We started up Galatea Creek at 9:10 after noting temperatures as low as minus 1 on the drive through the Kananaskis valley, and it was a brisk 2 degrees in the deep shade at the trailhead. It took quite a while before the sun finally came up to stay, but then we could shed layers and enjoy the warm sunshine.

We were blessed with brilliant autumn colours, first in the valley with the aspen and poplar, than in the high mountains with the larches.

Aspen and poplar in their prime in Galatea Creek valley

Lower Galatea Lake was glassy and clear, with reflections.

Lower Galatea Lake with reflections

We wisely decided to have lunch on the warm rocks, as we could see that the upper lake would be in the chill of deep shade in the ever lowering sun of autumn.


Group at Upper Galatea Lake

After lunch we visited the overlook of Upper Galatea Lake. As expected, it was quite cold there, so we didn't linger, and decided to come down on the rough OT4 route on the south side of the valley.

Larches in the high country on return loop

The view of Lillian Lake from above was glorious.

Lillian Lake a blue gem from above

We had the perfect spot for a group photo on one of the fabulous view tent platforms at the Lillian Lake campground. These deck like structures had metal tie down rings for tents, and each tent had a comfortable deck with lake view.

Group shot on the scenic tent platform at Lillian Lake

Wildlife seen: two grouse. We were back to the cars by 4:45.

Participants: Joe,Carmie,Susan,Mohsen,Ivan,John,Bill,Enrique,Janet,Audrey, and Carl coordinator and scribe.

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