A Hike with a View for Every Experience Level

August 06, 2018

Beginner:

Grassi Lakes – Located under Mount Lawrence Grassi in Canmore, Grassi is a well-trodden, family friendly hike. The trail has two route options, easy; which is a gravel access road with a gentle rising slope, and the difficult route; which takes you through the wooded trail with a steeper accent to the lake. Since the hike requires no experience or equipment, it is quite busy. To avoid the crowds, go early in the morning.

Length: 4km
Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 232m

Intermediate:

Read’s Tower - Incredible views of the Spray Lakes Reservoir await you atop Read’s Tower. There is the possibility of snow at the summit, especially if you continue on to summit Sparrowhawk Mountain (an extra 2-3 hours), so gaiters are recommended. This hike is not for the inexperienced, as there is some scrambling on the ridge (mostly scree).

Length: 6km
Estimated Duration: 4 hours
Elevation Gain: 646m

Advanced:

Smutwood Peak - Breathtaking views of the beautiful Mount Birdwood and Birdwood Lakes make this difficult hike worth the struggle. It is even more beautiful during the fall, when the larches are changing colours. While the trail isn’t overly steep, it is rated difficult due to its length. One thing to note is that this trail is known for bear encounters, so being bear aware is extremely important.

Length: 19km
Estimated Duration: 6-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 845m