Ribbon Lake via Buller Pass: My First Backcountry Trip

Although I had gone on backcountry adventures through summer camps (first as a camper, later as a counsellor), it wasn’t until I left summer camps that I started to explore the backcountry independently. The first time I stayed at an established backcountry campsite was in 2018 at the Ribbon Lake campsite in Kananaskis. Our trip was over August long weekend and we were blessed with picture-perfect weather. As I have written about my more recent trips, I thought I should also write about where it all started.

Ribbon Lake Hike Summary

• Difficulty: Hard
• Distance: 10.1 km
• Elevation: 670 metres
• Trail type: Out-and-back
• Time: 4-5 hours
• Trailhead: Buller Mountain Day Day Use

Preparing for Backpacking

There was a group of six of us on the trip; five of which were former camp counsellors. We used our camp knowledge and it proved mostly useful. Common campers’ knowledge such as keeping smelly items (food, toiletries, sunscreen) out of your bag/tent, practicing leave-no-trace, and learning how to properly fit a backpacking bag all came in handy on our trip. For those without the practice, I’ve written two handy guides on backpacking for beginners and what to bring while bacpacking.

We ran into zero snags along the way which is incredibly rare for backpacking and left us with some unrealistic expectations for future trips. Overall, the hike and campsite were stunning, and the effort to get there was certainly worth it.

Choosing a Route

There are three possible routes to get to Ribbon Lake. One through Ribbon Falls, another from Galatea Day Use, and the third via Buller Pass. All the options are between 10-11 km and vary in elevation gain. Alberta Parks has more information about the possible routes on the website.

We decided to take the Buller Pass route, which is 10.1 km one way, with 670 metres of elevation gain. Buller Pass stands at 2454 metres, so be prepared for a steep climb to the top, but gorgeous 360 degree views once you’re there.

Alternatively, you can enter from Ribbon Creek trail, which is similar in distance but less overall elevation. However, there is a chain section, which we wanted to avoid with our large packs.

Ribbon Lake Trail Description

The hike begins mostly flat through the forest and gradually gains elevation. We stopped for lunch around 1 pm at this picturesque waterfall. The swimming hole at the bottom looked inviting, but the weather was not quite warm enough to convince us to brave the icy creek water.

The path was clear and easy to follow. When we arrived in the valley directly below the pass, we decided to eat our apples before the ascent. This turned out to be a brilliant idea, as the steep climb over the pass took us longer than anticipated. The climb has a few shallow switchbacks, but the weight of our bags made us feel nothing but the uphill climb. We reached the top and took in the view, and a few more snacks.

From the top of the pass we had approximately 3.4 kms to go to reach the lake. The initial downhill on the scree felt a little sketchy because our backpacks changed our centre of gravity. We made it down safely though, and walked through the beautiful fields to the campsite. The lake was perfectly calm when we arrived, a glassy reflection of the surrounding mountains. The sunset show on the mountains and lake was spectacular.

Setting Up Camp

We set up camp first, upon arriving at the campsite. There are bear lockers and a designated grey water area here. Ribbon Lake is a very established campsite, and fairly popular, so make sure to follow general camping etiquette.

After setting up camp we cooked and ate dinner, then relaxed around one of the communal fire pits. We meet some other groups of hikers, and even got lucky enough to meet a backpacking dog! I always love meeting dogs on the trail.

Return Trip

The next morning was warmer, and we set off to cover the 3 km to the pass as quickly as we could. The sky was bright blue, which made the landscape seem more vibrant than the day before. We filled up our water bottles on the way and started the upwards ascent once more.

As we made our way towards the pass, we encountered a trail runner on his way down to the lake. We were all surprised to see he had made his way over the pass already so early in the day. Later, he embarrassed us by passing part of the group before we made it to the top of the pass, lugging our 35 lb bags.

We didn’t stay at the top long this time, as the wind had picked up. Although we wanted to get some photos here, the wind was too cold and we hiked quickly down the other side of the pass. We raced through the valley (“Apple Meadow” we had dubbed it the day before), wanting to eat lunch again by the waterfall.

We made it, but were famished by the time we got there. From that point, it was maybe another hour to the trailhead. We reached the cars and dropped our packs in relief. Our first independent backcountry trip had been a success.