Helen Lake and Dolomite Ridge

Start from a car park located on the Icefields Parkway (Glacier Road), at Bow Lake, on the right-hand side of the road when coming from Lake Louise.

(S/E) From the car park, head north-east towards Helen Lake.

(1) After a short, steep climb through the forest, do not continue up the steep slope but turn right (east-southeast) onto a slight incline. Then resume a steady climb, still in the forest, heading east-northeast.

(2) When you leave the forest (view of the peaks overlooking Bow Lake), head east along the hillside. Follow a few switchbacks, then continue on a gentle slope to the northwest through a prairie (flowering in season).

(3) Ford Helen Creek and continue climbing through the prairie, heading north-northwest. You will easily reach Helen Lake.

(4) Head north, keeping the lake on your left. Climb through increasingly rocky terrain, make a hairpin turn to the right and finally a few switchbacks to reach Dolomite Pass.

(5) Follow the ridge line south-east, taking care of the cliffs on your right. Continue to a peak facing Dolomite Peak (south-east), from where the ridge line descends steeply.

(6) The descent follows the same route back to the car park (S/E).

Hiking boots and equipment (warm clothing, rainwear, sun protection, etc.) are essential. There are no drinking water sources along the route, so bring plenty of water with you.

Map essential: at least the one accompanying this description and, preferably, a Canadian map, purchased locally or from a specialist bookshop elsewhere. A compass is useful.

The hike is quite long and Helen Lake is a relatively busy site: don't hesitate to start early in the morning.

Variations:
The hike can be varied in length, depending on your fitness level or inspiration:
- To the summit (6) (the ridge route is not particularly dangerous but requires sure-footedness).
- To Dolomite Pass.
- To Helen Lake, which is already a nice destination in itself.

Warning:
The terrain covered is home to grizzly bears. If bears are spotted, access may be completely prohibited or simply restricted: you may be required to walk in groups of at least four people, stay on the trails, etc. Strictly follow the instructions on the bilingual English/French signs found along the route. A whistle (keep it handy) is said to intimidate bears... I haven't had the opportunity to test it...

Hike completed by the author on 6 August 2014.

- Panorama of Bow Lake and the peaks towering above it to the west.
- Beautiful "alpine pasture" atmosphere from (2) and high mountain atmosphere from (5).
- Helen Lake.
- Panorama of Cirque Peak (northwest) and Dolomite Peak (southeast) from the ridge between (5) and (6).