Last updated on August 30th, 2024 at 02:16 pm
A shorter but rewarding hike along the Icefields Parkway is the Chephren Lake hike. A forested trail, perfect on a thirty degree day like when we did it, ends with a beautiful blue lake surrounded by huge mountains. It’s a worthwhile half day hike and is a great option if you are staying at my favourite, Waterfowl Lakes campground, since the trail starts from the campground.
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The Chephren Lake Hike
Distance: 3.5km one way
Elevation: 80m gain
For those enjoying a stay at the Waterfowl Campground, the trail can be accessed easily by crossing the bridge over the river. For those not camping, park at the Waterfowl Lakes day use parking by following the signs after the highway turn off. It’s a short walk through the forest at the edge of the campground to the river and then turn right to get to the bridge.
Once across the bridge there is only one trail, through the forest. It starts fairly mellow but there are some short, rather steep sections which were tough on a hot day! It levels out and then you arrive at the trail junction. Head right for Chephren Lake, left will take you to Cirque Lake, another beautiful spot but a slightly longer hike with more elevation gain. The junction has a great and clear sign, so you can’t go wrong. There is also a bench to sit and grab a drink, but watch out for the bugs!
From the junction the Chephren Lake hike continues through the forest, you get peekaboo views of the mountains from the trail. However you need to keep your eyes on the ground for the most part because there are lots of tree roots to navigate and some stretches of wet, muddy ground you’ll want to work your way through slowly without getting a sinker.
The trail is pretty flat, losing elevation slightly, just before the lake the trail descends steeply, with a few longer steps to get down to the lake.
There is a well worn trail which heads left, along the lakeshore for a short distance. There are a few spots to sit, enjoy the view and have a snack. We saw a few brave people jumping in the lake to cool off since it was so hot.
Chephren Lake itself is a stunning bright blue glacier lake with a majestic Chephren Mountain in the background. It is well worth the hike from the campground and a worthwhile stop if you have time while driving the Icefields Parkway. More peaceful than many of the other glacial blue lakes along the road.
Where Is The Trailhead
The trailhead for the Chephren Lake hike is around a 61km drive from the town of Lake Louise via Highway 93N. If you are coming from Jasper it is approximately a 171km drive heading south on Highway 93N.
From the Highway, take the turn off for Waterfowl Lakes, go past the campground turn off and follow the road to the parking lot at the end for day use parking.
What You Might Need For The Hike
A good pair of shoes is needed for the Chephren Lake hike, mostly to protect your feet from the roots which are across much of the trail. I wore my On Running shoes which have great grip but are super breathable and lightweight.
Bringing a small backpack is worthwhile, to pack water, snacks and a bathing suit if you are keen for a cold plunge when you get to the end of the Chephren Lake hike.
Don’t forget to take bear spray with you, it is prime bear territory, make sure you are carrying it, it is accessible and you know how to use it.
Places To Stay Nearby
As I mentioned, you can camp right at the trailhead, in the Waterfowl Lakes Campground. This is a popular camping spot with few services and no cell reception but which offers easy access to hiking and the lake.
For those looking for a little more luxury, a short drive away is The Crossing Resort, views from hotels don’t get much better than this spot! With an onsite restaurant and simple rooms, this resort is the ideal base to explore the Icefields Parkway and complete the Chephren Lake hike.
Under an hour’s drive is the town of Lake Louise, a highly popular spot with a range of accommodation options to suit a number of budgets. From A HI Hostel to The Chateau Lake Louise up by the lakeshore.
