Akamina - Wall Lake

5 kms
2hours
moderate
Mountain Biking
Fall, Summer
Waterton Park Gate, AB

lewis

Ups and downs, with the start being mostly up (to the continental divide). After the initial climb on this old logging road in Waterton Lakes N.P., which is quite rocky and washed, there is a mild decent into B.C.'s Akamina-Kishinena Park. At about the 2 km mark, there is a well-marked sign pointing the way to Wall Lake, which is about 200 m further than the "welcome to B.C." sign. This is where the trail forks left, crosses Wall Lake creek twice, and narrows significantly. Better slow down when cycling, as there usually seems to be hikers as well, and with the frequent blind corners and rises, crashing into someone could likely happen. It's about another 2 km to Wall Lake. The trail continues on along the side of Wall Lake about another 1 km to another backcountry campsite, and just past this the trail ends at the foot of Akamina Ridge. The ride back is enjoyable because it's mostly downhill; total vertical from trailhead to lake is somewhere between 50 and 150 m (can't get a decent agreeing number from available web sites).

Directions:

Enter Waterton Lakes National Park and proceed south on the only road to the townsite. (It's a good idea to stop at the park info office for a final toilet stop.) Continue south on this road just and turn right onto the Akamina Highway/Parkway (can't miss it, huge signs). This is NOT a winter road, and when it's closed, the gates will be down. Travel south on this road 14 - 16 km to the Akamina Trailhead (there's a big sign). There is parking on the side of the road.