Where we camped:
Tunnel Mountain Village 1 Campground is a popular campground in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. It is located just 2 kilometers from the town of Banff and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The campground has 618 unserviced campsites, some of which have fire pits. There are clean and accessible ablution facilities with flush toilets, showers, and electric points. There are also Bear Proof Boxes available to keep your food safely stored away from the bears.
Where did we hike?
The Ink Pots Trail is a moderately challenging 5.7 km hike in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. The trail begins at the Johnston Canyon Visitor Centre and follows Johnston Creek through a forest of pine trees and aspens. After about 2.5 km, the trail reaches the Upper Falls of Johnston Canyon, where you can take a break and enjoy the views. The trail continues for another 3 km to the Ink Pots, which are a series of small, mineral-rich pools that are a unique feature of the Canadian Rockies.
Lakes to visit:
Emerald Lake is a glacial lake located in Yoho National Park in the Canadian Rockies. It is one of the most popular lakes in the park, and for good reason. The lake is surrounded by towering mountains, including the President Range, and its water is a stunning shade of emerald green.
Hikes around Emerald Lake
Emerald Basin Trail: This is a moderately challenging 4.8-kilometer trail that goes up to the Emerald Basin, where you can get stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Hamilton Lake Trail: This is a challenging 5.6-kilometer trail that goes to Hamilton Lake, which is a smaller lake located just above Emerald Lake.
Emerald Lake to Takakkaw Falls Trail: This is a 13-kilometer trail that goes from Emerald Lake to Takakkaw Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada.
Angel’s Staircase and Point Lace Falls: This is a challenging 5.4-kilometer trail that goes to Angel’s Staircase, a series of waterfalls that cascade down a cliff, and Point Lace Falls, a small waterfall that is surrounded by moss and ferns.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is a glacial lake in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Canadian Rockies and is known for its turquoise waters, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake was named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria. It was first discovered in 1882 by a group of surveyors who were working on the Canadian Pacific Railway. The surveyors were so impressed by the beauty of the lake that they named it after the princess.
Lake Louise is a popular destination for swimming, boating, canoeing, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the Lake Louise Shoreline Trail, which is a leisurely 3.2 km trail that goes around the lake. In winter, Lake Louise is a popular destination for ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding. The Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in Canada.
Hikes around Lake Louise
Lake Louise Shoreline Trail: This is an easy 3.2 km trail that goes around the lake. It is a great option for families and those looking for a leisurely hike. There are many photo spots along the trail, especially near the Fairview Lookout.
Lake Agnes Trail: This is a moderate 5 km trail that goes to Lake Agnes Teahouse. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. Along the way, you will pass Mirror Lake, which is a great place to stop for a photo. Lake Agnes Teahouse is a popular spot for lunch, and the views from the teahouse are amazing.
Plain of Six Glaciers Trail: This is a challenging 8 km trail that goes to the Plain of Six Glaciers teahouse. The trail is steep in some places, but the views from the teahouse are worth it. You can see six different glaciers from the teahouse, including Mount Temple, the highest peak in Banff National Park.
Big Beehive Trail: This is a challenging 6 km trail that goes to the top of Big Beehive, which is a viewpoint with panoramic views of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains. The trail is steep in some places, but the views from the top are worth it.
Little Beehive Trail: This is a moderate 4 km trail that goes to the top of Little Beehive, which is a viewpoint with views of Lake Louise, Victoria Glacier, and the Big Beehive. The trail is less steep than the Big Beehive Trail, but it is still challenging in some places.
