Burstall Pass Trail
10.3 mi
Distance
5 hrs 29 min
Time
terrain
1,508 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a moderate out and back trail in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. Generally quite flat with good quality trails.
This trail goes by Burstall Lakes.
This hike takes you past the other side of Mt. Smutwood and offers beautiful views for relatively low effort. Fairly gradual, gets steeper at the end but no scrambling required. There are campgrounds past Burstall pass (US18 and US15 in Banff National Park) if you want to stay the night for a backpacking trip.
Getting Started
Parking is clearly signed for Burstall Pass/Mud Lake day use area along the Smith Dorrien Trail.
Taking Children
This hike is easy and fun, though likely too long for many children. Ensure your kids have the stamina to hike for several hours before taking them up Burstall Pass.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
stars
Sept 29, 2020
Gorgeous hike! This hike takes you past the other side of Mt. Smutwood and offers beautiful views for relatively low effort. There are campgrounds past Burstall pass (US18 and US15 in Banff National Park) if you want to stay the night for a backpacking trip. Trail was completely dry at this time, some snow on tops of the mountains made for beautiful photos. Larches perfectly yellow this day.
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Trails are in great condition and the alpine meadows are LOADED with wildflowers. The trail across the alluvial flats may have changed as there are numerous small creek crossing where there weren't other years (easy to cross though). Waterproof hiking boots or poles to help with balance on the logs may be beneficial for creek crossings.
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