Prairie Mountain to Prairie Creek loop, Elbow Valley, Kananaskis

Description:

We’ll hike the brand new hiking trail up and over the popular Prairie Mountain (new switchback trail completed in the summer of 2023). A steady climb leads to breathtaking views of the front ranges, the Elbow River Valley, and the city of Calgary. We’ll loop down to connect to the Prairie Creek trail for a rolling, creekside finish.

Meet Place:

Allen Bill trailhead, Elbow Falls Trail (Hwy 66) Kananaskis

Directions:

This trailhead is about a 45-55 minute drive from Calgary.

1. Access Hwy. 66 from Hwy. 22 (Hwy. 22 becomes Hwy. 66) or from Hwy. 8 (Glenmore Trail West).
2. Follow Hwy. 66 into Kananaskis Country
3. Go past the Information Centre and watch for the “Allen Bill” sign.
4. The sign and parking are just past the Elbow River Crossing at the bottom of long, gradual hill.

Distance/Length:

Rated (INT), 10 km + 700 meters elevation gain: 5 hours hiking time

Carpool Option:

When possible, carpooling will be arranged from the meet place.