Moraine Lake & Fairview Mountain Aug 28/2011

It was an absolutely blue bird day with no clouds in the sky as we headed out to the Lake Louise area to enjoy a nice day hike. I met with my two clients in Banff we decided to attempt to see two places in once day. First off was a brief stop for photos at Moraine Lake, the sun was just rising onto the aquamarine lake and we got quite a clear view into the Valley of the ten peaks.

From there we returned back towards Lake Louise and started up the trail towards the saddleback pass. The flowers were out in late summer form, lots of green plants for the marmots and picas that we saw to feed on. Also those bold Clark's Nutcrackers were all around this day, might have been looking for snacks.

We had a nice lunch at the pass, then worked out way to the summit of Fairview, all rock but the trail was in good condition.

By almost the top, we had one party member take a break as myself and the remaining client made our way to the top. It was worth the effort as the views were 360 degrees to Lake Louise and onwards towards Jasper.

It was a perfect day for some nice warm higher alpine zone hiking. The summer is not too long here but days like this are what we live for!

James Robb
YMT Guide