BANFF NATIONAL PARK - Canadian Rockies: Including Banff and Jasper National Parks - page 70

panoramas of the Bow Valley spread out before you in both directions. Storm Mountain
can be seen directly across the valley.
Rockbound Lake
• Length: 8.4 kilometers/5.2 miles (2.5 hours) one-way
• Elevation gain: 760 meters/2,500 feet
• Rating: moderate/difficult
• Trailhead: Castle Junction, Bow Valley Parkway, 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) west of
Banff
This strenuous hike leads to a delightful body of water tucked behind Castle Mountain.
For the first five kilometers (3.1 miles), the trail follows an old fire road along the southern
flanks of Castle Mountain. Early in the season or after heavy rain, this section can be
boggy. Glimpses of surrounding peaks ease the pain of the steady climb as the trail nar-
rows. After eight kilometers (five miles) you'll come to Tower Lake, which the trail skirts
to the right before climbing a steep slope. From the top of the ridge, Rockbound Lake
comes into view, and the reason for its name immediately becomes apparent. A scramble
up any of the nearby slopes will reward you with good views.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Whether you have your own bike or you rent one from the many bicycle shops in Banff or
Lake Louise, cycling in the park is for everyone. The roads to Lake Minnewanka, Mount
Norquay, through the golf course, and along the Bow Valley Parkway are all popular
routes. Several trails radiating from Banff and ending deep in the backcountry have been
designated as bicycle trails. These include Sundance (3.7 km/2.3 mi one-way), Rundle
Riverside to Canmore (15 km/9.3 mi one-way), and the Spray River Loop (via Goat Creek;
48 km/30 mi round-trip). Farther afield, other trails are at Redearth Creek, Lake Louise,
and in the northeastern reaches of the park near Saskatchewan River Crossing. Before
heading into the backcountry, pick up the free Mountain Biking and Cycling Guide from
the Banff or Lake Louise Visitor Centres. Riders are particularly susceptible to sudden bear
encounters. Be alert and make loud noises when passing through heavy vegetation.
Bactrax (225 Bear St., 403/762-8177), Banff Adventures Unlimited (211 Bear St.,
403/762-4554), and Banff Springs Ski & Mountain Sports (Fairmont Banff Springs, 405
Spray Ave., 403/762-5333) rent front- and full-suspension mountain bikes for $10-16 per
hour and $40-70 per day. Rates include a helmet, lock, and biking map.