Helen Lake Banff National Park

"Very rewarding hike! As someone who enjoys moderate hikes, this one was on the harder side for me, mainly for the steepness of first 4km or so. Once you get to the top of the ridge where it starts to flatten out, the views are absolutely breathtaking. As I've seen others say, while the lake is the focal point of the destination, it is not the rewarding prize of the hike. It is a nice place to sit and have lunch, However we were underwhelmed when we finally saw it lol. Once you turn around and start heading back down tho is when we found the views to be the most spectacular. The meadow you walk through is such a beautiful area. We left at noon and it was sunset just as we arrived back at the parking lot, and we took our time (late september). So if youre going for the beautiful views of the mountains and alpine meadows definitely recommend! If youre searching for a lake with the glacier blue waters like many of the lakes around here, this isnt it.

Would recommend this hike while you're in the area, if you want to go farther there is the option to continue on above the ridge behind the lake and said to be Lake Katherine not far after that, we didn't make it that far tho.

Happy Hiking!"

Cassie Wilson

"Having seen Helen Lake in both cloudy and sunnier times, I personally recommend going early in the day. Expect people on the trail here so, if you are searching for total solitude, you will not find it here. A sunny day in July will have amazing wildflowers but rainy times may have substantial mud. The first hour and change is in the forest and shade so, while you will have occasional looks at Bow Lake and the mountain, you are not missing much compared what is to come. There are also small creek crossings that are easy to navigate. This trail's beauty increases with each kilometer/mile and, when the meadow hits, there is little elevation and little shade. The lake and the area is wonderful for a lunch. I will say that, if you are explicitly going to see a lake in comparison to Bow Lake across the road, you will not find Helen Lake to be of the same caliber. Rest assured that, from the meadow to the lake, you will find beauty and wonder. The wooden bridge for the creek crossing near the lake provides a great picture as well.

As other commenters have said, I urge you to go an extra kilometer on the trail beyond the lake and ascend at least the headwall. You owe it to yourself to see all that you've accomplished. Be aware that it is steep, take it slow (No hands-on scrambling is required!), and admire what is there. If you don't, no worries - you will feel truly satisfied by the journey.

This hike is truly one that allows you to dictate how far you want to go and how much you want to do."

Kain Petlak

"The Helen Lake trail starts with a climb through the forest. As you climb there is always a great view of the Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Lake. Eventually, the hike opens up to a flat meadow. Once you are in the meadows you have grand views of the mountains that surround the area."

NERO Shepherd