Banff: Castle Mountain Lookout

We decided to sleep-in a bit this day and so we did not get started with our day until around 8am. Given the "late" start we decided to go for a shorter hike this day and to explore some touristy spots in Yoho National Park. Our first stop of the day was the hike at Castle Mountain Lookout.

This trail can be found on the Bow Valley Parkway about halfway between Lake Louise and Banff. It does not seem to be a heavily traveled trail as we only encountered one other group of hikers while we were there.

The trail for the most part travels though a forested mountainside as you steadily climb up with views across the Bow Valley.

There are several spots where you break free of the treeline and get an unobstructed view. 

The trail ends at an open lookout point that is surrounded by forest.

This little guy quickly made his appearance upon our arrival, probably hoping to join us for lunch!

One of the great initiatives that Parks Canada has instituted is the construction of these animal crossing bridges. They are landscaped to look natural and allow a safe crossing across the highway for the animals. I think they are wonderful.  We were able to spot one from the lookout point.

 

Taking a break at the top of the trail

 This was the scariest part of the hike for me, I get nervous when I don't have firm ground under my feet.

Towards the bottom of the trail there was a small creek. The dogs loved it and decided to have a drink and cool off. 

Overall this is a nice short hike if you have less time although the views are rather limited. One of the less spectacular hikes that we went on on the trip.