Aylmer Pass hike

Hiking to Aylmer Pass is a big commitment, but it is worth it. Mount Aylmer rises above the Palliser Range at Lake Minnewanka to a height of 10374ft. It is a prominent peak and the tallest in the immediate area. Reaching the peak is a difficult scramble, but the pass is a more achievable option that still rises high above Lake Minnewanka for incomparable views.

Strong day hikers or runners can easily tackle this route in a day, but many others choose to book a site at Aylmer Junction (LM8) campground through Parks Canada’s reservation system. Booking a site allows hikers to break up the trail and complete Aylmer Pass without the out-and-back of the lakeshore all in one day. Whichever approach you choose, you won’t be disappointed with the views this hike offers.

When you park at Lake Minnewanka parking, you will pass a locked access gate on the road where the picnic areas are. Follow the paved road for 0.4mi until you reach the trail sign and kiosk. The road ends here with a turnaround and you will begin hiking along a dirt path through the woods. At 0.9mi, you will cross the Stewart Canyon bridge. There is a trail junction here that leads hikers to visit Stewart Canyon or to continue on the lakeshore trail. Stay right at the junction (left of the bridge) and continue through the woods.

The trail climbs slightly here, but nothing too noticeable. It curves to the left through the woods and brings hikers back to the right towards the lakeshore. You will come to a stunning viewpoint at 3km before descending a small slope down to the lakeshore. Mount Inglismaldie will be in view here, towering above the stunning Lake Minnewanka.

The Nakoda people call Lake Minnewanka, Water of the Spirits, and have been visiting this area for over 10 000 years.

Enjoy the gentle grade of the lakeshore trail and lookout for bears! There is plenty of rich soil that encourages berry bushes to flourish on the banks of Lake Minnewanka. Don’t forget your bear spray!

At 4.8mi, you will reach Aylmer Junction. The campsite is 328ft ahead and off to the right where there are pit toilets and picnic tables if you need to rest here. You will take the trail left of the junction to reach Aylmer Pass. Stock up on water at the stream here before starting your strenuous uphill journey to the pass.

As you slog up the steep hill, you will come to a junction at 6.3mi. This leads to the Aylmer Lookout trail which is another 1.1mi to a popular viewpoint. You will continue uphill, despite having an urge to skip the climb and head to the lookout instead.

Continue climbing to Aylmer Pass (7497ft). The pass rests at 8.4mi into your journey and above treeline, making views of the lake below clear as possible. Views open up here and the faulted mountains of the Palliser Range create a dramatic backdrop to your panorama. Return the way you came.