Aylmer Lookout

Dist: 24.2km    Elev: 1015m    Summit: 6761'    Time: 7h    Difficulty: 3/5

For the final adventure of 2018, Gavin and I searched for a route that would provide rewarding views while also minimizing our exposure to the forecasted snow and strong winds. After considering a few options we settled on the hike to Aylmer Lookout above Lake Minnewanka.

Our trip begin along the popular Lake Minnewanka lakeshore trail with generous views of the water and nearby mountains in exchange for only minor physical exertion. After 90 easy minutes of good conversation and sight-seeing, Gavin and I arrived at the LM8 lakeside campsite. From there we began a steep climb to the site of the old Aylmer fire lookout, switchbacking through trees and gaining an increasingly impressive view of the surrounding area. Arriving at the lookout site we were rewarded with exceptional views of Minnewanka and the surrounding peaks; unfortunately, after leaving the shelter of the trees, we were also greeted by the forecasted frigid and unrelenting winds. In addition to the physical discomfort, these gusts also carried a thick layer of cloud over the scenery below that swiftly reduced visibility and motivation to linger to take photos. While somewhat disappointing, this also made it much easier to retreat from the miserable weather and begin our long trip back to the car. We returned the same way we came, briefly detouring to the rocky lakeshore to gain an up-close perspective of the icy and deep blue water, and we arrived at the car just in time to avoid hiking in the dark. Despite the unfavorable weather, Aylmer Lookout made for an excellent outing with a great friend.

Beginning the lakeshore trail.

Bridge over Stewart Canyon.

Stewart Canyon.

About half of the lake was still unfrozen.

View from the campground. Our objective is the ridge on the right.

Gavin channeling his inner yogi as we gain elevation.

Final push to the lookout.

Summit panorama. This view diminished within minutes of arriving at the top.

Summit shot. Notice the deteriorating weather.

The sky clearing as we approached the campground on our return trip.

There are a couple small bridges like this along the lakeshore trail.

Gavin examining the dense layer of ice and slush washing against the shore.

One final shot before sunset. A truly stunning place to explore!