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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
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.
870 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.9 km
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.
5.5-7.5h
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

Galatea Lakes Hike

Galatea Lake mid-July
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The hike to Galatea Lakes follows a beautiful trail that winds up through the forest to the stunning Lillian Lake. A well-equipped backcountry campsite is located here, where you can take a rest on the benches and enjoy the scenery before moving on. You’ll climb up into the subalpine, where you will find the Upper and Lower Galatea Lakes.

Route Description for Galatea Lakes Hike

The Galatea Lakes hiking trail leaves from Galatea Creek trailhead on Highway 40. This is an extremely popular multi-use trail that sees a lot of traffic in the summer months. Lillian Lake along the trail is a popular destination on it’s own for both day hikers and overnighters, so beware that you will be sharing the trail. It takes extra effort to reach the Galatea Lakes, so you have a chance to leave some of the crowds behind at Lillian Lake. Follow the trail up Galatea Creek from the parking lot, and gain elevation gradually. At 2.5mi, you will pass a junction for the Lost Lake trail on your left, and in 1640ft, you will pass the Mount Kidd-South junction on your right. Continue making your way up the trail before arriving at the alluring Lillian Lake at the 3.5mi mark. The established campsite is 984ft towards the back of the lake and makes for a great break spot if needed. The first Galatea Lake is only about 0.7mi from the campsite; however, you will be required to climb some steeper switchbacks to get there. Once at the lake, you’ll notice the trail split. There is a loop trail around the first Galatea Lake that allows you to create a small lollipop by adding the 984ft out and back on the shore of the second Galatea Lake. Explore this area and take your time doing so because it is one of the must-see alpine lake areas in Kananaskis. Make your way back to the trailhead the way you came. If you are feeling up to it, book a night at Lillian Lake and make Galatea Lakes a side trip from camp. You’ll be able to take advantage of the astounding campsites right on the lake and break up the distance of your hike at the same time! Find other amazing hikes in Kananaskis Country * Kananaskis - Smith Dorrien Trail: Chester Lake, Tent Ridge, Burstall Pass, West Wind Pass and Rummel Lake. * Bragg Creek and Sheep River Provincial Park: Prairie Mountain, Powderface Ridge, Nihahi Ridge and ForgetMeNot Ridge. * Kananaskis Trail: Troll Falls, Rawson Lake, Wasootch Ridge, Sarrail Ridge and Pocaterra Ridge.

Getting to the Galatea Lakes Hike Trailhead

From the Highway 40 junction at the Trans Canada Highway, follow Highway 40 for 19.9mi until you come to the Galatea Creek parking area on your right.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Lillian Lake

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Galatea Lakes Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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