Tryst Lake and Tryst Ridge

Tryst Lake with Tryst Ridge on the left.

Distance: 1.5 km one way to lake. 1km one way to ridge

Elevation: 350m to lake 100m to ridge

This short but steep trail deviates from the all popular Smutwood Peak and Tent Ridge. Taking you up to a beautiful alpine lake nestled among stunning mountains and larches. This hike appears family friendly and was easy for our dog. Head up the ridge for excellent views of the lake, and neighboring valleys.

Trailhead

From Calgary drive highway 1 to the highway 40. Turn onto highway 40. Follow until the gate or the right turn for Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. Turn right. Turn right again at the smith dorrien road sign. THIS IS A GRAVEL ROAD WITH WASH OUT AND POTHOLES, TAKE CARE. At signs for Mount Shark turn left. Head up the small gravel road, at the bend there is an unmarked parking lot. Park here. This is also where you park for smutwood peak and parking can be limited. There are no outhouses, or trash cans at the parking lot.

The hike

From the parking lot follow the flat path for 1.5km. As this is is the start for Smutwood Peak, you may be walking with others. Soon you will see a large pile of rocks and a stick on your right. Turn here. Follow the narrow path up the forest until you pop out in an avalanche gully. You do walk along side a creek for a short while, until it goes underground. Follow up the avalanche gully, it is steep and can be slippery. Tent ridge is to your right. Walk up the headwall, when you see larches it is close.

The flat path, leads to Smutwood Peak as well.

Heading up the forest slope to the lake.

The ridge

Prior to the lake there is a small path to the left, this path takes you up Tryst Ridge. It is steep but the path is easy to follow. Once cresting the ridge turn right on a well beaten path to follow the ridge. Through the larch forest you have views of Tent Ridge, Commonwealth Valley and the Spray Valley. We walked up to where there were no more trees, however it looks like you could scramble the small peak in front if you want.

Side Notes

Parking is limited, you could park ahead at the tent ridge lot.
This hike appears family friendly and dog friendly. Use your judgment.
Services are limited on the Smith Dorrien, be prepared.

MadMountainMegan