Upper Rowe Lakes

This hike begins with a gentle climb following the beautiful Rowe Creek, through a mature forest with a variety of wildflowers decorating the trail. Stop in at Lower Rowe Lake for a quick break and a view of the first alpine lake on this hike. Continue on for a short distance, across a well-crafted log bridge and you will find yourself in Rowe Meadow. This beautiful natural amphitheatre has a calm stream flowing through its green landscape, surrounded by mountains. Alpine flowers are scattered through the meadow and Waterton’s unofficial wildflower, Beargrass, grows in abundance here in the right seasons. Stop here and relax in the meadow before the final ascent to the upper lakes. Follow the trail to the junction just above the meadow and branch left. In the fall the Larch trees decorate the trail with their golden colour that complement the landscape. A steep climb with switchbacks brings you quickly up to a hanging valley where the lakes sit. Water from the middle lake spills down over the edge into Lower Rowe lake in early season, and the upper lake is located just above. The high ridge behind the lakes make up part of the Continental Divide and often Bighorn Sheep are seen wandering these high elevations. Take a swim to cool off (if you’re brave!) and enjoy the view from up here.

Distance: 12.8 km/8 miles
Elevation: 575 m/1886 ft.
Rating: Moderate
Timing: 3-5 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.

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