Majestic and iconic, Mount Temple dominates Lake Louise’s skyline…
Mount Temple, standing at 3,544 meters (11,627 ft), is one of the most prominent and accessible peaks in Banff National Park, Alberta. As the highest mountain in the Lake Louise area, it offers breathtaking alpine views and is a popular objective for experienced hikers and climbers. The standard Southwest Ridge route is considered a non-technical scramble in dry summer conditions, attracting many adventurers each year.
Despite its relative accessibility, Mount Temple demands respect for its rapid weather changes and exposure. Its striking presence and panoramic summit views make it a classic Canadian Rockies experience for those seeking challenge and natural beauty combined. Please contact us for more info.
This is a sample itinerary for a 1-day alpine-style ascent of Mount Temple. Weather and mountain conditions will directly affect our schedule. Please note we cannot guarantee exact timing or objectives due to the unpredictability of alpine weather and trail conditions. Contact us for custom 1- or 2-day ascents.
Here is a sample itinerary:
- Pre-trip Meeting: Participants meet the guide(s) at 5pm in Lake Louise for a final gear check. We review last-minute updates on weather, route conditions, and logistics for the coming days. Liability waivers will be signed. This program is based in Lake Louise.
- Day 1: We’ll start the day by taking the early morning shuttle to Moraine Lake. For the regular scramble to Mount Temple, we will start by hiking up to Sentinel Pass.
From there, we’ll follow the South Ridge scrambling route to the summit of Mount Temple. For the East Ridge (D, 5.7, 1,500m), we will start at a pullout 2.3 km from Moraine Lake. We will descend the regular South Ridge back to Moraine Lake. - Day 2: A second day is possible and maybe very useful in case of bad weather
The scramble route is for beginner to intermediate. Very good fitness required, previous off-trail scrambling experience in exposed terrains is an asset.
The East Ridge is advanced. This is a very long alpine climb, one of the best of its kind in North America. This route requires a very early start and may take up to 20 hours to complete. On top of requiring excellent fitness, previous multi-pitch trad climbing experiences to 5.9 is required. Previous glacier travel with crampons and ice-axe experience is also required.
Contact us for details
Mount Temple is located in Banff National Park, Alberta, in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, just west of the town of Lake Louise. It lies about 2 hours northwest of Calgary via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). The closest communities to this area are Lake Louise and Banff.
Commercial airports serving the region include Calgary International Airport (about 2 hours’ drive) and Edmonton International Airport (approximately 4.5 hours away). Rental vehicles are available at these airports. The area is also accessible via shuttle services from Calgary and regional bus lines serving Banff and Lake Louise.
Due to its high elevation and location in the Canadian Rockies, weather on Mount Temple is highly unpredictable and can change rapidly. Conditions on the mountain are often harsher than in the nearby valleys, making forecasts beyond 24 hours challenging to rely on.
In summer months, daytime temperatures typically range from 5°C to 15°C, while overnight temperatures can drop below freezing, sometimes reaching -10°C or colder at higher camps. Wind, rain, snow, and sudden storms are common, so flexibility in scheduling is essential. Proper gear for a wide range of conditions is mandatory to stay safe and comfortable.
Services included:
Pre-trip planning support
Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Alpine Guide or Mountain Guide services
20 years of experience in the area
Alternative plan based on current conditions
Rope use & all technical equipment
Backcountry kitchen & camp equipment
Park permits and Liability Insurance
Emergency response plan
Group safety equipment
Services NOT included:
Dinners & breakfast meals on trip
5% GST tax
Helicopter access fees in and out
Technical gear including ice axes, crampons, harnesses, helmets, prussix, carabiner, climbing shoes etc..
Personal clothing, overnight equipment, mountaineering boots *see equipment list for more details
Personal lunch & snacks
Travel to meeting location and accommodation prior to field portion trip
Gratuities
Trip interruption, cancellation insurance or medical insurance
Additional costs incurred if changes made to itinerary due to weather
How experienced do I need to be?
The scramble route is for beginner to intermediate. Very good fitness required, previous off-trail scrambling experience in exposed terrains is an asset.
The East Ridge is advanced. This is a very long alpine climb, one of the best of its kind in North America. This route requires a very early start and may take up to 20 hours to complete. On top of requiring excellent fitness, previous multi-pitch trad climbing experiences to 5.9 is required. Previous glacier travel with crampons and ice-axe experience is also required.
Is it safe?
On all our courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guarantees you the highest safety standards in the industry. Mountaineering remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.
Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?
On this program, we offer participants access to all the technical equipment at a discounted rate. This includes; harnesses, helmets, belay device, carabiners, ice axes, crampons and much more. Contact us for specific sizes and availability.
Where else can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?
Here are a few outdoor stores in the area that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.
Mountain Equipment Coop in Edmonton (780) 488-6614 www.mec.ca
Mountain Equipment Coop in Calgary (403) 269-2420 www.mec.ca
Rivers Oceans and Mountains (250) 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Nelson (250) 354-1006 www.vpo.ca
Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Revelstoke (250) 837-5517 www.vpo.ca
Valhalla Pure Outfillters in Canmore (403) 678 5610 www.vpo.ca
