Shadow Lake, Banff

By moofd

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shadow lake

shadow lake from copper mtn

Shadow Lake is located approximately 8 miles away from the TransCanadian Hwy in Banff National Park. It's an alpine lake accessible by foot only. Most people who've heard of Shadow Lake, know it because of the lodge up there.

It's also the trailhead for some minor trails that go to various alpine meadows and other less interesting bodies of water. You can get to Copper Mountain from Shadow Lake (elevation 9100 ft). It's aptly named the Copper Mountain Scramble.

I don't really recommend this lake only because of the limited trailheads at the lake, and because the dirt road is poorly maintained. The lodge hauls food up with horses, so there's horse 'debris' all over the road.


To get to Shadow Lake, park at the Red Earth trailhead. Hike or bike in 8miles until you see the Shadow Lake Lodge. The lodge borders the actual lake. As there's limited facilities up there (if you aren't staying at the expensive lodge), bring your own food and sleeping bag.




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