November 18, 2017

Rummel Lake

Dist: 8.8km    Elev: 350m    Time: 3h    Difficulty: 2/5

We finally got all four "Counsellor Bros" together for a day in the mountains!  Aware of increasing avalanche risk in the area, we chose the protected and scenic hiking/snowshoe route to Rummel Lake. Even with a cloudy grey sky, we enjoyed great views of the Spray Valley and surrounding snow-topped wilderness while musing about various psychological phenomena. The hike to Rummel Lake is a relatively easy trip, great for hikers of all fitness levels who are looking for a beautiful half-day in the mountains without having to commit too much time and physical energy.

Trail Description:
Park on the pullout on the side of Mt Shark Road, signed for Engadine Lodge, 30km beyond the Canmore Nordic Centre on Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trail (Hwy 742).  The trail begins on the opposite side of the highway, gently ascending through thick forest for the first thirty minutes. Views of Spray Valley and surrounding peaks appear as the obvious trail continues climbing through trees.  Cross a small footbridge over Rummel Creek around the one hour mark, and arrive at Rummel Lake at 4.3 km (about 1.5 hours) from the trail-head. The lake, directly beneath the impressive Mt Galatea, was a great spot to stop for a snack while enjoying the natural beauty of this quiet and picturesque destination.


Beginning of the trail

The route is obvious for the entire hike

Brad is in his element

Views open to reveal the foggy Tent Ridge

Elliot and Brad enjoy the views from the first major clearing



Mt Engadine to the north

Gavin playing in the snow

Bridge over Rummel Creek

Mt Galatea can be seen from the bridge

Elliot checks out Mt Galatea

The face of adventure

Arriving at the snow-covered Rummel Lake

Rummel Lake

Gavin poses on the frozen Rummel Lake, below Mt Galatea

The only visible "lake" this time of year

"Counsellor Bros"

Rummel Creek, just downstream from the lake

Brad by Rummel Creek
Trailblazing back to the official trail

Cool blue cloud on our way back to the trail-head

3 comments:

  1. Looks like a great day!

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    Replies
    1. It was! A great way to spend some time with those guys :)

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