We’ve waited, we’ve wished, and we’re finally being rewarded. The weather forecast this weekend calls for sunny skies, and it’s time to get out there and make the most of it! This hike is less than an hour away from Calgary and serves up some unreal views of Kananaskis.
…If you’re ready for a bit of a challenge, that is.
Mount Yamnuska is no beginner hike, but it is open this time of the year. There are a few different routes you can take, with varying levels of difficulty. While we’re all for choosing your own adventure, we’d recommend taking a tamer path this time of year since it might still be a little icy.
Here’s everything you need to know about hiking Mount Yamnuksa East Ridge towards Raven’s End.
What To Expect
Despite the challenge, this hike is a pretty popular route thanks to its proximity to Calgary. So if you want to beat the crowds, there’s no better time to go.
Beginning at the parking lot, you’ll start on a wide trail that crosses a gravel road and then climbs for about 800 m before reaching a Y-junction. If you turn left, you’ll find the West Col Trail and Climbers Access Trail. Keep right for the East Ridge Trail.
This path maintains a gentler grade without sacrificing any scenic viewpoints. The trail eventually winds up at the Raven’s End checkpoint. You’ll know you’re there from the sign. Here’s where things can get tricky.
This is a great spot to enjoy the views before turning back the way you came. Especially if conditions are still icy and slick.
The route ahead of Raven’s End is not for the faint of heart, and from the sounds of it, we’d say you’re best avoiding it. The pathway turns into a lot of scrambling, and people have reported getting lost or gravely injured on this path.
If you’re really hankering for access to the summit of Mt. Yamnuska, it’s generally advised to take the West Col Trail (left at the fork) which is far more straightforward with less exposure.
Oh, and note that there are many trails weaving up and down the mountain, so please do not throw rocks over the edge. You wouldn’t want to hit anyone!
Be Prepared
The out-and-back Yamnuska East Ridge trail to Raven’s End comes in at a total of 7.2 km and is generally considered a challenging route. Of course, experienced hikers will probably laugh and tell us how easy it is compared to other famous hikes in the Rockies. We get it.
Nonetheless, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys down below. If you’re looking to kick off the spring hiking season with a bang, you can’t do much better than this.
As always, make sure to check the Alberta Parks website for the most up-to-date conditions and advisories. Dress in layers, wear appropriate footwear, and bring lots of water and snacks. Keep an eye out for wildlife, too.
Happy trails Calgary, enjoy the sunshine!
Where: Yamnuska Trailhead, Bighorn No. 8, Alta. T0L 2C0
Distance: 7.2 km
Difficulty: Hard
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