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Healy Pass and Egypt Lake

Sunshine Village

A popular hike with wildflowers and mountain views, plus a less-crowded extension to a remote alpine lake.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
26 km
Ascent
1.2 km
Descent
1.2 km
Duration
7-8 hrs
Low Point
1.7 km
High Point
2.4 km
Gradient
Healy Pass and Egypt Lake Map

Healy Pass is well-known for summer wildflowers, which are most brilliant in mid-July through August. The hike begins at Sunshine Village Ski Resort parking area, which you can reach by driving or by riding the shuttle from Banff. The trail begins as a gentle incline through thick forest and along a creek. After hiking for some time, the trail crosses a few small meadows with views to nearby peaks. Eventually, the trees thin significantly, and broad meadows take over, filled with the famous flowers. At this elevation near the timberline, you’ll also see larch trees, which turn gold in the fall.

Description

From the top of Healy Pass, the views are truly magnificent––with a 360-degree panorama of huge summits all around and blue lakes below. To the west, you'll see a pair of lakes at the base of a particularly impressive peak. The lower of the two is Egypt Lake. You can hike there by continuing along the trail, over the pass, and down the other side. This side of the pass is true backcountry, and far fewer people share the trail. Once at the lake, you can enjoy a cool dip and relative solitude on its tranquil shore. Note that there is a backcountry campground at Egypt Lake, if you want to secure a permit and turn this into an overnight trip. Other trails diverge from the lake as well, allowing even longer and more varied hikes.

Sources: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonee-hiking/banff#Healy https://travelwiththesmile.com/blog/healy-pass-hike-egypt-lake-banff-national-park/

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between June and September

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area