Sentinel Pass-Mt Temple
Mt Temple is the 3rd highest peak in Banff
Statistics
Mt Temple
| Total Distance: |
2.0 km (one-way) |
| Estimated Time: |
2 - 3 hours |
| Average Grade: |
46.7% |
| Structure: |
Linear - One Way |
|
|
Elevation Gain:
|
933 m |
| Start Elevation: |
2611 m |
| Max Elevation: |
3544 m |
|
Sentinel Pass
| Total Distance: |
12.0 km (return) |
| Estimated Time: |
4 hours |
| Average Grade: |
12.1% |
| Structure: |
Linear - Return |
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|
Elevation Gain:
|
723 m |
| Start Elevation: |
1888 m |
| Max Elevation: |
2611 m |
|
Directions
Turn of the Trans Canada high way at Lake Louise Village and follow Lake Louise drive 3 KM to the Moraine Lake Road, turn left. Follow this road for 12 km to its end at Moraine Lake. The trailhead is on the Lakeshore, south of the lodge.
Details
Near the trails start take a right at the first junction. The trail begins to switch back and gain elevation rapidly before gaining Larch Valley. The trail then levels out a bit as it meanders through the thick forest of Larches, golden in late September. The trail exits the larches as it begins to gain elevation once more. After passing a rest area the trail leaves all vegetation behind and then passes a picturesque alpine lake before dramatically rising to Sentinel Pass. On this perch, views open up Northward and southward, a faint trail beckons the hiker further. This trail is the beginning of the Temple Mt. climb.
Mt Temple trail/scramble: The trail is a bit confusing in spots and good navigational skills are helpful. The route is marked with carins, but on the way up, the cairns can be difficult to spot. The trail gains 934m (3070') over 2 kms reaching a summit of 3544m (11,626'). On the return from the summit, a steep short cut above and to the left Sentinel Pass will take you back to the alpine lake.
Note: You often need to travel in minimum groups of six through this area due to Grizzly activity.
Photographs
GPS Waypoints
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