Hike to Bourgeau Lake and Harvey Pass

The trailhead for Bourgeau Lake/Harvey Pass is on the west side of Trans-Canada Highway approximately 5 miles west of Banff.  The turn-off is approximately 0.9 miles past the Sunshine Village Ski Resort exit.  There is a small parking lot and a restroom at the trailhead.

Enter through the gate to begin.  Initially, the trail steadily climbs through the forest with long drawn out switchbacks.  You’ll have several glimpses and a crossings of Wolverine Creek.  Eventually, the trail opens with a scenic waterfall formed by the creek.  The trail significantly steepens just past the waterfall.

Continue your climb until you reach Bourgeau Lake.  The lake is approximately 4.6 miles and 2375 ft of elevation gain from the trailhead.  With its emerald water and mountain backdrop, Bourgeau Lake is a perfect lunch/snack spot.

After hanging out at Bourgeau Lake, continue on the trail toward Harvey Pass.  Just past the lake the trail narrows and steepens again.  Follow the switchbacks until you reach the boulder field.  Here the trail turns rocky and may require a bit of scrambling.  

After the rocks you’ll come across a gorgeous unnamed lake.  From here to Harvey Pass the scenery is simply epic.  You’ll pass a smaller unnamed lake on the right and soon reach Harvey Lake.  Harvey Pass is a short climb past Harvey Lake.  Here you’ll have incredible views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies.  Harvey Pass is approximately 1.5 miles with 985 ft of elevation gain from Bourgeau Lake.

Allow 6-8 hrs to complete this moderate to strenuous out-and-back hike.