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    Katherine Lake

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5-7.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    16.6 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    840 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Katherine Lake Hike

    Hiking to Katherine Lake will take you beyond the famed Helen Lake through fields of wildflowers beneath gigantic peaks. It is a great way to extend your day through the incredible scenery the area has to offer. This is an excellent option for those looking for a longer day hike with lots of views.

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    Route Description for Katherine Lake

    Katherine Lake is a hike that is beyond the popular Helen Lake. This is a stunning area with glaciers, lakes, peaks, and an assortment of wildflowers. Try to visit this trail in peak flower season for spectacular vistas.

    The first 3.0 km of this trail winds through old-growth forest. You will pass an avalanche path in this section that opens a clearing with great views of the Crowfoot Glacier across the valley. You’ll come across a viewpoint where Crowfoot Mountain, Glacier, and Bow Lake come into view.

    A wide bench will carry you through wildflower meadows that burst with colour in the right season. After crossing Helen Creek, you will climb into an open area where you will find Helen Lake. This is the final destination for many people hiking here, but you will continue beyond to find Katherine Lake.

    Continue from Helen Lake, following signs to Katherine Lake. Views of Dolomite shoulder, Cirque Peak, and Watermelon Peak will come into view here. Enjoy Katherine Lake before returning the way you came.

    Getting to the Katherine Lake Trailhead

    From Lake Louise, drive northbound, joining the Icefields Parkway (93N). You will be looking for the Helen Lake trailhead parking lot, which is 33.0 km north of Lake Louise. This hike is across from the Crowfoot Glacier lookout point on the right-hand side of the road.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      June-September

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Katherine Lake Elevation Graph

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    Katherine Lake Reviews

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