LM8 (Aylmer Pass Junction) is a backcountry campsite located along the Lake Minnewanka Shoreline Trail in Banff National Park, Alberta. It serves as one of three popular destinations accessible via Route 6 from Banff, reached by following the trail from the Lake Minnewanka Day-use Area trailhead. The site is situated in a mountain wilderness setting on the lakeshore and is suitable for both early and late-season hiking and biking access. During summer months (July 10 to September 15), the site requires bear spray and groups of at least 4 people; dogs and bicycles are not permitted during this period. The campsite offers basic backcountry camping accommodation with minimal facilities typical of wilderness sites in the park. (via official site)
Rates & prices
Prices as published on LM8’s official website (CAD).
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Backcountry camping | CAD 15.00 per person/night |
Key facts
At-a-glance details for LM8, from its official website.
Booking & season
Location & access
Rules & policies
Facilities & details
Amenities and on-site features reported for LM8.
Know before you go
Practical things to prepare for a trip to LM8.
- At 1500 m, nights can be cold even in summer — bring warm layers.
- This is a backcountry site — you'll need to carry in your gear and water.
Location
Where LM8 sits on the map and how to get there.
What’s nearby
Shops, drinking water, fuel and attractions within reach of the site.
🏞️ Attractions
Mount Astley is a 2,869-metre (9,413-foot) mountain summit located in the Palliser Range of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada. It is situated in Banff National Park above Lake Minnewanka. It was named after Charles D'Oyley Astley, who ran the boat concession on the lake in the late 1800s.
Le lac Minnewanka est un lac semi artificiel d'origine glaciaire présent dans la province de l'Alberta au Canada, plus précisément dans le parc national de Banff. Il est long de 28 km et profond de 150 m. Le lac est alimenté par la rivière Cascade, débouchant à l'ouest du lac et par de plus petits cours d'eau descendant des montagnes longeant la face sud.
Mount Inglismaldie is the second-highest peak of the Fairholme Range in Banff National Park. It is located immediately west of Mount Girouard in the Bow River valley south of Lake Minnewanka.
The Ghost River Wilderness Area is a provincially designated wilderness area in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta protecting the headwaters of the Ghost River. It was established in 1967 and it, as one of the three wilderness areas of Alberta, has the strictest form of government protection available in Canada. All development is forbidden, and only travel by foot is permitted. Hunting and fishing a
🛒 Amenities & services
🍽️ Food & drink
- Black Anchor
- Alpha Bistro
🚰 Drinking water
- Drinking water
🚻 Toilets & showers
- Public toilets
- Showers
🎾 Sports
- Basketball
- Horse Shoe
- Tennis
Weather
Current conditions and the forecast to help you plan your trip.
Best time to visit
Typical monthly temperature and rainfall at LM8.
Good to know
Quick answers to common questions about LM8.
Are dogs allowed at LM8?
No. Dogs are not allowed at backcountry campsites during the period July 10 to September 15.
What is required when camping at LM8 during summer?
From July 10 to September 15, bear spray is required and groups must consist of at least 4 people.
Can bicycles be used to access LM8?
Bicycles are not allowed on the Lake Minnewanka Shoreline Trail during the period July 10 to September 15.
How do I book a stay at LM8?
Backcountry camping reservations can be made online at reservation.pc.gc.ca, by phone at 1-877-RESERVE, or in person at park kiosks.
How much does backcountry camping cost at LM8?
Backcountry camping costs $15.00 per person per night.
When is LM8 open?
LM8 is open year-round.
What languages are spoken at LM8?
Staff at LM8 speak English, French.
Reviews
Ratings, nightly prices and photos from people who’ve camped here.
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Other campgrounds nearby
More places to camp close to LM8.