Bourgeau Lake

We chose Bourgeau Lake for a number of reasons. First, it is near to Banff, so the drive to the trailhead is only about 15 - 20 minutes. Second, tomorrow is Canada Day, and not just any run-of-the-mill Canada Day, but the celebration of Canada's 150 years. We hope to take in the parade, music and maybe some fireworks in Banff, so also going on a hike may be a bit much. Bourgeau Lake is rated Challenging so we wanted to "bank" some exercise to cover tomorrow. Finally, at the majestic amphitheater at Bourgeau Lake the views are great.

The trail descriptions in the guide books we use provide waypoints and here's Wolverine Creek and waterfall. Wolverine Creek is actually the outflow creek from Bourgeau Lake.

The waypoint is at 3.5 miles and calls for crossing Wolverine Creek. There's no bridge, just hopping across on these caged rocks.

Lunch spot at Bourgeau Lake.

Lunch view, the amphitheater at Bourgeau Lake.

A denizen of the lake. I think it looks quite handsome in it's white coat against the orange lichen-covered rock.

Performing along the edge of the lake (center left) I hope you click on the pictures to enlarge them for details!

The beginning of Wolverine Creek flowing out of Bourgeau Lake.

Spectacular wildflowers in the nearby meadow.

Scenes on the way back down.

Click the picture and notice the emerald green lake in the valley floor.

I think the mountain range in the distance is the Sawback Range.

Spruce (Canada) grouse

Today's hike:

Length - 9.67 miles

Duration - 5 hours, 7 minutes (including lunch)

Elevation gain - 2,370 feet (237 floors on the Fitbit)