Wasootch Ridge is a favorite hike near Canmore in Kananaskis Country. This Kananaskis hike is straightforward to follow and gains quick elevation, then travels along a ridge that delivers spectacular views. The roadway below slowly evaporates from view on the ridge before a challenging scramble to the peak.
There is a scramble at the end of the ridge, which can be avoided, and the trail is plenty wide enough for the first 5km with no exposure. The result is a dog/kid-friendly hike that doesn’t need to be completed in its entirety to enjoy, as the views are great early on the trail. It also happens to be the first hike we ever completed in the Canadian Rockies!
Wasootch Ridge Key Stats
Length
13.4 km
Duration
3 – 7 hours
Elevation
931 m
Difficulty
Moderate
Trailhead
Wasootch Day Use Area
Hiking Wasootch Ridge Trail
Wasootch Ridge starts off hard at the beginning with a leg-burning climb right out of the parking lot. The parking lot is a little confusing as there are several trails through the woods leading up the ridge and a path along the creek. Head up through the woods near the beginning of the parking area in a southeast direction.
The trail through the woods is not technical, with plenty of traction on dirt, this section in the forest takes 20-30 minutes; depending on your fitness. Once out, you’ll be treated to some fantastic views of Barrier Lake to the North and Nakiska to the South.
The hike then continues along the ridge for several kilometers, where you’ll climb up and down a series of five “peaks.” Towards the final and tallest point, the ridge turns into a scramble.
The scramble is difficult with several moves that are high exposure. Its first technical move may be the most exposed, with a rock less than a meter wide and a tall rock wall on either side. This section of the trail should only be attempted by advanced hikers/scramblers. The vast majority of hikers either turn around before this point or at the beginning of the scramble.
The view above is towards the end of the scramble before the last few moves arrive at the final peak. Most hikers do not see this view.
In hindsight, I’ve researched that it is possible to avoid the scramble by descending the ridge on the and traversing before ascending for the peak again.
From here, it’s only the halfway point as you turn around and make your way back to the parking lot along the same trail. It is possible to descend the backside of the peak for a circuit, but the descent involves bushwacking and loose scree.
Past reviews discourage this route as it’s dangerous, a pain, and then ends with a long walk out of Wasootch Creek, so it’s best to return the way you came making Wasootch Ridge an out and back hike and not a loop.
Gear We Recommend
Many hikers will enjoy the security, comfort, and value in the Merrell Moab II. It’s a great beginner hiking boot.
Arc’teryx Cerium is our pick for the best down jacket. It’s incredibly light, and we bring it on almost every hike in the Rockies.
This nifty clip from Peak Design secures a camera to my backpack strap for easy reach. No more digging in the backpack!
20L feels like the ideal size for quick hikes and scrambles. We love the Nano from Gregory with a hydration reservoir.
There is not much cell service in the Canadian Rockies. In case of emergencies, we carry an emergency beacon with GPS.
What to wear hiking the Rockies
Wasootch Ridge Trail Duration
The trail is 15.4 km in length and has an elevation gain of 850 meters. You should expect a long hike day out. We spent around 7 hours on the trail and took time for photos and lunch with no rush to finish. It’s one of the best things to do in Kananaskis and the perfect place to unwind in nature.
How Hard Is Wasootch Ridge Trail?
Although AllTrails rates this as hard, we would put it slightly above moderate. The initial onset is very steep and will have your legs burning, but it’s a very moderate trail once past that. The other reason for a hard rating is the exposed scramble that can be avoided on the trail. We saw all ages of life on this trail.
When Can You Hike Wasootch Ridge?
Wasootch Ridge is a great trail to do all year round. This trail would be best between mid April and October, though I’ve seen photos in the winter, and the images are gorgeous. Just make sure you have gaiters, crampons, and poles if you decide to do a winter hike.
It receives a lot of sun exposure, and since it’s not as high as many other trails, it is one of the first peaks for the snow to melt. We hiked in early June, and the path was dry with only a patch or two of snow underneath a few trees. With a pair of microspikes, gaiters, and poles, you could easily handle this trail with a bit of snow in February or March, but you’ll have to pay attention to conditions.
How Popular Is Wasootch Ridge?
Being a hike close to Calgary, Wasootch Ridge is one of the most popular hikes in Kananaskis country, so I wouldn’t expect to have the trail to yourself. With that being said, it’s nothing like the more popular easy trails of the Bow Valley Parkway or some of the family friendly trails in Banff.
We hiked Wasootch Ridge on a beautiful weekend day and found a full parking lot. On the trail, it’s easy to find your space, but you’ll pass another group every so often. Families and people are walking their dogs on the trail. If you’d like a more crowd-free experience, head out on a midweek day!
Is Wasootch Ridge Family and Dog Friendly?
Most of the trail is moderate, but there is a steep climb up and down, as mentioned at the beginning. However, once you’re on the ridge, it’s a moderate hike.
Big dogs should handle the trail just fine, and it’s widespread to see dogs on the trail. Remember to bring a leash harness. It’s the law and proper trail etiquette.
Children above eight should be fine. We did see one family on the hike, but of course, every child is different, and you’ll know their fitness best.
A Pass is Needed to Hike in Kananaskis
Visitors are required to hold a Kananaskis Conservation Pass, which covers Kananaskis and the Bow Valley Corridor. This pass is separate from the National Parks Pass needed to visit Banff and the other national parks. Passes may be purchased online and are attached to a license plate number. Requirements are around vehicles and parking, not the individual. This includes parking at the Canmore Nordic Center or Grassi Lakes.
Pass Prices
- Daily Pass: $15 (registers one vehicle)
- Annual Pass: $90 (registers two cars)
A Guide to Understanding the Kananaskis Conservation Pass
Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies
- Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
- Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
- Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car: The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy.
- Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
- Hop On, Hop Off: This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!
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