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Akamina Ridge
An Amazing and Challenging Hike
Akamina Ridge is one of the more challenging hikes in the area, but the reward it worth it! This impressive trail takes you by two alpine lakes and includes a long ridge walk with unimpeded 360 views. The trailhead is located along the Akamina Parkway, being the same trail for both Forum and Wall Lakes. Depending on how you would like to complete this loop trail, you can hike to either Forum or Wall Lake. If you decide to take the Forum Lake route take the trail junction heading left, this is found soon after crossing the provincial border. Follow the trail up to the lake and then keep an eye out for the signage indicating the route up to the ridge. You will gain elevation very fast on this section of the hike, as you push to gain the low lying saddle ahead. Once you have ascended to the saddle, keep following the trail left as you begin your ridge walk journey. Keep an eye on the weather during this long ridge walk. Adverse weather can move in quickly and the ridge can be rather exposed in some areas. The ridge has three major knolls that you will have to both climb, descend and repeat. Enjoy the views all around as you walk the ridge. Upper Kintla Lake sparkles to the south in Glacier Park, and Wall Lake sitting below you can’t beat these world class views! Eventually you will arrive at Bennett Pass where you will then descend down to Wall Lake. Follow the Wall Lake trail back to the Akamina Parkway to complete this iconic day hike.
Distance: 18.2 km / 11.3 mi (return)
Elevation Gain: 905 m / 2970 ft.
Rating: Difficult
Hiking Time: 8 hours
NOTE: This trail offers a Guided Hiking Experience with an option to hire a local Interpretative Hiking Guide. Please visit Tamarack Adventures for more information.
