We often share hiking stories with our neighbors, Kirstie and Kevin. Really, the best way to know what you are getting into is to talk to someone who has done it. And recommends it. This was the case with Healy Pass in Banff National Park.
Giant Larch tree along the trail. In the fall, it becomes a beautiful golden color.
One day at the dog park, Kevin could not stop talking about how incredible the wildflowers were at Healy Pass. He and Kirsty lived in Banff before moving to Canmore and it was one of their favorite places to visit. At first we were slightly skeptical—our first attempt last fall ended early, thanks to inclement weather.
But ultimately, Kevin convinced us. OK, it was only 11.5 miles—a walk in the park for some. And hey, the 3,000 feet of elevation was spread over a really long distance—totally doable—if we took our time.
The beginning of the Healy Pass trail was far from compelling. It’s located behind the Sunshine Village Lodge and initially runs alongside a service road. To the left, we saw gondolas ascending alongside us. Thankfully, this portion of the trail was relatively short.
A little over a mile in it intersected with the Lower Canyon trail and made its way into dense forest.
Our first stop was at the bridge crossing Healy Creek. The sun was just beginning to filter through the trees.
Creekside.
The trail followed the creek, passing several small openings along the way, a preview of what was to come.
View of the Healy creek, just before entering the meadows.
The meadow was indescribably beautiful. A continuous field of flowers. We felt like we’re walking through a vast botanical garden.
Meadows as far as you could see.
Heading towards the pass.
At the pass, we were rewarded with a view of the entire valley. The Monarch Ramparts, multiple small lakes, and massive mountains. Mt. Assiniboine could also be seen, almost hidden behind neighboring peaks.
Monarch ramparts on the right, Mt. Assiniboine is the little lump rising behind the mountain on the left.
On the other side of the pass, Dave took a moment to photograph Scarab lake.
Scarab Lake, with a waterfall that drains to Egypt Lake (not shown).
The hike back was really pleasant. Nothing too steep, just a lot of distance. We took a moment at the bridge to dip our feet into the icy water.
In an age where one can get almost any hiking information or review online, it is so refreshing to actually talk directly to a neighbor or local who has done it. So far, Dave and I have yet to be disappointed.