Jasper NP – Pyramid Lake Loop Trails – Satisfaction

Thurs. Aug 26th- We arrived at Jasper NP around 6 pm (that’s Mt time) in a steady rain. We had nice weather for most of the day, but the last couple of hours of driving had been the hardest rain that we have had so far. Our spirits sagged, knowing that we would be setting up the camper in the rain. Oh – did I mention that it was 50 degrees out. But we gathered ourselves and set up camp, and before long, we had a nice, dry, warm (or at least warming) place. Add to that a bowl of red beans and rice. and things began to look brighter.

Friday morning, actually saw some blue sky!  Brisk, at 45 degrees, but warming up a bit. We went to the visitor’s center in the town of Jasper to find out about day hikes. Jasper is a cute town with a very “Swiss chalet” style – lots of gift shops and restaurants along the main strip – but cute. The man at the visitor’s center desk was very helpful in suggesting some hikes, and we decided to go on the Pyramid Lakes Loop – a nice 4-5 hr hike that promised good views and scenery.

This hike was exactly what we needed.

 

It started out in alpine meadow , and followed along a beautiful bluff- and there was blue sky and sun! This was the first hike or adventure that we had set out on in 3 weeks that we did not start out in a misty rain and/or fog!    : )

 

The trail had good footing most of the way, with only moderate elevation gains.

 

And beautiful views from time to time along the way.

We even found the perfect spot to eat our lunch – on the crest of the hill overlooking Patricia Lake and part of Pyramid Lake.

Coming down from the hill  to Pyramid lake, there was a footbridge out to a little island. This little island had recently been undergoing a restoration project, and  1400 native trees and bushes and flowers had been planted. They had done a very nice job. The island had foot paths and picnic areas to protect the new plantings.

This is pyramid Mountain, for which the lake was named. The colors of the mountain were beautiful.

This hike was truly satisfying – everything that we like in a hike – and no rain…..