Fodor's Expert Review Paget Lookout Trail
Due to severe fires in the early to mid-1900s, several fire lookouts were built in the Rockies, and the Paget Fire Lookout is the oldest in Canada's national parks. This 7-km (4.3-mile) moderately difficult round-trip hike with 520 meters (1,706 feet) of elevation gain, will have you switchbacking through the forest until you almost reach the lookout. Allow plenty of time to take in the amazing views of the Kicking Horse River valley, the Continental Divide, and the surrounding peaks from the strategically placed bench at the lookout which is now a shelter. (Note that Parks Canada also does a guided conservation hike up this trail; find more info at their website). If you're feeling energetic, you can continue on to Paget Peak, but beware that it's steep, with a 446-meter (1,463-foot) elevation gain on the 1.4-km (.8-mile) trail. The trail is also challenging because of several scree-filled and exposed sections, and there can be snow at the summit well into July. If you're a seasoned... READ MORE
Due to severe fires in the early to mid-1900s, several fire lookouts were built in the Rockies, and the Paget Fire Lookout is the oldest in Canada's national parks. This 7-km (4.3-mile) moderately difficult round-trip hike with 520 meters (1,706 feet) of elevation gain, will have you switchbacking through the forest until you almost reach the lookout. Allow plenty of time to take in the amazing views of the Kicking Horse River valley, the Continental Divide, and the surrounding peaks from the strategically placed bench at the lookout which is now a shelter. (Note that Parks Canada also does a guided conservation hike up this trail; find more info at their website). If you're feeling energetic, you can continue on to Paget Peak, but beware that it's steep, with a 446-meter (1,463-foot) elevation gain on the 1.4-km (.8-mile) trail. The trail is also challenging because of several scree-filled and exposed sections, and there can be snow at the summit well into July. If you're a seasoned hiker, however, the views from the top are worth it. Difficult.
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