Taylor Lake Trail

The "Taylor Lake Grind" is a classic winter objective for those seeking a longer, more secluded alpine experience. While the ascent is a steady forested climb, the reward is a stunning high-alpine basin dominated by Mount Bell and Panorama Ridge.

Technical Stats

• Distance: 13.0 km to 14.0 km return.
• Elevation Gain: 585 m to 625 m (approx. 2,000 ft).
• Estimated Time: 4.5 to 6.5 hours.
• Difficulty: Difficult (Blue Square/Black Diamond).

Avalanche Safety

Taylor Lake is rated as Simple (Class 1) Avalanche Terrain, making it one of the safer "difficult" winter hikes in the park.

• Danger Zones: Do not attempt to continue to Panorama Ridge or O'Brien Lake without AST-1 training and rescue gear. Stay away from the steep slopes at the far end of the lake (base of Mount Bell).
• Bulletin: Always check avalanche.ca before heading out.

Gear Requirements

• Microspikes/Crampons: Essential for the first 5 km, which often becomes extremely polished and icy.
• Snowshoes: Carry these on your pack. Wind-loading often fills the final kilometer with deep, unconsolidated snow where you will "post-hole" without them.
• Guide’s Tip: If there has been >10 cm of fresh snow in the last 48 hours, snowshoes are mandatory from the trailhead.

Logistics

• Trailhead: Located on the west side of Hwy 1, ~18 km south of Lake Louise. Signed as "Taylor Lake Day Use Area."
• Parking: Large lot that rarely fills in winter. Features vault toilets and a wildlife fence gate.
• Park Pass: A valid Discovery Pass or Daily Park Pass is mandatory.

Trail Description

The first 6 km is a relentless, steady climb through thick subalpine forest. You will cross several sturdy wooden bridges over Taylor Creek. The reward comes as the trees thin, revealing the massive north face of Mount Bell and the sweeping cliffs of Panorama Ridge.