Mount Richardson

This is a difficult out-and-back scramble from the Fish Creek Trailhead near Lake Louise Ski Resort. The visitor distance is about 13.5 miles (21.7 km) round trip, with roughly 4,430 feet (1,350 m) of elevation gain. Allow about 6–9 hours for the full outing; the time depends heavily on route-finding, footing, weather, and your pace. The mapped line is stored once in the outbound direction from the trailhead to the summit, while the length and duration describe the complete return trip.

Start at the designated Fish Creek Trailhead near the ski resort and follow the rough access road toward Skoki Lodge. Continue on the Skoki approach toward Boulder Pass, then take the Hidden Lake turnoff and pass the Hidden Lake campground on the way to Hidden Lake. From the lake, climb the steep grassy slope to the south ridge of Mount Richardson. Follow the cairned, sometimes faint ridge route across rocky terrain and scree to the broad summit area, then retrace the same route to the trailhead.

The approach is a long mountain hike, but the route above Hidden Lake becomes an easy scramble with loose rock, scree, indistinct tread, and route-finding around short rock bands. The upper route is exposed to wind and changing alpine weather, and snow can make the ridge difficult to follow even in summer. Carry layers, sturdy footwear, food, water or a filter, navigation equipment, and bear spray. Travel with others and be prepared for an emergency overnight.

Park only in the designated Fish Creek area and do not substitute the Lake Louise or Moraine Lake shuttle lots for this trailhead. Dogs must be leashed and under physical control. A national park pass is required for park access; overnight stays at Hidden Lake require the appropriate backcountry reservation and permit. Check the current Parks Canada trail conditions, warnings, and avalanche information before setting out.