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Helena Ridge
Banff National Park, Alberta
September 27, 2003
Distance: 22.8 km (14.2 mi)
Cumulative Elevation Gain: 1500 m (4921 ft)
Despite the long approach to Rockbound Lake, I've always enjoyed the Castle Mountain area and Helena Ridge was no exception. Caroline, Dinah and I had no difficulties following the route from the Scrambles guidebook. From the lake, we hiked up to the grassy terrace. We made our way along the terrace to a wide gully below Helena Ridge. From there, we plodded up a scree slope to the summit.
For a brief time, Tower Lake was so calm it acted like a huge mirror. The
perfect reflection was disorienting.
Helena Ridge seen from Rockbound Lake
Walking on the flats by the lake
We headed to the far side of the lake to ascend the grassy terrace
Hiking up through the larches
Eisenhower Tower and Castle Mountain
We stopped to take a break above the basin
A vague trail takes you to the col on the right then up to the summit
Stuart Knob in the background
Working our way up the rubble on the lower slopes
Looking back down
On the broad saddle below the summit
Final hike to the summit
Almost at the summit. Castle Mountain behind.
Coming down from the summit
Back at Rockbound Lake
82 O/5 Castle Mountain
