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Bald Hills (2404 m)

Summary

Trip Report

This is a short, fun trip where you are sure to encounter plenty of hikers of all ages. There are two large parking lots at Maligne Lake. This trail starts at the second lot (the lot on the other side of the bridge).

My other plans for this day fell through, so I settled on an easy objective and made the best of the day. The trail starts along an old fire road. I took the optional short-cut route which is a bit steeper, but no problem for a regular hiker. If hiking with children or a less fit group, the fire road is easier on the legs.

The short-cut route is a bit steeper with some tree roots and rocks.
I was quickly above treeline and walking through open meadows.
The peak is easy to gain, requiring no scrambling.
Smoke somewhat obscured views, but I was still able to relax and watch the tour boats go by on Maligne Lake.
Evelyn Peak and Mount Hardisty lie to the West.
While sitting at the peak I spotted a chipmunk harassing other hikers. I started laughing because this was easily the fattest chipmunk I had seen in my life! My laughter alerted the chipmunk to my presence and it swiftly ran over and hopped into my lap to see what I was eating.
This feisty little chipmunk bit my hand! I finished eating while standing up. The chipmunk continued making the rounds, harassing everyone else at the peak.
Leah Peak (Center-Left) and Samson Peak (Center-Right) tower over Maligne Lake, named by Mary Schäffer for Leah and Samson Beaver of the Stoney First Nation.
Hiking back out along the fire road.

The hike out was easy and enjoyable. This trail is popular with international tourists, making it a fun place to chat with passersby. I made it back to the trailhead in 3 hrs 20 min.

Looking for a snack worth attacking a large apex predator over? Try this banana bread: https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/banana_bread/. This easy recipe has been a favourite of mine for 15 years, but has never garnered quite the same reaction as on this day.

2 thoughts on “Bald Hills (2404 m)”

  1. I did this hike as a surly teenager (or maybe young adult, my memory is hazy) and I remember being disappointed by the hills and getting a big sunburn. Maybe I’ll try again now after reading your happier account.

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  2. Pingback: Opal Peak (2800 m) – Peak Bliss

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