Wall Lake hike
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Wall Lake hike
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We love the hike Wall Lake in Waterton. This beautiful alpine lake has incredible towering headwalls that are so high you’ll cramp your neck to see the top. A trail runs along the shore and offers many peaceful lunch spots where you can enjoy the view or try some fishing.
Getting there
The trail to Wall Lake begins at the trailhead marked for Akamina Pass, approximately 9.3mi distance along the Akamina Parkway from the Waterton Townsite.
About
| When to do | May to October |
| Backcountry Campsites | Yes, at Akamina Creek, 2.6km |
| Toilets | At Akamina Creek and at Wall Lake |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Wall Lake
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Wall Lake
Note that much of Waterton National Park was severely impacted by the 2017 Kenow Wildfire. To find out what trails are open, please check the Parks Canada website.
The trail to Wall Lake is part of the longer Akamina Ridge, and so begins at the trailhead marked for Akamina. Although the trail begins in Alberta, Wall Lake itself is in Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park in BC.
The path is wide and well maintained. It begins to gain elevation immediately, steadily rising for the first kilometre. After the incline it’ll level out and begin to drop.
At 1.0mi is the well-marked Alberta/BC border. Signs announce the entrance to Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park in BC. The rocky trail begins to descend.
At 1.4mi there is a junction. Stay straight at the junction for Wall Lake, another 1.9mi away. Shortly after the Forum Lake junction is Akamina Creek Campsite on the right-hand side of the trail. This backcountry campground is pretty and well maintained; however, it is frequently empty due to its close proximity to the trailhead.
Continuing straight a short distance brings you to a creek crossing on a wooden bridge. Immediately following the bridge is another junction: hikers and bikers travel left to Wall Lake, while horse riders continue straight.
Turning left at the junction takes you over two consecutive wooden bridges. The trail narrows and curves. You’re in for one shorter steep climb before the trail levels out for the next 1.2mi. From this point it is a thoroughly enjoyable winding path through a beautiful forest. The grade is fairly level as it winds through the woods towards Wall Lake.
At 3.0mi the trail opens up as it crosses avalanche paths. Views of the headwalls over Wall Lake can be seen. Just a few hundred metres further, the path crosses a sturdy wood bridge over a lovely creek. Wall Lake peeks through the trees.
Cross the bridge to arrive at the north-eastern shore of Wall Lake at 3.2mi.
As you sit along the shore of the lake, the massive headwalls tower over you, making an impressive vista. After soaking in the views, return the way you came.
Insider Hints
Wall Lake is part of the impressive Akamina Ridge (not covered here because of a short scramble section that is part of the ridge ascent). The recommended route for Akamina Ridge is to ascend at Forum Lake and descend at Wall Lake. However, if you wish to extend your Wall Lake hike, continue around the north end of the lake and gain the ridge via Bennett Pass. It is a steep and challenging ascent, but absolutely spectacular, particularly in the fall when the larches have changed colour.
Bikes are allowed on the Wall Lake trail. Aside from the initial 0.6mi climb, biking this trail is wonderful.
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Allanhoward 4 years ago
There are lots of great views here! I appreciate how the path was well maintained, as well.
Fitzgerald Hikes 4 years ago
Didn't catch any fish, but thoroughly enjoyed the day out here. Nothing hard or crazy, just a nice relaxed one.
Sammy Rickson 4 years ago
Every minute I spent here was worth it. Aside from the outstanding views of the lake, there are plenty of nice scenery along the way too. I especially enjoyed the tranquility of the forest.
Mike Constance 4 years ago
This place is absolutely beautiful. Lots of photo opportunities along the way.
Calel P. 4 years ago
The views were simply satisfying. Planning to take my nephews next time.
Jackson D. 4 years ago
Bikes are allowed on the Wall Lake trail! Would like to try biking next time. It's got some easy and well-maintained path.
Kairi Subarashi 4 years ago
There's a path that will put you through a beautiful forest. If you like being surrounded by nature, this is a great way to immerse yourself in nature.
Patrick Dumas 4 years ago
It was a remarkable experience. The lake has astonishing headwalls that will make your jaw drop. The trail runs along the shore and gives perfect lunch spots where you can enjoy the view. I want to try fishing next time.
JMC 4 years ago
Fun easy trail. The lake is beautiful and you can continue on if you choose to other destinations from the lake. Tons of places to camp around the lake. Lots of trees perfect for hammocking too.
Paul D. 5 years ago
Not a long hike and quite easy for those new to hiking or less fit. Also good for kids. Beautiful lake at the end.