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Boom Lake hike

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Hosted By
Leslie J.
Boom Lake hike

Details

Trip description
This is a fairly easy trail that gently climbs through a lush subalpine forest and then opens up to a beautiful backcountry lake, surrounded by majestic limestone walls and the spires of Mount Quadra and Bident Mountain. Here is a description of the hike:
Boom Lake Hike- Guide to Hiking Boom Lake Trail in Banff National Park (adventurealberta.ca)

Trip details:
Distance: 10.7 km round trip
Difficulty: Easy- moderate
Elevation Gain: 175 m
Surface: Packed dirt with areas of exposed rock
Trail Type: Out and back
Time: about four to five hours, including a lunch stop at the lake (and about an hour and a half driving each way)

Trailhead: Boom Lake Day Use Area parking lot on Highway 93 South, about 7 km southwest of Castle Junction. Meet at the trailhead at 9:30 a.m. It is about an hour and a half drive from Calgary, so you will need to leave by 8:00 a.m. or a bit earlier.

Because this is a fairly easy hike, it is suitable for strong beginners. However, you must agree to stay with the group at a slow and steady pace. If you are a speed demon, please don't sign up for the hike. I'll take a maximum of 10 people on the hike.

Passes required
You will need a Discovery Pass from Parks Canada.

Equipment
Please bring bear spray as grizzlies have been known to frequent the area at the back of the lake. Bring all of the equipment you would normally have for a mountain hike such as layers of clothing (including warm layers such as a sweater, hat, and mittens) as well as water resistant clothing (in case of showers); and a small personal first aid kit. Bring water and a lunch.

The current trail condition report indicates that the trail might have some wet or muddy sections, due to recent rain and small streams that crisscross the trail. In case your boots get muddy, bring a plastic bag to put them in for the drive home.

Carpooling
As I don't live in Calgary, I won't be arranging carpooling from there. However, you can certainly set up your own carpool using the comments section of the hike. The suggested gas contribution is about $20.

Waiver
You will be asked to sign a waiver at the trailhead before starting on the hike and agree to adhere to the Slow and Steady Code of Conduct.

Disclaimer
You are aware that your hosts are volunteers and not trained guides and you assume all responsibility for your own safety. All participants are responsible for assessing the current road conditions, weather, and trail conditions. You are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this hike.

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