The Helen Lake Trail is one of the Icefield Parkway's premier hiking experiences. It's a solid intermediate half day hike and with a good effort to reward ratio.

The total distance is 11.6km with just over 500m elevation gain - allow at least 4 hours. There is a steady climb right from the parking lot. After an hour or so, the views start opening up - first of aqua coloured Bow Lake (directly behind) and then more and more snow-capped peaks.

Eventually, the trail reaches an expansive meadows area with far reaching views of surrounding mountains. The shoreline of the lake is perfect for a break and snack before heading down the same way.

Adventurous hikers may enjoy continuing up the ridge above the lake (extra 2km return with 150m elevation gain) or even further to the summit of Cirque Peak (extra 5km with 550m elevation gain).

Some parts of the route to Cirque Peak are steep, loose, and less defined. There is a very short non-technical scrambling section near the end. Obviously, the views are incredible at the top.

A Parks Canada parks pass is required to drive the Icefields Parkway ($22/day for a vehicle of up to 7 people).