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
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
This just before the first un-named lake.
Un-named lake & Mt. Monarch
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
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
This is a great place for lunch. To gaze at the views of the valley and the mountains north and south.
Eophius Lake. Mt. Nestor front. Right is Indian Peak & Mt Asinaboine in the distance
The ridge top of The Ramparts
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 Mt. Monarch
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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