Sat, Aug 29 2009 - Sentinel Pass and Eiffel Lake (View Original Event Details)
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We had a weather-perfect day for this classic hike. Leaving the crowds of Moraine Lake behind, we were at the trailhead almost instantly. A ranger ensured that everyone is hiking at least in a group of 4; if you're not, you could end up with a whopping $5,000 fine. We were also told that bears 72 and 8 were active in the area, and after running into other COC-ers who has just seen a grizzly, we too saw one at Eiffel Lake in the afternoon.
The hike up to Sentinel was gradual for the most part. The larches have not yet turned, though there were slight hints of things beginning to change colour. We spent quite a while at the pass, admiring Mount Temple and scoping the route out for a future scramble, posing for pictures, and in awe at the climbers who were up on the Grand Sentinel. It was quite a busy place, but gorgeous spot.
After Sentinel we back-tracked a bit to get to the Eiffel Lake trail. This trail was considerably quieter and less eventful. We saw the ten peaks and Fay Glacier, but no views of Moraine Lake from Eiffel Lake. It was hot, we watched the grizzly take a swim, filled up our water at a trickle coming out of rocks, and headed back.
Thank you for a wonderful group for making this another great day out!