Lake Louise, Alberta

Overnight in the Skoki Backcountry

21.1 Miles Total - 3280.8 ft gain - Loop Trail

Originally added by Matt Ford

Hike out on constantly changing terrain interspersed with lakes, glaciers and streams make this a great long weekend or single night adventure. Make sure to pack bear spray as the area is well known for its active bear population.

This area is best known for Skoki Lodge, a world class back country destination. Unfortunately Skoki Lodge is quite expensive, and very rarely has rooms available. Luckily you can still enjoy everything the area has to offer if you're on a budget.

From Highway 1 take the exit to the Lake Louise Ski resort. Drive 1.6 km and then turn right onto a dirt road. After 1 km on this road you will arrive at the Fish Creek parking lot. Make sure you don't park in front of the gate.

From the parking lot walk around the gate and proceed up the fire road. This road is the "ski out" for the Lake Louise Ski Area and will take you around to the Larch chair. Watch out for cars as there is the occasional maintenance vehicle that uses this road. There are rumours that you can hitch a ride with them occasionally!

There are a variety of options of different ways to explore this beautiful area, but a safe bet for your first night is Baker Lake camp ground. From there you can proceed over Deception Pass or around Fossil Mountain or turn back if you only have one night. The camp grounds in the area include: Merlin Meadows, Hidden Lake, Baker Lake and Red Deer Lakes. The Skoki Loop is 34 km and has an elevation gain of just over 1000 meters.

Camp sites are reserved, but first come first serve. Get on the trail early to enjoy beautiful light as well as first pick of the tent pads!

For all of the information on the area as well as booking a camp site use this link: http://www.pc.gc.ca/