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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
831 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.1 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Tower Lake

Tower Lake Hike
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The hike to Tower Lake is great for those who don’t have the time or energy to trek all the way to Rockbound Lake. It is also a wonderful turn around point for folks who change their minds. It is a beautiful alpine lake that sits below the impressive Eisenhower Tower—a popular climbing objective.

Route Description for Tower Lake

Tower Lake sits at a slightly lower elevation than Rockbound Lake and is a great destination when snow is still holding at high elevations or if you just don’t want to hike all the way to Rockbound lake. It is less busy than many of the other hikes along the Bow Valley Parkway, so if you are looking for solitude, you’ll be happy you picked this trail.

Start hiking from the trail sign and follow the wide dirt trail. You will pass a junction for Silverton Falls, which is a great short detour if interested. Stay on the main trail and make your way to Tower Lake. The trail narrows after about 5.0 km and reaches a meadow that will lead hikers directly to Tower Lake.

The scenery at Tower Lake is incredible, and the massive Eisenhower Tower stands high above the lake, creating a drastic landscape. Head back the way you came on your descent.

Want to find more amazing Lake Louise hikes? Check out the Plain of the 6 Glaciers, Sentinel Pass, Morraine Lake or the Skoki Lakes hike.

Getting to the Tower Lake Trailhead

To get to the Tower Lake trailhead from Banff, travel westbound for 19.9mi on the Trans-Canada Highway to Castle Junction. Take the exit and turn right. At Castle Mountain Chalets, turn right onto the Bow Valley Parkway. Take your first left turn into the parking lot for Rockbound Lake. This is where your trail begins.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    June-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Tower Lake Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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