July 24, 2023, was our transfer day away from Moraine Lake, but Joan and I didn't need to leave until 2:00, so we decided to take a stroll on the trail paralleling the access road, the Moraine Lake Highline. It's open to both hikers and cyclists. (Click on any image to enlarge.)
We aimed to reach a fabulous viewpoint with panoramic vistas that hover over the Moraine river/creek valley. We hadn't made it that far
the previous year.
At times, we could look toward the Consolation Lakes valley.
Early on there was some damage to the trail, easily walked around.
The route parallels the road, sometimes closer, sometimes further away.
Open areas speckled the forest as we climbed towards the viewpoint.
Some of the flowers were still early in their season.
We enjoyed a shifting, always panoramic view.
Looking back the way we'd come.
During our return we encountered other hikers and were passed by a mountain bike. Joan and I had a light lunch at the lodge, where the crowds never abated. Moraine Lake is a perpetual motion machine.
Then it was time to depart. Getting on Highway 1A, the more scenic route than the Trans-Canada (Highway 1), consumed extra time due to construction at the intersection. On the 1A, we encountered a myriad of motorcyclists, including two towing miniature classic cars! To reach Storm Mountain Lodge, our base for the next four overnights, we turned south onto Highway 93, which was extra busy with car and double-trailer truck traffic because of repaving work on Highway 1. This rerouted mob was climbing towards Vermilion Pass (~5600 ft.) and bound for Radium, Windemere, or as a long detour to Golden. (Click on the image to enlarge.)
But we had enough time and had no problem cleaning up for our dinner reservation at Storm Mountain.
The next day, we'll tackle a back door to the Inkpots and beyond.
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