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Devils Thumb
Hiking Trail
Hard
7.14 mi
1,944 ft
A steep scramble to the top of a rock tower, overlooking Lake Agnes and Lake Louise in a picture-perfect panorama.
Devil’s Thumb is a rock formation high above Lake Louise, and it makes a striking feature of the skyline above the backcountry teahouse on Lake Agnes. Though its sides look sheer, the summit is attainable by a trail and relatively easy scramble. The view on top is incredible–high above the lakes, with an unobstructed view at surrounding peaks and across the Bow River Valley. To get there, follow the trail to [Big Beehive]( which goes around Lake Agnes and up a set of switchbacks. At the junction atop the switchbacks, turn right for Devil’s Thumb instead of left for Big Beehive. The route mapped here begins at said junction. Note that you can alternatively get there using Highline Trail, from the other side of the ridge. The trail to Devil’s Thumb is well worn but quite narrow, cutting across a steep slope. It’s safe when dry and free of ice, but should be avoided in slick conditions unless you have the right equipment and experience. This traverse soon leads to a gully full of loose scree, which you must ascend carefully, and then comes a rock scramble where you may need to use your hands. These sections are intimidating but manageable in good conditions if you use caution. Once on top, simply walk along the rock-strewn ridgeline to the edge of the summit. You’ll gaze upon Lake Agnes and Lake Louise below, with Big Beehive in between, Lake Louise Ski Resort across the valley, and a horizon of more mountains beyond. Sources: Written by Jesse Weber
Devil’s Thumb is a rock formation high above Lake Louise, and it makes a striking feature of the skyline above the backcountry teahouse on Lake Agnes. Though its sides look sheer, the summit is attainable by a trail and relatively easy scramble. The view on top is incredible–high above the lakes, with an unobstructed view at surrounding peaks and across the Bow River Valley. To get there, follow the trail to [Big Beehive]( which goes around Lake Agnes and up a set of switchbacks. At the junction atop the switchbacks, turn right for Devil’s Thumb instead of left for Big Beehive. The route mapped here begins at said junction. Note that you can alternatively get there using Highline Trail, from the other side of the ridge. The trail to Devil’s Thumb is well worn but quite narrow, cutting across a steep slope. It’s safe when dry and free of ice, but should be avoided in slick conditions unless you have the right equipment and experience. This traverse soon leads to a gully full of loose scree, which you must ascend carefully, and then comes a rock scramble where you may need to use your hands. These sections are intimidating but manageable in good conditions if you use caution. Once on top, simply walk along the rock-strewn ridgeline to the edge of the summit. You’ll gaze upon Lake Agnes and Lake Louise below, with Big Beehive in between, Lake Louise Ski Resort across the valley, and a horizon of more mountains beyond. Sources: Written by Jesse Weber
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| To the Tea House | 2.06 mi | 1,270 ft | 11.6% |
| Lake Louise to 1st switchback | 0.98 mi | 548 ft | 10.6% |
| Hwy 1 A Climb | 0.57 mi | 351 ft | 11.6% |
| The Hard Part of Big Beehive (from Agnes Teahouse) | 0.34 mi | 400 ft | 21.6% |
| Devil's Thumb from the intersection | 0.66 mi | 495 ft | 14.2% |
| Descente de la maison du thé | 1.97 mi | -1,224 ft | -11.7% |
| Mirror lake descent | 1.36 mi | -669 ft | -9.2% |