Headwall Lakes

Dist: 15km    Elev: 530m    Time: 5h    Difficulty: 3/5

One of my favourite summer traditions is the annual man-venture affectionately known as "Bear Bait." After we conquered the airy Tent Ridge summit last year, I decided to mix it up this time by taking the guys to explore some alpine lakes. Headwall Lakes are known for their rugged beauty, and the physical demands of the route seemed a good match for our crew. The weather forecast called for warm and sunny but as we drove west we realized the rainy weather in Calgary over the previous 24 hours had arrived slightly differently in the mountains and, while beautiful, none of us had expected the thick fluffly blanket of snow awaiting us.

The trail started at the Chester Lake parking lot, along a logging road lined with evergreens which would probably have been rather boring had it not been for the fresh snow decorating the boughs. After about 3kms we departed the road for a much narrower and less traveled path paralleling Headwall Creek. The rapidly melting snow overhead, combined with the light bushwhacking required, made this segment of the hike feel rather shower-like. Ken, being the tallest of the company, was treated to multiple "refreshing" snowballs down the back while also struggling to keep his glasses from completely fogging over. Thankfully, after about an hour from the car, we emerged from the trees at the base of a large avalanche path and started to enjoy the warmth of the sun. Temporarily.

From this point the previously gentle ascent became quite steep, requiring careful navigation of two rocky/rooty headwalls, made significantly more challenging by the wet and muddy conditions. Thankfully these sections were rather short and we quickly arrived at the first and lower of the two Headwall Lakes. After a brief stop to admire the beauty of lake we decided to continue to the second and upper lake in pursuit of the sun that had hidden itself behind some thick grey clouds but could be seen shining in the valley above. Following the path along the east side of the first lake, we began the ascent of yet another steep and slippery headwall, this time climbing along a rapidly moving waterfall draining from the upper lake. We arrived at the second lake and settled in for a quick lunch under the now also overcast skies and in the frigid mountain wind. Good thing we came prepared by packing more layers than we expected to need for a mid-August hike!

After a few photos to commemorate our victory, now donning jackets and gloves, we swiftly returned the way we came. We enjoyed stunning views of the Spray Lakes range as we clumsily skied back down the slippery trail, each taking our share of time in the mud. Ken, equipped with his trusty hiking poles, earned the award for being most prepared. Back at the logging road, we were shocked by the green grass and wildflowers and no trace of snow to be found. A short while later, we arrived at the vehicle and happily settled in for the trip home while snacking on beef jerky and Teddy Grahams and dozing in and out of consciousness. Thanks to Lloyd for being our designated driver! The weather for this trip was certainly different than we had expected, yet we all survived (and I dare say, enjoyed) yet another "Bear Bait" adventure!

Snow! This at least kept the logging road interesting.

First views. Headwall Creek here flows from Headwall Lakes in the distant valley.

Bushwhacking. Mount Chester (left) and James Walker (right) frame the route.

Avalanche slope. The large rock on the right was taller than any of us. 

Rocky headwall guarding the first lake.

Looking back from atop the headwall.

Lower Headwall Lake.

Admiring the scenery at the first lake.

Cascades flowing from the upper lake.

Upper Headwall Lake.

Good-looking Bear Bait.

Upper Lake from where we had lunch. This angler said he didn't have any luck, but at least the views were nice.

Lower lake as we departed the upper lake. Another beautiful day in the mountains!