Twin Lakes via Gibbon Pass

This is a classic multi-lake, larch-lover’s route that strings together Vista Lake, Arnica Lake, and the Upper and Lower Twin Lakes with a high, airy crossing of Gibbon Pass. Starting from the Vista Lake parking on Highway 93S, you drop steeply to Vista Lake, then settle into a sustained climb past Arnica to the pass before descending to the Twin Lakes. Expect an honest day out with big variety—mirror-still lakes, regenerating burn, thick subalpine forest, and an alpine break at the pass.

The standard out-and-back is about 16.6 km (10.3 miles) total from the Vista Lake lot. It’s not technical, but the grade stacks up, and the day finishes with a sting: you must re-climb the opening descent back to the car. Many hikers visit the Upper Twin and call it good; continuing to the Lower Twin adds effort but rewards you with a scenic waterfall fed by Storm Mountain and lovely shoreline details (reflections, cotton grass, and a charming double-beam bridge at the outlet).

Scenery peaks at Gibbon Pass, where you finally break from the trees for panoramic views and golden larch stands in fall. The forest around sections of the route shows healthy post-burn regeneration, adding some open feel and interesting ecology to the mix. Footing is mostly natural dirt with roots and rocks, and near the pass you can find rough, sometimes messy stretches—expect occasional blowdown and minor washouts.

Best time to hike: Fall (late September to early October) for larch season—this trail shines when the needles go gold. Summer is great for long daylight and drier tread. Spring and early summer can hang onto snow and mud above Arnica and near the pass; check conditions and bring traction/poles if you’re flirting with the shoulder seasons. For photos, aim for calm morning or late afternoon light at the lakes.

Tips: Pace yourself early so you have energy for the final climb back to the lot. If you’re short on time or pep, the Upper Twin is the simpler turnaround; detouring to the Lower Twin is a worthy add only if you’re feeling strong. Backpackers can aim for Twin Lakes Campground (TW7), which has 5 pads—reservations/permits required. Beyond Gibbon Pass, the trail dives toward Shadow Lake Lodge if you’re extending into a bigger trip.

Bottom line: If you want a single hike that delivers four lakes, a good pass, and some of Banff’s best larch color, this route is absolutely worth your day—just come ready for a grind and some rustic trail work.