500km: Grizzly Peak

June 10th 2024

Distance: 5.8km Elevation:891m

This hike is about 1hour and 15 min drive from Calgary. This hike appears short and easy but it is actually extremely steep. The trail is nice for most of the time with some sections being slippery with loose rocks. Despite its location this hike keeps its snow for a long time and should be attempted later in the spring/ summer. You get views nearly the whole hike, and at the top you can see the surrounding mountains and the Highway 40 valley area.

The trailhead

Find your way to Highway 40 South. Drive past the Fortress Gas Station. Drive past the “Grizzly Creek” parking lot. There is a pullout to the right with a information sign, it also has a bench on the cliff beside it. We like to park here. You can park on the northbound side near the trail off the highway. I would not recommend this as there is not a wide shoulder.

The hike

This hike starts steep and continues this way the whole hike. You begin in the forest until you are in an open area with a headwall. Climbing the headwall can be difficult but it is flagged and has many hand holds. Our two dogs did it no problem, but plan ahead if you are bringing dogs. The path slightly flattens while you turn around the mountain. The trail gets a little confusing on the back side as its been made into multiple trails. Basically you need to aim for the saddle ahead of you. You will cross a couple avalanche paths and this is where the snow holds in shoulder season. You then come to the back end of the saddle and it can be icy and slippery on the mud. Cresting the saddle you now turn left to look at the peak, snow holds here as well. Hike up the grassy side to reach the peak. It is quite windy but you are greeted with views of the valley below.

Dirt path going up to the saddle, avalanche gully to the left.

Almost near the end of the trail going back.

Rock path going down to the saddle from the peak.

Side Notes

This hike is in Kananaskis you need a pass, buy online.
This hike appears short and easy but it is very steep.
There is no cell service, plan accordingly.
Highway 40 is home to many Bighorn Sheep, slow down!
The Fortress gas station has the absolute best ice cream, for a reasonable price!!

MadMountainMegan