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Hike to Boom Lake

Improvement District No. 9, Alberta

4.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

6.2 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Michael Johnston

Amazing views of Boom Mountain and the ridge separating BC and Alberta. 10km roundtrip hike. Minimal elevation gain of ~185 meters.

Boom Lake offers amazing views of Boom Mountain and the ridge separating Alberta and British Columbia. It is not as popular as many other hikes in the area, which means exclusion for anyone willing to explore the lake. The abundant wildlife in the area includes wolves, bears, mountain goats, deer, and moose. The view at the lake is absolutely astonishing.

The Boom Lake trailhead is reached by driving north from Banff, Alberta and turning southwest at Castle Junction on Highway 93 towards Radium, British Columbia. After 7.1 kilometers you’ll find the trailhead to Boom Lake on your right. The trailhead is easily found, as it is off the main highway. There is a parking area with a bathroom.

Getting to the lake, the hike is 5 kilometers with minimal elevation gain of ~185 meters. Waterproof boots are highly recommended if further exploration around the lake is something you’d like to try.

When heading out on this adventure, a Parks Canada pass is required to stop anywhere in Banff National Park. The daily pass is $9.80 per adult. An annual pass is available for $67.70.

After your adventure, The Eddie Burger Bar in Banff at 137 Banff Avenue is a great place for a beer and burgers after. The atmosphere is family friendly and the food is amazing! Try the chili cheese fries! It is recommended you park at the public parking lots located towards the end of Banff Avenue as there is very limited parking closer to the restaurant itself.

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Features

Camping
Photography
Swimming
Backpacking
Hiking
Bathrooms
Forest
Lake
Scenic
Swimming Hole

Hike to Boom Lake Reviews

Did this hike for the first time today looking for something I could do before the forecasted afternoon rain. Trail is decently flat, elevation gain is obviously there but not steep. Mostly in the trees but offers some views of Storm Mountain and Stanley Peak through the trees. A few "creek" crossings (nothing more than 3 inches deep). The views at the top of Boom Lake and surrounding mountains are spectacular. Family and dog friendly for sure!

I did this hike in the winter last year. Amazing scenery and we didn't even saw one other human.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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