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Scrambling/Canada/Alberta/Banff National Park
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very 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.
1,667 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
17.9 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.
8-10h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Mount Bell

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Table of contents

Mount Bell is one of Banff National Park’s big scrambles, and it can be approached from two sides. Tackling this scramble from Boom Lake Trail is a great way to get to the peak! Boom Lake Trail is an easy way to get you to the base of impressive Mount Bell, which makes the exit a lot more enjoyable.

Route Description for Mount Bell

Heading up Mount Bell from the Boom Lake side is a smart choice. The trail to Boom Lake is an enjoyable and relatively flat trail that won’t exert too much energy before tackling the scramble to the peak. You’ll get a nice relaxing exit point on your way out as well.

Mount Bell is a big, technical route with a lot of elevation gain. You need to know the route well, and it is advised to have GPS and helmets.

Head up the trail towards Boom Lake. This might seem monotonous when you are awaiting such an exciting climb, but you will be thankful for this flat trail in the end. When you reach a large boulder pile on the right of the lake, you will begin your climb. Head up the steep gully with Boom Lake and Boom Mountain standing tall behind you, basking in their glory. The turquoise waters of Boom Lake will become more vibrant as you gain elevation.

You will follow the crest and reach a col where you will be able to see Taylor Lake to the west. This is where another approach to Mount Bell begins. From here, the scramble is straight forward, and you will make your way along the ridge to the final summit, where a large cairn rests on top. Watch for cornices and dangerous snow features in the early season. There are plenty of boulders and loose rocks on this route, so helmets are highly recommended.

Getting to the Mount Bell Trailhead

To get to the start of Mount Bell Scramble, from the Trans-Canada Highway, take the exit for Radium Hot Springs (93S) and travel southbound towards Radium, BC. Drive 5.0mi from Castle Junction and turn into the trailhead parking lot for Boom Lake on your right. You will begin your day here on the Boom Lake Trail.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    July-September

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Mount Bell Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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