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Rockies :: Kananaskis :: Rummel Lake and Pass

GPS Track

Rummel lake Panorama with Mt. Galatea in Background.  Distant Rummel Pass extreme center left

Sep 24, 2024

Similar to Chester basin, Rummel Lake area provides pleasant and undemanding access to classic K-Country alpine.  Official and maintained trail starts directly opposite Mt. Shark / Engadine Lodge turnoff.   It is about 5.5km,  1:15 - 1:20 hr of moderate pace to the lake, passing signed High Rockies Trail in lower part (see Gallery).   Past upper junction trail dips into the forest and becomes quite rooty, before crossing Rummel creek on solid bridge then climbing final stretch to the lake.   Nestled in peaceful alpine cirque below Mt. Galatea Rummel lake also has back-country campground - but you are allowed to camp only in winter.  I find this rule quite puzzling and have serious doubts anyone actually camps here;  no restrictions for using outhouse though!

Real reward lies in hiking beyond the lake.  Trail continues around the lake, then climbs shallow draw and exits in delightful alpine meadow.  Several larch stands also make this very good late September destination.  Two trails exist at opposite sides of this valley and eventually merge by lower Tarn which usually dries out late in season.  Upper Tarn, just below 2405m high Rummel Pass will still have water.  The Pass is wide and usually windswept, but offers great easterly views towards Galatea Creek and unfrequently visited Lost Lake directly below.  1-way traverse between Spray and Hwy40 corridors is possible this way, but will require 2 vehicles.

It is worth noting Rummel is frequently done on XC-Skis or snowshoes, as evident by  yellow wands nailed high in trees.  I have not been here in winter but it is likely very pleasant.  Going further to the Pass will require safe conditions as narrow gap below the Pass is avalanche zone.

Gallery

Lookout Point Wood bench at lower junction with High Rockies Trail with view of Spray Lakes ~2km from Trailhead