross a wonderful pass covered with alpine flowers and impressive stand of alpine larch.
Shadow Lakeshore Trail
Follow the well-trod path from the lodge southwest through the forest where you will emerge from the trees to see the iconic view of Shadow Lake and the East face of Mt. Ball. At this point if you wish to continue to the end of the lake, double back about 50 feet until the trail branches off toward the north.
One of Banff's greatest draws is the accessibility of its natural wonders. Most highlights are close to the road system, but adventurous visitors can follow an excellent system of hiking trails to unspoiled bodies of water like Shadow Lake, along glacial valleys, and to alpine passes where crowds are scarce and human impact has been minimal.
LOCATION & ACCESS
GPS Coordinates:
51 N 10' 6"
115 W 56' 19"
WHAT TO BRING?
Download our Packing List or visit our FAQ page.
WEATHER
Before heading out, we recommend visiting www.pc.gc.ca/banff for trail reports. For a Banff weather forecast, call (403) 762-2088 or go to www.weather.gc.ca.