Backpacking/Canada/Alberta/Banff National Park

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation

1,513 m

Distance

31.1 km

Duration

2-3 days

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Pharaoh Creek Backpacking Trail

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Route description
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Route information
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The Pharaoh Creek backpacking trail follows the same route that many take to reach Egypt Lake and it’s cascading counterparts. The trail takes Healy Creek up and over the wildflower mecca of Healy Pass before descending to Egypt Lake and continuing along Pharaoh Creek. This is a scenic trip that has the possibility to join surrounding trails.

Route Description for Pharaoh Creek Backpacking Trail

Pharaoh Creek lies beyond the impossible-to-reserve Egypt Lake campground and offers a quiet retreat just past the crowds. The trail can be busy until the main Egypt Lake area, but clears up almost immediately after crossing Pharaoh Creek the first time. This is a great option for those looking to find solitude yet remain close to great day hikes.

From the trailhead, ascend the approximately 700 m to Healy Pass. You will be mostly in the forest, passing a campground around 7.0 km and some large avalanche paths. You will exit the forest at a babbling creek with a footbridge. The meadows of Healy Pass are expansive and exploding with wildflowers at the right time of year. Gain the pass and admire the panoramic views. You will be able to spot Egypt Lake to the south of the gigantic Pharaoh Peak. Descend the pass following switchbacks down to Pharaoh Creek.

Cross the footbridge towards the campground and stay right, taking the trail to Pharaoh Creek. The Pharaoh Creek campground will appear on your left, with towering views that rise above the trees. This trail connects to many other backpacking routes in the area, but our description is for an out-and-back trip.

Getting to the Pharaoh Creek Backpacking Trail Trailhead

The Pharaoh Creek backpacking route begins at the Healy Pass trailhead at Sunshine Village Ski Resort. From the Town of Banff, take the Trans-Canada Highway westbound. Take the exit for Sunshine Village and cross over the highway before driving up the access road, parking in the main parking lot. Walk behind the gondola station and main lodge to find a large trail sign for Healy Pass.

Route Information

When to do:
July-September
Backcountry Campsites:
Pharaoh Creek Re16
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back