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Where to Hike NOW in Kananaskis Country: Mist Ridge

The Opinionated Hikers on Patrol for You

Mist Ridge, south of Highwood Pass, is ready for you. Watch the Life section of the Calgary Herald, Thursday, July 1, for our field report. Or read Trip 35, page 188, in Where Locals Hike in the Canadian Rockies, the Premier Trails in Kananaskis Country, near Canmore and Calgary. You’ll encounter a few snow patches on the ascent to the ridgecrest. Atop the ridge, the snow is melting quickly and poses no obstacle. To complete a circuit, however, by descending from Rickert’s Pass (north end of Mist Ridge) into Mist Creek Valley, you will have to wade through snow drifts. There were four in our party, so it’s possible our post-hole tracks will remain evident and help guide you. Once you’re below, on the valley floor, you’ll leave the snow behind. But if you have any hesitation about your ability to routefind through deep snow, don’t pursue the circuit. Hike a round trip by staying on the ridgecrest: out and back. It’s a spectacular hike. Enjoy.

2 comments.

  1. That looks like one great place to go for a hike. Loving the pictures you post, so beautiful.

  2. Hi Nick, thanks for the encouragement. — Craig

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Hiking and camping in the wilderness can be dangerous. Experience and preparation reduce risk but will never eliminate it.

Information published in a book or on a website—regardless how authoritative—is not a substitute for common sense or sound judgment. Your safety is your responsibility. The unique details of your specific situation and the decisions you make at that time will determine the outcome.

When hiking, threats to your wellbeing are unpredictable; you must always be aware. In the backcountry, risk is subjective; you must gauge it for yourself. Away from civilization, small mistakes can have severe consequences; you must vigilantly prevent injury and avoid becoming disoriented.

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