If you’re looking for an ideal hike in Banff National Park to cap off your season, we’ve got just the thing. It’s got all the beauty with a fraction of the crowds that Banff and the surrounding area are known for.
Offering a postcard mountain view alongside the renowned colours of Rocky Mountain lakes, Boom Lake is the perfect spot for those looking for maximum reward without maximum effort.
We’ll be real with you: At a total round-trip distance of 10km and 200m of elevation gain, there is some effort involved. However, it caters to all ability levels and can be done in half a day at most. The trail starts at the Boom Lake Day-Use Area, located just along Highway 93, approximately a half-hour drive from the town of Banff.
Before the trail even starts, there are a handful of picnic tables next to a picturesque stream with stunning views of glacier-capped mountains just from the parking lot alone. So if hiking doesn't strike your fancy, then no worries — just take a seat and enjoy some lunch instead whilst you wait for the more adventure-seeking members of the group to do the walking.
If you decide to hop on the trail, you’ll cross over the stream on a little bridge to start the hike. You will be taken onto a gradually ascending, well-maintained trail, through thick forest that provides a break from the sun on a hot summer day. Along the way, there are some small creeks and glimpses through the trees of the looming mountains surrounding the lake. Eventually, the trail will gently wind down towards the breathtaking Boom Mountain in all its glory. As a heads-up, although well-maintained, it does become fairly rocky and muddy closer to the lake.
After navigating some mud and rocks, a lovely little boardwalk leads to the reward for your many steps: Boom Lake. A rock slide that was formed many years ago will greet you. The endless boulders surrounding the lake’s shore are a sight to be seen in and of themselves. Find a flat rock to sit on and soak in the views, or head closer to the shore and find a spot for a quick dip to cool you off (it might be brisk, though; it is the Rockies, after all).
On a clear sunny day, the water will boast an inviting, clear emerald-turn-blue colour typical of the Rocky Mountains, with the impressive Boom Mountain, which sits on the Alberta – British Columbia border, as a backdrop.
Once you’ve admired the view, head back to where you came until you reach the day-use areas and possibly those waiting for you at the picnic tables who missed out.
As always, follow the standard precautions involved in hiking: bring plenty of water, food, bug spray, sunscreen, layers and, of course, bear spray. Please also be respectful of your surroundings and others around you. This is a popular hike, and you will most likely share the beautiful Boom Lake with other people. If you don’t feel like seeing anyone else, we suggest going for your hike on an evening or a weekday.
Of all the stunning and unforgettable hikes in the area, Boom Lake really does make a lasting impression. You will love this area and won’t soon forget this mesmerizing lake.
Oliver Reeves is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
