Larch hike: Skoki Lakes and Ptarmigan Lake via Packer's Pass

This is going to be a long day — really long! 😅

I’ve never done this hike before, so it will be an exploratory adventure rather than a predictable, well-known route. Expect some route-finding, potentially slower or more challenging sections, and the possibility that conditions may require us to adjust our plans. Everyone should be comfortable with that level of uncertainty and come prepared with appropriate gear, clothing, food, water, and navigation tools. We’ll take our time and stay together as a group 😊
Starting at the Fish Creek Trailhead, we’ll follow the ski road before heading through beautiful alpine meadows toward Ptarmigan Lake. From there, we’ll make our way over Packer’s Pass to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Zigadenus and Myosotis Lakes.
This is a full-day mountain adventure with changing terrain, some steeper sections, and a little route-finding. You’ll want to be comfortable with a longer hike and prepared for changing alpine conditions—but there’s no need to rush. We’ll enjoy the journey, take breaks when needed, and look out for one another along the way.
Depending on our pace, weather, and trail conditions, we may continue toward the lakes. Reaching them isn’t guaranteed, so the goal is simply to enjoy the best of the route and the views we get along the way.
Bring your hiking spirit, a snack, and your camera—we’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, enjoy the scenery, and share a great day in the mountains!

IMPORTANT: This hike is weather-dependent. If the weather is not good for hiking, the hike will be cancelled, depending on the conditions. Please, plan accordingly. Please keep an eye on the group for any updates, as the final decision may be made closer to the hike based on the latest forecast.

Distance: 22-24km
Elevation gain: (+ - ) 780 - 820 m
Duration: Up to 10 hours
Difficulty: Challenging due to the length — experienced hikers only

Things You will Need:

- appropriate clothing 👕
- hiking boots 🥾
- water 💦
- food/snacks 😋
- hat 🤠
- camera 📷
- a bear spray MANDATORY 🐻
- personal first aid kit ⛑
- recommended gas contribution $30 cash if carpooling 💲
- Parks Canada pass🎫
- positive attitude and smile 😊
Recommended:
- hiking poles
- lightweight pad to sit on
Attendance:
We will try to keep our group to max 6-8 people.

Important Note on Attendance: Please note that a minimum of 4 people must sign up for this hike to go ahead. If we do not reach this minimum, the event will be safely rescheduled or canceled

Meeting and Carpooling:
5:00 AM at Sirocco Park & Ride — leaving sharp at 5:10 AM.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Po7kwXDbnQgqZSM98

Look for a silver Mitsubishi RVR.
Please arrange your own carpool through the comments/private messages. Suggested gas contribution: $30 cash. Please respect your driver’s vehicle by bringing a clean pair of shoes to change into, along with a plastic bag to store any dirty or wet footwear.
Please answer all questions, or you will remain on the waiting list.

Cancellations:
Late cancellations will be considered a no-show. If you’re unable to attend, please cancel as early as possible so that someone else has the opportunity to join the hike.

Access:
Take the Trans-Canada Highway, take the Lake Louise exit, head toward the Ski Resort and Summer Gondola on Whitehorn Road. Turn right onto Fish Creek Road just before the main ski area. Follow the gravel road a short distance uphill to the Fish Creek Parking whish marks the trailhead.

Waiver:
A group waiver must be signed before leaving Calgary.

Questions: Send me a message

Disclaimer:
This is a volunteer-organized hike, not a guided tour. Everyone is responsible for their own safety, navigation, equipment, and ability. The hike may be cancelled, postponed, or modified due to weather, smoke, trail conditions, or other safety concerns.