Sat, Aug 17 2013 - Helen Lake & Cirque Peak (View Original Event Details)
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From the moment you round the corner and exit the forest, it then became quite obvious why many consider the hike to Helen Lake & Cirque Peak to be a “premier” one. From the wild flowers in the vast meadow to the surrounding peaks, mountains and ridges plus the numerous colorful lakes in between, there was so much to cast your eyes upon.
We had a short visit at Helen Lake before proceeding with our ascent to the summit of Cirque Peak. We followed the cairns, which lead us to the fun, very easy scramble section. Then the balance of the route was visible all the way to the top. While ascending, the clouds began to roll in, and as we reached the summit the rain began. It was a very, very short visit just time enough for a few individual summit photos. Upon our descent, the clouds became thicker, visibility was poor but we could still hear each other. Instead of returning the way we came up, we took a detour side trip down off the spine to the lakelet below that was nestled in a boulder field, for a real lunch break and a little fun.
While the weather at times may not have been ideal enough to allow us to fully enjoy what this hike along the Icefield Parkway has to offer up, it did not dampen our spirits or our attitude. We rose above and still smiled & laughed and appreciated the beauty found here. Today’s bite of Helen Lake & Cirque Peak was tasty enough that some would like to return again soon for another feast and another participant even suggested there is potential for this trip to become a “signature” one.
Thank you everyone for filling today with fun. Thank you to Marina and Jean for driving.
Andra