Consolation Lakes

Overview

Consolation Lakes delivers outsized scenery for minimal effort: two quiet alpine lakes tucked beneath Mount Babel and Quadra Mountain, with the Quadra Glacier looming above. It’s the perfect escape from the Moraine Lake crowds—close by, yet far more peaceful.

The Hike

Plan on 6–6.5 km round trip with roughly 120–150 m of gain, taking most people 2–3 hours. The route starts near the Moraine Lake Rockpile, briefly crosses rockslide debris from the Tower of Babel, then settles into an easy forested path along Babel Creek before opening to meadows and a bouldery approach at the lakes.

What Makes It Special

You get a sampler platter of Moraine-area terrain—rockslide, creekside forest, alpine meadows, talus slopes—and then those calm, reflective lakes framed by dramatic walls and glacier views. It’s big scenery without the big grind, and the second lake offers a lovely perspective back toward the Moraine basin.

Wildlife

Expect hoary marmots basking on sun-warmed rocks; porcupines and bears are also reported in the area. Carry bear spray, hike in a group, and check current wildlife advisories—Parks Canada occasionally implements Group Access requirements here.

Know Before You Go

• The final approach involves a large boulder field; sturdy footwear and steady footing are essential if you want to reach the water’s edge.
• Mosquitoes thrive in the wetlands around the lakes—pack repellent in summer.
• There are no facilities at the lakes or along the trail. Plan to use services at Moraine Lake area before starting.
• Personal vehicles aren’t permitted to Moraine Lake (with limited exceptions). Book a shuttle or other approved transport.

Best Time to Visit

Early July through late September offers snow-free trails and wildflowers. Go early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people, especially on weekdays. Midday (around 11 am onward) sees more spillover from Moraine Lake. Pairing a quick Rockpile viewpoint stop with this hike works best at sunrise or late day for photography.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re already at Moraine Lake and want real mountain solitude without a punishing climb, absolutely. Consolation Lakes is the “high reward, low stress” pick in the area.