Wed, Oct 20 2010 - Rockbound Lake (View Original Event Details)
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We enjoyed a beautiful day in the striking bowl of Castle Mountain.
Not too much in views for the first 5 km, but the trail has a moderate grade. We were entertained by a few very bold grouse. The first “wow” moment happens as you come to the first meadow and the first view of Eisenhower Tower. We are so close to it. The meadow continues to little Tower Lake.
We stopped in a sunny boulder field before Tower Lake to have the first of our two lunch breaks. We heard the sound of marmots but did not see any.
The climb up the headwall provides grand views of Tower Lake and the mountains beyond. The trail was muddy and close to being slippery; any colder and Icers would be required. At the top of the headwall, we had our second “wow” when we saw Rockbound Lake. It is a large lake encircled by the Helena Range and Castle Mountain. The field in the basin is full of larch trees, some still holding their golden needles. The fallen needles provided a golden path. The hike took 7 and ½ hours.
Thank you to Dave and Mark for driving.