Tower of Babel

What to expect

This is a short but serious scramble that rockets up a steep scree gully beside the Tower of Babel above Moraine Lake. It’s only about 1.8 miles total (out-and-back), but you’ll gain roughly 518 m in 2–3 hours. Expect loose rock, hands-on moves among big boulders up high, and jaw-dropping views over Moraine Lake, the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Consolation Lakes, and Mount Temple.

Route overview

From the Moraine Lake area, start near the Rockpile/lakeshore paths and head toward the obvious gully on the right side of the Tower. There’s no official, signed trail—just faint use paths in a broad scree chute. The lower half is a slog on ball-bearing scree (one step up, half a step back). As you climb, the rock grows larger and more stable, and you’ll use your hands more. The final section narrows into a boulder chute; move carefully and communicate with parties above and below. Most of the route isn’t cliff-exposed, but a slip on the loose rock can still hurt. Pro tip: many scramblers report better footing on the right side of the gully for both ascent and descent.

Scenery, geology, and wildlife

The payoff is enormous for the effort window—panoramic looks into the Valley of the Ten Peaks with Moraine Lake glowing below, plus a fine angle toward Consolation Lakes. You’re climbing alongside a dramatic quartzite spire—hard, metamorphosed sandstone that stands in rugged contrast to the surrounding talus. Keep an eye (and ear) out for marmots and pikas among the rocks, along with high-country birds riding the thermals.

Gear and safety

Helmet strongly recommended—rockfall is a real risk when other parties are above. Trekking poles help on the lower scree, but stow them for the upper scramble. Footing is loose everywhere; test holds and keep space between groups. Because there’s no marked route, pay attention on the approach and consider a GPS track. This is not a beginner outing and not suitable for children. Dogs are a bad idea on this terrain.

Best time to go

Aim for summer when the route is snow-free and the scree is more predictable—July through September is the sweet spot. Start early for cooler temps, softer light, and your best shot at a calmer scene around Moraine Lake. Early/late season snow or ice turns this from spicy to sketchy fast. If you just want the lake view without the scramble, there are safer, easier viewpoints around Moraine Lake.

Logistics

Begin from the Moraine Lake area near the Rockpile/lakeshore or Consolation Lakes paths. Parking here is notoriously competitive in peak season; arrive very early. If that fails, consider alternate transport options available for Moraine Lake access during busy periods.