June 19th 2024
Distance: 5.8km Elevation:355m
This hike is a 1 hour drive from Calgary. It is a great after or before work trail. It is a great shoulder season or winter hike, as the snow melts here very early. While everyone is heading to Banff or Kananaskis, the Waiparous area is less busy with hikers. You will see many OHV users, and hear the sound of guns as these activities are permitted in PLUZ land in Alberta.
The Trailhead
From Calgary find your way to Cochrane. Follow the Highway 1A until you see the turn for Highway 40 north. Follow the road through the Waiparous village. You will soon reach a turn, follow right to follow Highway 40. Immediately after the turn, it is your next left, there is a cattle gate and an info sign. Follow the Transalta Road, until you see signs for the “Ghost PLUZ” with a wide parking area and info sign on the right. Park here. There no toilets or garbage cans here.
The Hike
Starting out in the flat forest you will soon reach a forested hill. The hike begins to become more steep. You soon will have views of the mountains west of you. The path is wide but can be muddy and slick. You will eventually reach a ridge where the path flattens. We stopped here and turned around. However I have done the loop and you drop down the valley and walk down a gentle incline through the forest to reach the trailhead.
Side Notes
- This hike is in public land which you need to buy a a permit online.
- There is little cell service.
- The last road is gravel and can have a lot of potholes.
- Waiparous Village has no services. Your last stop should be Cochrane.
- In hunting season (September-November) wear bright colors and make noise to be visible to hunters. This hike is super close to the road so they probably won’t be around but its good to be cautious.
MadMountainMegan 
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