Rummel Lake

Elevation: 2217 m
Elevation Gain: 400 m
Rummel Lake is named for Elizabeth “Lizzie” Rummel. Born in Germany, Lizzie came to Canada as a result of the Second World War. She was a well-known Rockies persona, operating backcountry lodges at Sunburst Lake and Skoki. In 1980, she was awarded the Order of Canada for “sharing her deep love of the Rocky Mountains with all who met her.”
My Ascents:
March 8 2015.
Trailhead: Rummel Lake Trailhead (Roadside)
GPS Track: Rummel Lake

After over-sleeping on Sunday morning (thanks daylight savings time), Brianne and I got off to an uncharacteristically late start. As we dragged our butts out of bed, a quick glance out the window revealed that yet another in a series of sunny bluebird days was in progress. Since days like these can’t be “wasted” in the city, we hurried to get ready and make our way towards Kananaskis. Short on time, we opted to forego the usual summit ambitions and, instead, simply enjoyed the beautiful winter scenery as we followed the popular snowshoe trail to Rummel Lake.

From the trailhead (directly across the highway from the Engadine Lodge turnoff), a well-travelled winter trail leads quickly upwards through thin forest. Views like this one of nearby Mount Engadine provide a quick payoff for the effort expended in the early going.

Snow much fun with Crux! Mouse over to witness a nice catch!

After Brianne insisted that this cute little tree looked like a lollypop, Crux decided to see if it tasted like one…

Improving views of the Fist (left), Mount Smuts (center left) and Tent Ridge (front and center) from the thinly forested ascent slopes.

Enjoying the sun and the snow! It feels like spring in the Canadian Rockies!

A closer look at Commonwealth Peak (left), Commonwealth Ridge (foreground), Pig’s Tail (center) and Mount Birdwood (right) across the valley.

Steep going – better take a break! ;-)

As we continued on towards Rummel Lake, the ascent grew less steep and less scenic as the forest became denser around us. For a couple of kilometers, the views were limited to hints of large peaks through the trees.

After growing accustomed to the dark forest, the sunny, open basin housing Rummel Lake was a sight for sore eyes! From the lake, the Tower (left) and Mount Galatea (right) dominate the view. Click to see larger.

Treats for Crux?

Treats make Crux happy!

Exploring Post-holing on the frozen lake’s surface.

Impressive cliffs tower directly above the lake.

A closer look at Mount Galatea’s slabby summit – the highest point in the Kananaskis Range.

Snow sculptures decorate the steep summit block of the Tower.

Massive Mount Galatea fills the entire panorama from the middle of Rummel Lake! Click to see larger.

Family photo at Rummel Lake before heading down (you’ve no idea how much high speed post-holing was involved in getting this shot to work with only a 10 second timer on my camera).

Enjoying our last views of Cone Mountain (left), Mount Fortune (center) and Mount Turbulent (right) beyond Spray Lake during our speedy descent.