Adventure into the wild unknown, right from your doorstep
Shadow Lake Lodge is located in the backcountry of Banff National Park; a day’s wander from the trailhead and any conveniences, so thoughtful trip preparation is advised. Weather in the mountains can change frequently despite the weather forecast, so be prepared for a variety of conditions.
Experience winter wonderland
There is nothing quite like waking up to the hushed silence of snow falling. Whether you snowshoe, cross-country ski, or backcountry tour, Shadow Lake Lodge offers options for all enthusiasts.
One of Banff's greatest draws is the accessibility of its natural wonders. Most highlights are close to town, but adventurous visitors can follow a track-set ski trail up to Shadow Lake where crowds are scarce and the snow is untouched.
During the winter season, guests of all abilities can find cross-country ski adventures, secret snowshoe vantage points, or technical ski touring.
Call us for more information about the winter ski and snowshoe experience around Shadow Lake Lodge.
Redearth Trail Conditions
Updated April 5, 2024
Single Classic track-set April 5! Red Earth Creek Trail snow has been flat-packed by skidoo travel. Light flurries continue to provide a bit of a base over icy trails. Be mindful on steep sections where there’s higher chance of ice build-up under thin layers of snow.
Avalanche debris on trail around 3.5km from March 3rd slide; Clean-up complete.
Trail is in good condition; use caution around avalanche terrain chutes with variable day temps (Check out: Avalanche Canada prior to your trip)
Multi-use trail —> Skis, Snowshoe, Fat-bike. No dogs allowed. Avalanche terrain.
Approach described in detail below. The trail climbs gradually through lodgepole pine forests to the Shadow Lake Trail. The last few kilometres back to the highway can be exhilarating; be extra cautious with icy corners.
Avalanche hazard: From the trailhead, two avalanche paths cross the trail at kilometres 3.3 and 4.4. Also, between kilometres 6.3 and 8, avalanche paths from Copper Mountain exist above the trail. Do not stop in these areas.
Winter Access - Redearth Creek Trail
Redearth Creek trail is 14km in distance, with approximately 400m of elevation gain and an average grade of 3%. The trail can accommodate cross country skis, snowshoes, backcountry skis, and fat bikes. While most sections of Redearth Creek trail are groomed wide, be mindful of narrow corners especially on your way out. Please avoid snowshoeing, ski touring or fat biking on the trackset cross country tracks. The first kilometre nearest to the parking lot often becomes skied out and is the first to become icy. When in doubt, take your skis off and walk the hills!
Our team track-sets the Redearth Creek Trail every Thursday evening after bringing gear, food, and supplies in. There is one section with an approximately 17% grade around the 11km mark that lasts for about 200m. You may need to take off snowshoes or skis to hike up or down this, especially if winter conditions are icy.
When exploring off-trail around the lodge, the snow is deep: be prepared to wade through snow if setting your own up-track!
Be weary of avalanche chute terrain at kilometres 3.3, 4.4 and between 6.3 and 8 (upper chutes from Copper Mountain exist above this section). Do not stop in these areas.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Your group made it! You will be greeted by our friendly staff, who will check you into your private log cabin. Enjoy the afternoon tea buffet including a delicious spread of baked goodies, charcuterie, and a well-deserved hot shower in the wash house. If there’s time, scoot out to the lake to enjoy the grandeur of Mt. Ball before your three-course dinner .
Wake up to Motherlode Coffee and a warm breakfast before heading out to explore the snow! There are several full- and half-day treks from the lodge, or you may choose to relax, unplugged at the lodge. Don’t forget to pack your pre-made lunch, whatever you decide to do! Remember: we have a few snowshoes on hand if you’re looking to switch up your daily activity!
LOCATION & ACCESS
GPS Coordinates:
51 N 10' 6"
115 W 56' 19"
WHAT TO BRING?
Download our Packing List or visit our FAQ page.
WEATHER
Before heading out, we recommend visiting www.pc.gc.ca/banff for trail reports. For a Banff weather forecast, call (403) 762-2088 or go to www.weather.gc.ca.