The Cascade Amphitheatre hike isn’t the prettiest hike you’ll do in Banff Nationwide Park. Neither is it probably the most attention-grabbing one, but it surely does supply a exercise and I did revel in seeing any other facet of Cascade Mountain – the large for your face mountain you’ll be able to’t pass over whilst you’re in Banff. I did the hike solo with my canine within the 3rd week of July, and I used to be surprised at each how busy it was once and the way dangerous the insects had been. You’re going to wish to stay shifting.
The hike begins on the Mt. Norquay parking zone. You could see hikers heading out for the Stoney Squaw hike from the parking zone, however to get began it is very important head to the principle ski space, as even though it was once iciness. They don’t mean you can park very shut in the summertime, so depend on no less than a part a kilometre of strolling simply to get to the hotel and the formal get started of the Cascade Amphitheatre hike.
Be aware: If you happen to’re searching for a hike that delivers nice surroundings with regards to Banff, I’d counsel the next possible choices: Bourgeau Lake – Harvey Move path, the Aylmer Lookout hike, Healy Move (superb for wildflowers as you’ll see at the Egypt Lake backpacking go back and forth) or Fort Move by way of Sunshine Meadows as a substitute.
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Cascade Amphitheatre Hike main points
General distance go back: 15.4 km go back
General elevation acquire: 640 m or 2100 toes
Trailhead: Mt. Norquay parking zone (the decrease one)
Time wanted: Roughly 4 – 6 hours go back
Canines: Allowed on leash
Map: Gem Trek Banff and Mt. Assiniboine
Don’t fail to remember: Undergo spray, worm spray (an actual necessity), water purification droplets in the event you run low on water, and the ten mountain climbing necessities
Hike description
After parking on the decrease Mount Norquay parking zone, get started strolling in opposition to the Mt. Norquay Resort on the base of the ski slopes. Proceed north previous the Cascade and Spirit chairlifts. You’ll be able to pop into the woods on a path by way of the Spirit chairlift that may deposit you beside the Mystic chairlift – or simply stay strolling the street to the Mystic chair.
When you succeed in the Mystic chair, stroll round to achieve the hut proven within the photograph underneath. From there on the 2.7 km level, you’ll take a path right down to the appropriate the place you’ll undercover agent Banff Nationwide Park signage. There may be any other path that heads left in opposition to Mystic Lake.
Proceed steadily descending 130 metres (427 toes) at the large path to achieve a bridge over 40 Mile Creek. In this segment of path, I noticed no less than 4 mounds of undergo scat so even supposing it was once previous, I used to be on prime alert. At the different facet of 40 Mile Creek, I noticed no undergo scat in any way.
My canine was once more than happy to look the water at 40 Mile Creek firstly of the ascent, however particularly on the finish of what was once a sizzling, humid hike. I used to be too and couldn’t wait to stay my toes within the cooling waters and rub by way of itchy mosquito bites. I’ll by no means fail to remember the worm spray once more.
From 40 Mile Creek get started mountaineering at a average price. You’ll succeed in a signed junction at about 4.1 km. Cross proper to proceed at the Cascade Amphitheatre hike. The path at the left heads for Elk Lake, about 10 km far away.
Switchback, steeply now and then via uninspiring woodland. I counted round 12 switchbacks however one of the crucial switchbacks had been lengthy! At 7 km succeed in the doorway to the Cascade Amphitheatre. The path ranges out right here however continues for approximately any other kilometre. Proceed so long as you please, most likely searching for an appropriate lunch spot with the appropriate rocks to lean on and benefit from the view.
Retrace your steps to go back in your automobile. You haven’t any formally finished the Cascade Amphitheatre hike – and deserve a chilly drink.
Location map of the Cascade Amphitheatre hike
The place to stick
The trailhead to is with regards to Banff and Citadel Junction isn’t a long way both. If you happen to don’t wish to camp, there are many resort choices.
The nearest resort is Juniper Lodge & Bistro, simply off the Mt. Norquay Highway. You’ll to find excellent meals right here and a fireplace pit with a scenic backdrop.
In Banff I’d counsel staying on the Moose Lodge, the Mount Royal Lodge or Buffalo Mountain Resort.
In Citadel Junction take a look at Citadel Mountain Chalets or Johnston Canyon Resort and Bungalows. There may be Citadel Mountain Hostel.
Alongside the Bow Valley Expressway, Baker Creek Mountain Hotel is a smart selection.
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