Devil’s Thumb is not the pinnacle of hell. The view that can be admired from above confirms that we are closer to the heaven and the landscape we praise is certainly one of the most picturesque in the Banff National Park.
DIRECTION DEVIL'S THUMB
Devil’s Thumb offers not only amazing views, but also the possibility of contemplating the landscapes in peace. The trail is unmarked, which makes it less crowded. To reach it, follow the directions for Big Beehive. We start from Fairmont Chateau and follow the directions to Lake Mirror and Lake Agnes. On the way, stop by the small family tea house by Lake Agnes. When most of us end up enjoying their tea, we continue our walk along the right bank of Lake Agnes. At the end of the lake, right next to a rocky slope, the uphill climb begins. The climb up the serpentine road takes some effort and offers a view of Lake Agnes with a small tea house in the background.
When we reach the top, we have 3 routes to choose from. On the left is Big Beehive, opposite the Plain of Six Glaciers, and on the right is the unmarked Devil’s Thumb. The beginning of the trail can be identified by an overturned tree that might appear to be lying for a warning, not an encouragement. Initially, the route is easy as it winds along a narrow path and sometimes you have to climb some rocky sections. Only towards the end, there is a difficult section with a steep climb that is hindered by the sliding sand. It is worth arming yourself with solid mountain boots and poles. The end of the route is a narrow path along a steep slope and climbing rocky blocks.
ON THE TOP OF THE THUMB
The view from the top of the Thumb is a real landscape firecracker. It cannot be compared to any other views in Banff. At our feet we see Lake Agnes spreading on the left and the otherworldly turquoise Lake Louis on the right. Kayaks and boats resemble moving ants from above. In the distance you can see the glistening windows of Faimont Chateau and the bright lines of the trails diverging from it. This extremely picturesque scenery is complemented by mountain peaks rising in the distance with a green carpet of trees. For this view, it is worth going off the beaten paths and reaching the top of Devil’s Thumb.
BIG BEEHIVE AND PLAN OF SIX GLACIERS
Returning from Devil’s Thumb, it is worth visiting Big Beehive, from which we can admire Lake Louise from different perspectives. Returning doesn’t have to be the same way. You can return by going towards the Plain of Six Glaciers, thus making loops.
View from Big Beehive
The way to Plain of Six Glaciers,
- You must buy an admission ticket to the park. This can be done right at the entrance.
- Payment at Lake Agnes Tea House is cash only.
- On the Plain of Six Glaciers route there is the Teahouse where you can eat and drink – also pay in cash.
- Lake Louise is one of the most popular places in Banff National Park. Parking lots near the lake are very often full to the brim. If you are traveling by car, and you have a day of trekking ahead, it is worth arriving early in the morning. Before most tourists and excursions leave.
- Buses that run from various places are a good solution. They cost from $ 2-8 CAD – depending on age. On page Parks Canada, you will find all the useful information about transport
