Simpson Pass to Healy Pass via Monarch Ramparts

Junction at the ski out to Healy Trail

Junction at the ski out to Healy Trail

Friday September 5th 2014

Simpson Pass to Healy Pass via the Monarch Ramparts is another of Banff National Parks classic hikes. The trail head is at the Sunshine Village Gondola Parking. Note on the signs this is labelled as Bourgeau. Very confusing. Walk past the main building and the trail starts up the old ski out on your left. Most hikers will be content to hike up to the Healy Pass Col which is 9.2 km. This hike takes you on the Simpson Pass to Eohipus Lake which is a maintained trail. Instead of returning the same way hike across the meadow to the foot of the Ramparts and hike along the ridge to Healy Pass Col. The views from the ridge are magnificent. The Monarch rises above you at Eohipus Lake. There are also a couple of un-named lakes before reaching Eohipus Lake. Mt Ball , Mt Assinaboine, Twin Cairns and Mt Bourgeau all figure prominently.

Along the BC & AB border

Along the BC & AB border

The Simpson Pass and the BC /Alberta border. From here it is about 3.6 km to Eohipus Lake.

First view of The Ramparts ridge

First view of The Ramparts ridge

This just before the first un-named lake.

Un-named lake & Monarch Mt

Un-named lake & Mt. Monarch

 

The long Rampart Ridge

The long Rampart Ridge

This photo gives a great view of the hike along the Rampart Ridge.

Meadows infront of The Monarch Mt &  the start of Rampart Ridge

Meadows infront of The Monarch Mt & the start of Rampart Ridge

From this photo the lake is on your left and the trail is centre right to claim the ridge.

Massive Range in snow some more of the lakes

Massive Range in snow;  some more of the lakes

This is a great place for lunch. To gaze at the views of the valley and the mountains north and south.

Eophius Lake. Nestor front. Right is Indian Peak & Mt  Assinaboine distant

Eophius Lake. Mt. Nestor front. Right is Indian Peak & Mt Asinaboine in the distance

 

The ridge top of The Ramparts

The ridge top of The Ramparts

 

Scarab Lake & Egypt Lake lower

Scarab Lake & Egypt Lake lower

It is another 3 km to Egypt Lake campsite from the Healy Pass Col.

Looking back along The Ramparts to Monarch Mt

Looking back along The Ramparts to Mt. Monarch

HealyPass
Healy Pass Profile

Distance return 26.0 km Time return 8 hrs ( inc 30 min lunch ) Elevation Accumulated gain 1050 m Elevation to Summit 754m Summit height 2427 m

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