Wenkchemna Pass Trail

Wenkchemna Pass Trail is a 19.2 km (11.9 mi) round-trip out-and-back from Moraine Lake, climbing through the Valley of the Ten Peaks to a high alpine pass on the Continental Divide. It measures 9.6 km one way, and the round trip takes about 7.5 to 8 hours. It gains roughly 1,010 m and loses 265 m on the way out, so you climb that lost ground again on the return: about 1,275 m of total ascent. This is a hard, full-day hike, not just a longer lake walk.

If the whole day feels like too much, make Eiffel Lake your turnaround. It is 5.7 km one way, with about 560 m of climbing and an estimated 4.5 hours round trip. You still get the open Ten Peaks views and the lake basin, without the rough upper valley and final climb. Decide before you set out; the extra stretch to Wenkchemna Pass adds a lot of time and effort.

The trail climbs through forest on uneven ground, with roots and rocks underfoot. At the junction, follow the Eiffel Lake route rather than continuing toward Sentinel Pass or Larch Valley. Above the trees, the terrain opens onto pale rock and the first broad look at the Ten Peaks. The path across to Eiffel Lake is gentler than the climb behind you, so take a proper break before moving on.

Eiffel Lake is a landmark on the way, not the end of this hike. Beyond it the route follows the right side of the valley, crossing open meadows and boulder fields with small, stunted larches. A snow-fed stream and a smaller lake sit below the trail. The ground gets rougher and more exposed as the pass draws closer; there is no water service along the route.

Near the end, tight switchbacks climb loose scree and larger rocks below Wenkchemna Peak. Cairns mark the way, but the line can blend into the boulders, especially when snow covers the ground. Keep the route on hand and be ready to turn around if the marked path is hard to follow. This is the part that makes the hike feel like a genuine high-country outing rather than a long approach to a lake.

The top opens onto a broad rocky plateau on the Alberta-British Columbia boundary. Look back for the full length of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, including Eiffel Tower, Mount Temple and Deltaform's glacier; then turn the other way for Yoho's Tokumm Creek valley. Those are two different views from the same pass, so leave time to look around before starting the long walk back.

Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles year-round. Arrange access with an authorized shuttle or licensed operator, and check the current schedule before traveling. Moraine Lake is a backcountry site with pit toilets but no running water, cell service, Wi-Fi or lighting; arrive self-sufficient. Dogs are allowed on trails in summer unless a specific restriction is posted, and must stay leashed and under control. Avoid high-elevation trails from November through June because of avalanche risk.