Boom Lake Hike

The pleasantly gentle hike to Boom Lake in Aberta's Banff National Park is a nice escape from the crowds that hike to the more accessible lakes of the area. But Boom Lake is not to be missed! After exhausting your legs on some of the steeper, longer hikes in Banff National Park, you'll find this hike a nice rest. This glacier-fed lake earned its name from a boom of down trees blocking its exit flow. Several submerged logs, most likely due to avalanches, can be seen on the lake's bottom through its clear water. 

After meandering through sub-alpine forest along the substantially wide trail (which doubles as a cross-country ski route in the winter), the trail suddenly meets the lakeshore and opens up along a rockslide. The rugged mountains provide a scenic backdrop to the serene lake. Almost an amphitheater of ramparts, the hanging glaciers on Chimney Peak and Mount Quadra add to the beauty of the place. 

A user trail exists along the lakeshore, allowing one to explore a little more of the area. Several non-designtated campsites exist along the lakeshore. And anywhere here is a great place for a quick dip in the refreshing water!

Note that visitors should be 'bear aware' when hiking anywhere in Banff National Park.