Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Time to Complete Round Trip:8-12 hours
Information:
Mount Temple is the third highest peak in the Southern Canadian Rockies. From the Lake Louise townsite, this is the biggest peak looming over you, and looks like a major technical challenge. But from the other side this summit is readily attainable. However, get ready for a long day, and don't take this mountain lightly. People die here every few years, but there's no reason for it if you follow safety guidelines. Keep in mind, though, an experienced Lake Louise guide slid to his death here in 1998, and in 1955 seven Americans died in Canada's worst-ever mountaineering accident.
Contact the park warden office for information on conditions (403)762-4506. Only try this mountain on pleasant summer days with good forecasts.
Where to Park:
Mount Temple is accessed from the Valley of the Ten Peaks at Moraine Lake, about 15 km from the Lake Louise townsite. Park at the Moraine Lake parking lot.
The Route (see photo below):
Follow the righthand shore of Moraine Lake past a Lodge to the Larch Valley Trail. This is the same approach to Eiffel Peak.
Make your way up the long switchback trail, and eventually the route will flatten into the wide Larch Valley mountain meadows. If you follow the trail straight ahead, it will lead you to the Sentinal Pass switchbacks, which is the beginning of the ascent to Mount Temple. Mount Temple is the highest Peak in view. Eiffel peak can be seen to your left. As you make your way toward the switchbacks, you'll pass small, cool Minnestimma Lakes.
At the top of the Sentinal Pass switchbacks you can look back and down to a beautiful view of the Larch Valley. A fairly obvious trail and numerous cairns will lead the way. Usually on nice summer days there are many people making their way up to the summit, so ask lots of questions. Some of the route requires slab climbing and vertical gullying, which can be dangerous, especially in snow. In fact, I would avoid this mountain if there is too much snow. Even on August days, an ice axe or crampons may be required.
At the summit you will find the cairn and beautiful views. You are now standing on the highest peak around, and it's a great feeling.
