Ribbon Falls - Kananaskis Country - Hiking Alberta | Hiking with Barry Hiking with Barry Home » Blogs » Barry's blog » Ribbon Falls - Kananaskis Country - Hiking Alberta Ribbon Falls - Kananaskis Country - Hiking Alberta By Barry 11 / Jun / 2015 Ribbon Falls is an easily accessible, classic Kananaskis Country hike west of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The Ribbon Creek trail-head is easily accessible via Kananaskis Trail (Hwy 40), south from the TransCanada Highway west of Calgary , Alberta , Canada , to the exit for Nakiska Mountain Resort on Mount Allan . The Ribbon Creek Trail was seriously damaged by June 2013 flooding and one of the first trails resurrected because of its year round importance and popularity. Ribbon Creek Trail provides an important link to Ribbon Lake, Buller Pass , Guinn's Pass and the Lillian Lake / Galatea Lakes hiking trail complex. The hike to Ribbon Falls and beyond is long but relatively easy. The spectacular scenery, and proximity to cascading white water, makes it nearly impossible for photographers to justifiably maintain any manner of disciplined pace. The day tends to get extended.

The front end of the Ribbon Falls Trail was completely obliterated in the flood. A wooden platform bridge crosses Ribbon Creek at the parking area which was once the site of the logging and coal mining town of Kovach (aka Ribbon Crick). In it's heyday the pioneer hamlet boasted an assortment of tarpaper shacks and a small schoolhouse ancillary to the main school nearby at Seebe. The old Kovach schoolhouse was the original hostel before it was replaced by the current hostel. Scant remains of Kovach structures can still be found. A portion of Ribbon Creek trail was originally a forestry road called Ribbon Creek Road. The river is crossed on the obvious wooden platform bridge to take the road called Terrace Trail uphill to a junction with the Kovach Trail. All trail junctions for this hike are right turns. A left turn is a perfectly good hike somewhere else. The Kovach Trail leads to Kovach Link which crosses Ribbon Creek. There are map signs along the way at intersections. The Kananaskis Trail crew is busy replacing the temporary platform bridge with a more substantial version. There is a temporary plank crossing, with rope support, beneath and beside the new structure.

A short ascent on the opposite side of Ribbon Creek leads to the T junction for a LEFT turn leading to Ribbon Falls. The original Ribbon Creek trail was relatively flat and close to the edge of the creek, Major portions of that trail were carried away in the flood and the new trail has been sensibly constructed on higher ground which requires an initial ascent past the wizard stump. New trail is easy to navigate through spectacular forest with occasional log benches in alcoves along the way. A new bridge over a major drainage reveals the impact of flood water. The trail branch along North Ribbon Creek is fairly obvious prior to the confluence of North Ribbon Creek with Ribbon Creek where another new bridge provides an alarming view of the extent of flood damage at this location. The historic sawmill and logging exhibit originally at this location has been washed away. Much of the lumber for the original construction of Calgary came from this site. The extent of the damage is awe inspiring. Old and new trail sections provide close examination of the impact to the river course. The power of the flood water created major alterations to the previous landscape. The Ribbon Falls Trail gains subtle elevation as it tracks powerful, cascading, white water forced through narrow canyons.

The Ribbon Falls Trail is constrained by the flanks of Mount Kidd on the left and Mount Bogart to the right. The close proximity of these formidable mountains creates powerful sensory images and impressions. The air is charged with negative ionization. Spring greenery shines with new birth. High water from Spring runoff thunders through rock. Flowers are exploding from the ground and tiny runoffs create their own micro eco systems. Even dead and rotting logs sport explosive new growth of moss and delicate fungi. The images are piercing and memorable. Incredibly difficult hiking discipline is required to maintain forward progress in reasonable balance to alternatively being focused on absorbing the intricate beauty. The original sign for the bike access cut-off at the 5.7 KM (3⅝ mile) mark remains standing. The rack is gone and new trail replaces old. Most surrounding land has been washed away downstream. Our hike eventually delivers us through and past tiny Ribbon Falls Backcountry Campground and up to the roar of Ribbon Falls. The laced waterfall is accompanied by a host of tiny companions along the face of the South Peak of Mount Kidd. Reverberated sound and mist in the breeze soothe the soul.

There is time to sit down, and enjoy lunch, in the presence of natural magnificence. The following images provide a hint of inadequate testament to the perpetual and powerful assault on the senses. Lunch will be shared with 18-year-old Simon White who transitioned his physical presence many years ago. The heavy metal frame of his bench is badly warped from the force of flood water and debris but the anchors have held firm and his memory remains alive at this beautiful place and in the hearts and minds of friends and family. It feels good to relax within so much spiritual and natural presence. Ribbon Falls, to the best of my knowledge, is the largest, permanent waterfall in Kananaskis Country. What is seen from the bottom is only a small portion of the entire fall. The hike continues by gaining elevation on a crescent-shaped trail which ascends above the lower falls through forest and across scree slopes to the chains which provide assistance for the scramble past the head wall to Ribbon Lake. At the chains there is the opportunity to sit, rest and soak in the incredible views of surrounding mountains before regrouping for the return hike descent over scree slopes and active drainages to the base of Ribbon Falls.

Back at Ribbon Falls, it is expedient to stand beneath the downdraft from the waterfall where cooling mist and negative ionization combine with powerful sound and imagery to recharge the body and soak clothing for the energetic and cooling effect of evaporation which will moderate the impact of the return hike by the same route in the much warmer afternoon. The hike down Ribbon Creek is easier as elevation gently declines but no less spectacular with a seemingly endless barrage of powerful and scenic distractions. Stops on several occasions are made to collect and enjoy fresh and cold drinking water from Ribbon Creek using SteriPEN and Katadyne water purifiers. As the cascading water component gives way to more level forest, river and flood sections, late afternoon sun sets the brilliant green slopes of Mount Allan ablaze with light that beckons us home. The flood damage near the confluence of North Ribbon Creek with Ribbon Creek is difficult to fathom. Back at the bridge construction over Ribbon Creek, trail crews have left evidence of significant progress and gone home for the day. We may be the first people to cross the new plank surface. The temporary plank crossed many hours prior is now blocked off. The remaining 3.5 KM (2¼ mile) hike to the parking area is a route march.

This post is, by necessity and definition, predominantly a photo essay. There are not enough words. The hike is long and objectives are compromised by nearly perpetual, spectacular, scenic distraction. Bicycle access for the first 5.7 KM (3⅝ miles) is an alternative for expediency or Mount Bogart scramblers and rock climbers who are focused on different objectives. This hike is best done in earlier season when water flow is more spectacular. This day has been very close to perfect conditions. It is important to be well equipped with, food, water, and water purification capability. Proper footwear is important. The distance and rugged rocky sections demand good hiking footwear to reduce fatigue and prevent injury. For most, this is not a season opener. Be certain to tell someone your destination and exaggerate the amount of time you expect to use. Include your travel time and check in when you return. Specifications for the hike will be estimates. The hike to Ribbon Falls from Ribbon Creek Parking will be near 11 KM (6⅞ miles) each way given the revised approach and trail rerouting.

Pre-flood elevation differential is documented in the Kananaskis Country Trail Guide, 4th Edition, Volume 1, as 311 m (1,020 ft) to a high point of 1,814 m (5,950 ft). The net elevations remain the same but gross elevation gain and loss have increased over the distance in the new trail configuration, so it is wise to include the differential in expectation planning. The jaunt past Ribbon Falls to the chains will add a bit. Distance hiked is estimated near 25 KM on this day. Nothing a good soak in hot water with baking soda and Epsom salts won't fix. Photographs for this long-day, amazing hike to Ribbon Falls were captured in Kananaskis Country on June 10, 2015 west of Calgary , Alberta , Canada . Kudos to the Kananaskis Country Trail Crews and volunteers from the Friends of Kananaskis Country who seized and executed the initiative to rebuild this important trail. You did an incredibly good job within nearly impossible circumstances. Thousands are, and more thousands will be, forever grateful. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.

Let us not forget the incredible planning, back office and administrative contribution. Ribbon Falls near Kananaskis, AB - a snowshoeing, hiking, cross country skiing and mountain biking trail Ribbon Falls near Kananaskis, AB Snowshoeing, Hiking, Cross Country Skiing, Mountain Biking Spring, Fall, Summer Elevation Gain: 311 m (1,020 ft). Note - time and distance are return. The trail to Ribbon Falls is an easy, enjoyable hike, passing through a deep canyon with several waterfalls. It is a very popular trail because of the gentle grade. It's suitable for families with small children and weekends are very busy. It is also the first leg of the trail to Ribbon Lake , Guinn's Pass and Buller Pass . Bikes are allowed on the first 3.5km but there are always some who bike all the way to the falls. The falls are very busy, but worth enduring the crowds. Along the way you will find numerous waterfalls (especially early in the season) and an abandoned logging camp. Directions: Ribbon Creek parking area in Kananaskis Country, just off the road to Kananaskis Village.

For other nearby trails click: Kananaskis, AB List of Similar (difficulty) Province Wide Trails: Please check the bottom of the Description (above left; click) for the author's written directions.

Post a Review Please Sign-In or Register for free in order to post reviews Instructions: (a) Click Wiki Edit This Page to get placed in edit mode (b) When finished, your update is available to view as draft (click wiki update pending in trail to see draft) * note: editors are notified and must approve the change Posted By: ELavigne - Fri Jul 08 03:50:41 UTC 2016 Not Rated Question Can you recommend some nice day hikes in K Country, Banff, or south of Calgary that have water for dogs?ANSWERS are in this forum: Hikes with dogs By Posted By: lrawleigh - Sun Mar 22 21:24:55 UTC 2015 Not Rated Question Any idea if this trail has been fixed after the 2013 floods?ANSWERS are in this forum: Ribbon falls trail By Posted By: natb302 - Mon Jul 07 17:29:51 UTC 2014 Not Rated Question Hello, I can't remember exactly what the cliff is like... can someone tell me if dogs can climb up the 2 very steep sections?

I do a lot of ridges and my dogs are fairly agile but I'm always cautious to check it out before we leave. They are medium size dogs and wear harnesses which is helpful at times to help them up with steep or narrow sections. Thank you. ANSWERS are in this forum: Ribbon Lake Cliff By Posted By: dmack011 - Wed Aug 15 19:10:11 UTC 2012 Not Rated Question How long of a hike is it from the parking lot(by the village) to Ribbon Falls ? Then Ribbon Falls to Galatea ? DaveANSWERS are in this forum: Ribbon Creek Trail By Posted By: CanadianAce - Mon Aug 22 21:21:14 UTC 2011 Upside Easy hike up to the falls. Beautiful waterfall and sceanery along the way. Ribbon Falls campground is very nice. It has two out houses, group eatting area with two firepits, 4 picnic tables, 10 tent pads/sites, and 8 lockable storage lockers (bring your own lock). Downside Crazy busy trail. Must have passed over 80 different people in the two days we were up there.

Some people ride their bikes up to the falls even though you are not allowed to. Out houses could use some cleaning at the Falls Campground. Comment It was a nice hike, and I will likely take my son with me next time. If you want a great view of the falls just hike another 25m or so past the bench at the lookout. You can see the cascading falls above this way. I suggest hiking up to the "chains" if you want a great view of the valley. I didn't go up the chains, but lots of others did. The chains are not for the faint of heart or those who are scared of heights at all. I would do them with a harness though. By Posted By: mlarocque - Mon Aug 08 04:39:18 UTC 2011 Upside Nice views and easy hike Downside Dogs are ok to go up to the Falls past that i would not recommend from personal experience...i had a hard time getting my dog down after his paws were peeled apart by the rocks up there.

Also the Ranger took over a hour to get there and by then we had already gotten him to the bottom and instead of asking if he was ok he tried to intimidate us by telling us he could give us a fine if the dog wasnt leashed..which he was and i told him that. By Posted By: longleggedhiker - Tue Jan 11 20:41:01 UTC 2011 Upside A fairly easy 17 km return hike to the largest and most spectacular waterfall in Kananskis Country. On your way to the falls you will enjoy the scenery of this spectacular valley hemmed in by cliffs as well as the many smaller waterfalls along the way. Downside This is definitley one of the most popular hikes in all of Kananskis Country. From mid-June until Labor Day, the trail is quite crowded, especially on weekends. If you can visit during the week, do it! Or come after Labor Day and enjoy the fall colors as well! Comment This is definitley an essential hike for anyone who is in the area. You will enjoy every minute of the day!

If time is short or if you want to spend more time sitting arround at the falls and you are not staying overnight, you might want to consider biking to then end of the old road. Bike racks are provided. This will cut out 8 km (4 km one way) of hiking which will definitley speed things up. It is at the point where the bikeable section ends where the scenery really gets spectacular anyway! By Posted By: Sonja23 - Fri Oct 22 15:54:43 UTC 2010 Upside Great relaxing hike with beautiful views of the river and then the falls, wide trail for most of the way, stroller friend, bike friendly Downside busy Comment I always enjoy going to Ribbon Falls and then Ribbon Lake By Posted By: mark3107 - Sun Sep 26 02:28:26 UTC 2010 Upside Easy hike up to the falls along double track for the first 4 km which is open to bikes, then the next 4.5 km up to the Falls is on single track with not much elevation gain. Downside unable to get to ribbon lake....Not dog friendly.....

unable to negotiate the cliffs with the dog. Comment Definately more than the 11 km as stated..... from the parking lot up to the cliffs and back 19.45km. By Posted By: mitcht - Mon Dec 29 03:12:58 UTC 2008 Upside Lots of smaller sights along the way and beautiful scenery near the end. Downside As expected from a course with minor elevation change (relative to its length), there isn't a great overview at the end (at the falls, at least). Comment I really enjoyed this course though it was a bit tiring for the length. Make sure to not to start this one too late in the afternoon, especially if it's a crowded weekend. By Posted By: MChaisson - Mon Sep 01 17:44:20 UTC 2008 Not Rated Upside Fairly level trail so it is great for a family or a group of beginners. Great scenery.

Downside Not the trails fault but we hiked to the chains the evening of our arrival to have a look with every intention of returning in the morning to head up to the lake and Guinns pas only to have 30cm of snow fall over night. Scratch that idea... Comment All in all a great trail and we will do it again in July of next year in hopes of avoiding snow....ahhh summer in the Rockies. By Posted By: zohariel - Tue May 27 02:20:47 UTC 2008 Upside Pretty easy trail Downside Camping on long weekend last year brought nothing but rain, then 2 feet of snow literally overnight! Still fun though...... Comment Its a nice hike, great if you want an easy day outside, great for picnics! There's a couple great spots to jump in the water, with maybe 12 foot "cliffs", but only on a hot day since the water is absolutely FREEZING! Really refreshing though. If you can make it to the lake, its a longer and harder hike, but very much worth it.

By Posted By: MyfanwySwansea - Mon May 26 01:07:28 UTC 2008 Upside This was the second walk I have ever done and I found it easy and really enjoyable. It is great for a family, however, it must be said that you should be in good physical shape to do the climb. Signage on site says it's 7 kms up to the falls. Excellent picnic spot at the top and spots along the way. Downside None. Comment I'll definitely do it again. By Posted By: Hermanater - Thu Nov 01 18:42:08 UTC 2007 Upside I liked the fact that there was not much elevation gain or challenges. This allows the trail to be used by most people. Downside None really Comment Only tough part for some is the length. Nice falls at the end. Will try the lake next time.

By Posted By: ovanderkooi - Mon Jun 04 01:39:48 UTC 2007 Upside Great falls and worthwhile climb to Ribbon Lake Downside Very long flat hike-in Comment Nice easy day hike By Posted By: sdecarie - Sun Aug 13 18:54:04 UTC 2006 Upside It's a great walk of about 9km each way with only 400 meters of elevation change. We arrived at falls almost precisely 24 hours after "I do" Downside There are many open views it is a lenghty walk Comment It's a great relatively easy hike but it can be crowded on long weekends. Ribbon Fall | World Waterfall Database CATALOGED This waterfall has been surveyed, mapped and measured in person by the World Waterfall Database. With a sheer drop of 1,612 feet Ribbon Fall is the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in the United States, and is among the tallest sheer waterfalls on the planet.

Ribbon Creek drains an area of about 4 square miles immediately to the west of El Capitan, the collective waters of which intersect Yosemite Valley about 3,000 feet above the valley floor. As the creek runs off the edge of the valley, it carries down a slightly corkscrew-shaped plain of rock which causes the falls to twist off axis and fall to the right of its original course. The stream stays in contact with the cliff face for perhaps the first 200-300 vertical feet of the falls, and then free-falls for over one thousand feet before it sprays onto a steep skirt of the cliff face and veils the final distance to the bottom of the cliff. This contact with the cliff disqualifies Ribbon Fall from being considered a truly free-falling waterfall in that it does retain some contact with the cliff face, however the fall is entirely uninterrupted (i.e. there are no pools or pauses in the fall), so it is still appropriate to consider it to be the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in the country.

Ribbon Fall occupies a deep alcove directly to the west of the massive granite monolith El Capitan and because the falls cannot be easily seen from many of the signature views around Yosemite Valley, they are not regarded nearly as highly as Yosemite Falls or - especially - Bridalveil Fall which is situated directly across the valley. But also because Ribbon Creek drains from such a small area, it retains a consistent flow for only about half of the year, usually peaking in volume between mid April and mid May, and then quickly diminishing and running completely dry by July at the latest in most years (if not earlier). Seasonal Discharge This waterfall occurs along a stream that is known to vary greatly in volume and as a result may not flow consistently year round or may dry out completely during certain periods. HISTORY AND NAMES Also Known as: Lung-yo to-co-ya, Pigeon Creek Fall, Virgins Tears Ribbon Fall is the Official name of this waterfall Lafayette Bunnell reports the Native American name for Ribbon Fall to be Lung-yo-to-co-ya, which literally means "Pigeon Basket", likely an homage to bird nests which could be found in the vicinity of the falls.

Because of this native title, Bunnell attempted to apply the name Pigeon Creek Fall. Later, the falls were commonly known as Virgin's Tears as a somewhat tasteless comparative to neighboring Bridalveil Fall. At a further later date James Hutchings interpreted the name of the fall to mean along the lines of "the graceful and slender one", and it is said to be this interpretation which inspired the name Ribbon Fall (again using the singular form on the suffix). Our thoughts Ribbon Fall isn't even remotely the main attraction in Yosemite Valley - or even one of the many main attractions for that matter. But Ribbon Fall is also a very striking waterfall when it's flowing and if its flowing well (as seen in some of the recent years when Yosemite has received well above average snowpack) it can be downright spectacular. If you plan on visiting Yosemite before July, do not pass up the opportunity to seek out this waterfall - just be prepared for a less than stellar performance unless you time your visit perfectly with the peak of snow melt season. Location and directions Ribbon Fall is located directly west of El Capitan on the north wall of Yosemite Valley within Yosemite National Park.

The best views of the falls are from Southside Drive about 1/5 of a mile east of the junction with the Wawona Road at a large pullout where both Ribbon Fall and Bridalveil Fall can be seen. Ribbon Fall can also be easily seen from Crocker Point, Dewey Point and can partially be seen from Valley View along Northside Drive. Ribbon Falls (Yosemite National Park, California, USA) [Back to top] INTRODUCTION Ribbon Falls (or Ribbon Fall as some people call it) is that slender waterfall opposite Yosemite Valley from Bridalveil Fall . I get the feeling that it's for this reason that it's often overlooked or unnoticed by most visitors, which is a testament to the incredible beauty of this area. I even made the mistake of thinking it was Yosemite Falls on my first trip here with Julie on Memorial Day in 1999. Hey, you gotta learn from your mistakes in order to grow, right? :) At 1612ft, this towering, free-falling waterfall is said to be amongst the highest free-leaping waterfalls in the United States.

You'd think that with such a gaudy height, this waterfall would get a little more attention and love than it currently gets, but in Yosemite National Park, it's hard for a waterfall to stand out as there are so many beautiful ones all packed in Yosemite Valley. Further inhibiting its notoriety is that it is a seasonal waterfall. Generally, its snow-fed watershed depletes by mid Summer. However, we've seen high snow pack years where it remained flowing pretty deep into late June and even July as well as low snow pack years where it was almost a trickle by June. We were able to view this waterfall from a distance, but to my knowledge, there is no formal trail leading to its base. Now with that said, I did see a very interesting photo from its base in a once out of print Yosemite book , but I suspect the photographer did some off-trail scrambling and hiking to attain that view. PHOTO JOURNAL Ribbon Falls together with El Capitan This is the Valley View Lookout by the Merced River in wide angle. Do you notice Ribbon Falls on the far left?

Even though you can't see Ribbon Falls from here, the Tunnel View lookout of Yosemite Valley is one of the most impressionable and iconic spots to take photos in the park The falls seen from the Southside Drive in late May 2002 More contextual view of the falls in late May 2002 The falls together with El Capitan More recent (June 2011) Valley View Lookout photo in wide angle, except this wasn't quite as wide-angle as the lens I used back in 2004 An old photo of the falls from the base of Bridalveil Fall back in 1999 VIDEOS OF THE FALLS Bottom up sweep of the falls then zooming out to show its context with El Cap Left to right sweep starting with Ribbon Falls then sweeping up from the bottom to the top of Bridalveil Fall [Back to top] DRIVING DIRECTIONS Ribbon Falls sits opposite the mouth of Yosemite Valley from Bridalveil Fall . To get to Yosemite Valley from Los Angeles , we tend to drive north on the I-5, then take the Hwy 99 through Central Valley to Fresno .

Then, we follow the Hwy 41 through towns like Coarsegold , Oakhurst , Fish Camp , etc. through the Yosemite South Entrance before continuing along the Hwy 41 all the way to Yosemite Valley. This drive would typically take us in the neighborhood of 6 hours depending on traffic and where in LA we were driving from. Once in the valley, in our minds, the best spot to view the falls is from the Southside Drive near signpost V14. There are real long pullouts on both sides of the one-way road here so there's ample space to pull over and walk around to get the most unobstructed view possible. We were also able to photograph both El Capitan and the waterfall together from this spot. In addition, it's also possible to see this waterfall from the base of Bridalveil Fall (at the end of the walk leaving the car park at signpost W1). All you have to do is turn around with your back facing Bridalveil Fall and look across the valley. Finally, we were also able to see part of the falls from the Valley View Lookout (signpost V11 on the Northside Drive).

However, we needed a wide angle lens in order to capture both Bridalveil Fall and Ribbon Falls together in one photograph. Hike to Ribbon Falls , Canada Hike to Ribbon Falls Added by Tory Yont This is an amazing day hike in Kananaskis Country about an hour outside of Calgary, Alberta. It follows Ribbon Creek up the mountain until you reach the stunning Ribbon Falls. Ribbon Creek trail is accessible via Highway 40 at the turn off for Nakiska Mountain Resort. From there take a left at Centennial Drive and then a right onto Ribbon Creek Road. The hike begins at the far end of the Ribbon Creek Trailhead parking lot. There is an old coal mining cart at the start. There is also washrooms available in the parking lot area before you begin. To begin the hike follow the sign that says "Ribbon Creek Trail". You will follow this trail for the next 10km until you reach Ribbon Falls. The trail follows Ribbon Creek up the mountain to the falls. The trail follows the river bank for the most part, but also goes through the forest. As you make your way to Ribbon Falls there is a few mini waterfalls along the way to stop and admire.

Once you reach the falls you can sit and enjoy your packed lunch. There is also tenting sites available at Ribbon Falls Backcountry Campground close to the falls for those you want to stay the night and tackle the surrounding trails.Firewood is provided at the campground. For the more adventurous hikers you can continue 2km up the mountain to Ribbon Lake. This portion of the hike requires use of the chains bolted into the side of the mountain. Getting to the lake is not recommended during the spring and winter months due to the snow at high elevations. Snowshoeing in the winter is available as well as mountain biking in the summer. However bikes are only allowed for the first 5.7km of the trail. I would give yourself about 6 hours to complete the hike, but it is doable in a little less time than that. The roundtrip is 20km, but if you go to Ribbon Lake it is about 22km.

Pack List For those who are only doing a day hike: Water Bottle Canmore and Kananaskis - Hiking Trails and Hiking Information, Canadian Rockies Barrier Lake Forestry Hiking Trails (2 Loops) Difficulty Rating: Light Distance: 2.3 km return Elevation gain: 10 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 12.3 km south at the U of C Kananaskis Field station parking lot. Description: Learn about soils, plant layers and forest management procedures. In world war II, this was the site of a Prisoner of War Camp. Prairie View Lookout Hiking Trail Difficulty Rating: Moderate Distance: 10 km return Elevation gain: 500 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 9 km. south at the Barrier Dam Day Use Area. Description: One of the most popular trails in the area because of its early season with excellent views.

Cross Barrier Dam where an uphill climb takes you past the powerline and up toward McConnell Ridge, utilizing switchbacks. With nearly continuous climbing through the trees, you will reach the ridge. The trail narrows and becomes steeper until you reach the top of the cliff. Baldy Pass - South Approach Hiking Trail Difficulty Rating: Moderate Distance: 7.4 km return Elevation gain: 570 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 14.7 km. south at the Baldy Pass trailhead parking lot (across the highway). Description: A short, scenic climb through a valley providing exceptional views of the foothills once you reach the pass. Centennial Ridge - North Approach Hiking Trail Difficulty Rating: Very Difficult Distance: 21 km return Elevation gain: 1400 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 7 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary and use Alpine Resort Haven exit. The trailhead parking lot is 1.25 km, just before the Resort.

Description: At the trailhead follow the road under the Skogan Pass power lines which swings west toward 2 creeks. After the first creek, turn left and follow the road - there are red markers on the south of the creek. It is an extremely steep road which climbs past several coal seams, but it eventually eases after gaining about 500 metres of elevation. The road ends near the treeline and a narrow trail takes you along the slopes of Mount Collembola. The trail continues up a dangerous grassy slope (Use Caution!) where eventually the precipice of Mount Lougheed can be enjoyed. The walk up to the summit of Mount Allan has some of the best views in the Rockies - from Mount Temple up near Lake Louise to the skyscrapers of Calgary. Karst Spring Mountain Biking / Hiking Trail Difficulty Rating: Light Time: 3 1/2 hours return Distance: 9.5 km return Elevation gain: 200 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 39 km south on the Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trail (Highway 742 - gravel road) which begins just past the Canmore Nordic Centre. Turn right 5 km.

to the Mount Shark parking lot, where you will find the trailhead. Description: This trail leads to Karst Spring where boulders and driftwood are covered with bright green moss. The gentle elevation gain makes this hike a favorite with families, and the cool air near Karst Spring is appreciated hot summer days. The first 3.6 km. are open to bicycles. Walking on the road leads you through the Mount Shark Trail System into the forest above Watridge Lake where a short descent puts you at the shore of this lake known for it's trout fishing (don't forget your licence). Then follow the boardwalk and climb the trail along the creek to where Karst Spring bursts out of a rock face. The spring drains from passageways between limestone layers of Shark Ridge creating a karst formation. Snow and rain water seep into cracks and dissolve the rock, creating tunnels from which streams begin. Buller Pass Hiking Trail Distance: 13.5 km return Elevation gain: 670 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km south on the Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trail (Highway 742 - gravel road) which begins just past the Canmore Nordic Gentre.

Turn right into the Buller Mountain day use area parking lot, where you will find the trailhead across the road. Description: This strenuous hike leads to an alpine pass at 2470 metres providing impressive views of the Ribbon Creek Valley. To get to the pass, you need comfortable hiking boots as well as being able to negotiate steep, rocky slopes. Bridged creeks, traces of an ancient forest fire, a beautiful waterfall that has carved out a circular pool in the bedrock and numerous caves and arches are some of the highlights of this hike. Grotto Canyon Hiking Trail Distance: 4 km return to the waterfall Elevation gain: 50 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 14 km east on Highway 1A towards Calgary and the Grotto Mountain trailhead is on the left side. Description: This trail leads up a creek bed into a narrow canyon of gray limestone walls. From the trailhead, go west along the powerline past the Baymag Plant and go right where the sign points into the woods. Follow the creek bed up to the fork at the end of the trail.

On the right branch, up 50 metres is a small waterfall, and the left branch continues up the creek bed to a wide valley with hoodoos. You'll want to give yourself extra time for this journey, perhaps another 1.5 hours. Bow Valley Provincial Park Hiking Trails Difficulty Rating: Light Time: 0.5 to 1 hour depending on the trail chosen Distance: 1.9 km to 2.5 km Elevation gain: none Location: From Canmore, drive 23 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary and use the Bow Valley Park exit. The park entrance is approximately 1 km. and the six trailheads are well marked. Description: Beaver ponds, birds, flowers and springs will delight everyone who ventures on these short relaxing walks. Galatea Creek Hiking Trail to Lillian Lake Difficulty Rating: Difficult Distance: 12.6 km return Elevation gain: 500 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 32 km. south at the Galatea Day Use area.

Description: The trail crosses Galatea Creek nine times, with a rock cliff along the river. For the more adventurous, try the 1.2 km, 200 metre elevation extra hike to the Lower Galatea Lake. There is a campground at Lillian Lake for those wishing to make this an overnight hike. Eau Claire Hiking Trail Loop Difficulty Rating: Light Distance: 1.5 km Elevation gain: 0 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 35 km. south at the Eau Claire Campground entrance. Description: This is a short interpretive loop through the valley bottom and along the river. Ribbon Falls Hiking / Mountain Biking Trail Difficulty Rating: Moderate Time: 7 hours return (hiking) Distance: 16.5 km return Elevation gain: 300 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 23 km.

south at the Ribbon Creek Day Use area near Kananaskis Village. Description: The trail follows along Ribbon Creek up a narrow valley to a view of Ribbon Falls. The medium grade and several waterfalls has made it a great hike for families, with the first 4 km open to mountain bikes. There is a campground for those wishing to make this an overnight hike. 2 hours further (1.8 km / 200 metre rise) is Ribbon Lake, which also has a campground. Note: This section is extremely strenuous with 3 chains that you must haul yourself up a cliff with. Centennial Ridge - South Approach Hiking Trail Difficulty Rating: Very Difficult Distance: 13.8 km return Elevation gain: 1350 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 23 km. south at the Ribbon Creek Day Use area near Kananaskis Village. Description: This trail offers some of the best views of any trail in this area.

Constructed by Calgary's Rocky Mountain Ramblers to celebrate Canada's Centennial in 1967, it's the highest maintained trail in Canada. At the sign in the Ribbon Creek parking lot, go north on Hidden Trail. After hiking about 200 meters, tum left and start the long climb to Centennial Ridge. The views are well worth it. Don't forget to bring your camera! Heart Creek Hiking Trail Distance: 4 km return Elevation gain: 100 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 14 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary and use the Heart Creek / Lac des Arcs exit. The trailhead is on the south side of Highway 1. Description: Hike this popular trail up Heart Creek to a nicely hidden waterfall. The trail crosses a treed slope and over a footbridge to a junction wher you turn right and follow the wide gravel path up the creek. You will cross the same creek on seven log bridges as the walls Mt. McGillivray on the right and Heart Mountain on the left slowly creep in on you until the cliff walls meet and you can hear the roar of a waterfall out of sight further up the canyon.

Chester Lake Elevation gain: 310 metres Location: Smith - Dorrien - Spray Trail (Hwy 742) at Chester Lake parking lot. Description: A 45 minutes drive from Canmore, this hike begins with a steep incline on old logging roads. After awhile, the trail flattens out and is surrounded my myriads of alpine flowers. The destination is a jade coloured lake in a fabulous mountain setting. Wedge Pond Hiking Trail Loop Difficulty Rating: Light Distance: 1 km Elevation gain: 10 metres Location: From Canmore, drive 35 km east on Highway 1 towards Calgary to the Highway 40 exit and drive south into Kananaskis Country. The trailhead is 30 km. south at the Wedge Pond Day Use Area parking lot. Description: A relaxing lakeshore trail with nice views. Grassi Lakes Hiking Trail

Question: In which country are the Ribbon Falls?
Answer: USA