If you’re looking for a breathtaking and challenging day hike in Kananaskis then Wasootch Ridge is a great option. From the outskirts of Calgary, you can get to the Wasootch Ridge parking lot in just under an hour if the highway isn’t too crowded.
Wasootch Ridge is one of the best hikes in Kananaskis if you ask us. We love that you can get amazing views throughout the entire hike. Even though it’s not one of the easy hikes in Kananaskis it’s definitely one of the best ones. So enjoy your hike up Wasootch Ridge!
Wasootch Ridge is your typical in and out hike. Most hikes in Kananaskis are in and outs so this one is no different. It’s a steep incline right from the beginning just like Vision Quest near Nordegg (one of our favorite hikes in the province). But once you get past the first bit of incline you start to walk along the ridges for the rest of the hike.
It does end up feeling like you’re on a rollercoaster by the end of it with all the ups and downs along the ridge. Luckily, even though you are in the trees, it is very open and you’ll have views for days. There are expansive views of Wasootch Creek and up and down the Kananaskis Valley.
The initial climb and ridge walk isn’t that difficult but we would definitely rate it as a moderate hike due to the incline and length of the hike. It is a rewarding hike and very enjoyable since it is basically open for the majority of the hike.
Practical information about Wasootch Ridge
Distance: 15.4 km return / 9.56 miles return
Elevation: 1451 m / 4761 ft. elevation gain
Type: Out and back
Length: 4.5-6.5 hours return to the furthest peak.
Difficulty: Moderate up until the cairn, then the scramble to the summit is difficult.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Other related posts
- 5 Amazing Hikes in Kananaskis Country You Must Do
- 3 Hikes Near Bragg Creek That Make an Epic Day Trip
- How to hike Chester Lake Trail – Kananaskis
- Jumpingpound Summit Trail – Moderate Day Hike Near Brag Creek
- Vision Quest – Adventurous Day Hike Near Nordegg
Why Wasootch Ridge is a breathtaking day hike in Kananaskis
Most people end up hiking Wasootch ridge until they get to the cairn which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. It is a good turn back point because it offers almost the same views as it would if you scramble to the top of Wasootch peak but without having to do all the technical scrambling.
There are still a few tricky parts to get to the cairn but nothing extremely crazy. The majority of the ridge walk is not exposed at all and the ups and downs are relatively mellow so it can be a very relaxing and enjoyable hike if you have the time.
Fun fact: Hiking in Kananaskis was the first time Jo had ever been exposed to hiking EVER. Denmark isn’t really know for it’s hiking unlike the Rockies.
Anywways, back to the point! The panoramic views definitely make it worthwhile so there’s no problem with taking breaks every so often along Wasootch ridge and admiring the views. The cairn is also very easy to spot and the trail is easy to follow so you shouldn’t have too many problems navigating your way up and down the mountain.
Wasootch Ridge Summit Climb
If you are an experienced hiker and enjoy hiking over scree and scrambling then make sure you try and make it to the summit! Once you get past the cairn, you will continue towards the last peak along the side of the mountain until your final push up. It is challenging and does take some time but it’s super rewarding!
We would highly recommend hiking in Kananaskis during the summer months due to the amount of snow that can accumulate. We recommend going with a group of people who are also comfortable scrambling up through scree, especially since the last part is not for everyone.
We managed to summit Wasootch peak but it was difficult with a few tricky spots. So be well prepared and add an extra hour and a half return from the cairn.
If you want a more easy hike in the Kananaskis, check out Chester Lake Trail!
Here’s a map of the beginning of the trail
Camping in Kananaskis
So the good news is that there is a camping in Kananaskis but there is only one option with an actual campsite in the area and it may be full. Otherwise you can try Barrier Lake which isn’t a campground but a good last resort if you need somewhere to stay.
Eau Claire campground
Thankfully, Eau Claire is only 15 minutes away from the Wasootch Ridge parking lot.
Eau Claire Campground has 51 spots and costs $29 a night which isn’t too bad. If you’re going with multiple cars, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to drop off a car at Eau Claire and then commute to Wasootch. That way it will most likely guarantee you a spot before you go do the hike. Especially during the summer, hiking in Kananaskis gets extremely busy.
Barrier Lake camping
So basically throughout the day lots of tourists and locals with go visit Barrier Lake and it’s also a popular starting meet up point for people hiking in Kananaskis. So there will be lots of cars and people but it quiets down in the evening.
Once you finish Wasootch Ridge you can drive back toward Barrier Lake and find a spot to stay the night. As long as you don’t sleep in too late or make a mess no one should disturb you. You’re basically boon-docking for the night. So if can sleep in your van it would definitely be better, otherwise just find a quiet spot where you can stay for the night.
How to get to Wasootch Ridge
From anywhere in Calgary
- It’s an hour drive from Calgary to the Wasootch Ridge trail parking lot.
- The directions can be found here.
- Stop at Barrier Lake before hand and admire the beauty of it.
From anywhere in Edmonton
- It’s just under a 4 hour drive from Edmonton to Wasootch Ridge.
- The directions can be found here.
The turnoff for Wasootch Ridge is just passed Barrier Lake on the left-hand side. The turnoff is easy to see and the google directions work well for this hike so use them! =)
It is a fairly easy trailhead to find too so don’t worry about that. The trailhead is located on the east side of the parking lot just past a few picnic tables and hidden by a screen of pine trees. You will see the Wasootch Creek sign, which isn’t where the hike starts. You have to go left from there and you will see the path going into the trees.
Before you go
The first thing you should do before you go is to check if the trail is open and if there are any warnings on it. Since so many factors come into play when hiking in this area and altitude.
We do recommend doing this hike in the later months of summer like July, August, and September. Hiking in Kananaskis can be a little tricky predicting the weather and snow conditions. Especially, since it’s a bit of a tricky hike it is nice to have the weather in your favor.
DO NOT GO during bad weather. You’re very exposed on this hike and if a thunderstorm starts this could be very dangerous if not life-threatening for you. Sorry to be a downer, but as we always say: “Safety first”!
We would also recommend you to tell someone about your plans, just in case something were to happen. Better safe than sorry! Especially since there may be limited to no reception while you’re out on the hike. We had reception at the summit but you may not be as lucky.
You can check the recent comments about the Wasootch trail. If people see wildlife on the path they will likely put an update for the Wasootch Creek area. In case the trail is closed, you can try out an easy day hike in Kananaskis such as Chester Lake Trail or a moderate one like Jumpingpound Summit Trail.
What to bring
This is a fairly long hike and can take up to 6.5 hours to do (if not more) so bring enough of what you need and limit what you don’t need. The weather changes quickly up there so maybe it’s safe to bring a light jacket and extra socks even on a warm day. You just never know in the Rockies.
So bring:
- Lots of water! It’s a long hike and you’re exposed to the sun all day.
- A camelbak is a great option too if you’re looking for something to hold a lot of water.
- Food and lots of it.
- Sunscreen if it’s sunny out! Or even if it’s just warm and cloudy bring some.
- Bear spray. And make sure you know how to use it! It’s bear country!
- Warm clothes if it’s cold! Remember that the weather can change quickly in Nordegg.
- Walking sticks might also be a good idea (they could save your knees).
- Also this is a great list of hiking gear that you may need on a hike!
Other related posts
- 3 Hikes Near Bragg Creek That Make an Epic Day Trip
- How to hike Chester Lake Trail – Kananaskis
- Jumpingpound Summit Trail – Moderate Day Hike Near Brag Creek
- Black Rock Mountain – Remote Day Hike near Calgary
- Hiking Checklist
Other useful info
- This hike is very close to Barrier Lake, so stop and enjoy the views after the hike. You might also want to dip your feet and calves in the ice-cold water. It’s great for recovering!
- Wasootch Ridge is dog-friendly up to the cairn.
- Kananaskis is known for hiking so there are tons of other awesome options as well. if you love this one we have a few more hike we recommend in the area.
We hope you enjoy Wasootch Ridge and its beautiful views as much as we did! Enjoy and stay safe out there!
Once you’ve done the hike, please let us know in the comments below what you think of it! Or if you make it to the real summit and how hard you found it. Jo said it was one of the scariest summit scrambles she’s ever done! 😉
Have fun!
Dom & Jo
Red White Adventures
Love it? Share it!
Taylor Deer says
Wow! Your photos are incredible! I also love how you’re very descriptive and honest about these hikes. I think that helps so many. Also did you feel that your knees were bothering you after the hike?
redwhiteadventures says
Thank you! Honestly, we had to pick between 200 images for this post – the hike was just so incredible (and long, haha). Yes, both Dom’s knees and my knees were pretty sore after the hike, especially the last little part is very steep. But our knees are always sore so I’m not sure how much it helps. It lasted for a day or two and they were back to normal 🙂
– Jo
Catherine @ To & Fro Fam says
Oh my goodness, the views ARE breathtaking! I’d love to take this hike. I’m hoping to go to Alberta sooner rather than later so pinning this on my Canada board!
redwhiteadventures says
Yes Wasootch Ridge is one of our favourites! Especially since it’s so close to Calgary, and the views in the Rocky’s are something else.
– Jo
Eleanor Rickard says
What a gorgeous hike, with breathtaking views!
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Eleanor,
It sure is! We love it here and are happy to be back in Canada!
– Dom
Francesca says
Wow! The Wasootch Ridge summit climb looks gorgeous but too intense for me. I think the Chester Lake Trail would be more my style.
redwhiteadventures says
It is quite intense – especially if you go to the summit! Chester Lake is a great alternative! It has a bit of an incline but it’s not too step and not dangerous at any point. It’s a perfect hike for a relaxed afternoon 🙂
– Jo
Anna says
You’re definitely right, this is breathtaking!! Thank you so much for sharing this with us! I can’t stop taking a look at all these pictures! The views are just incredible!
Happy Thursday Cutie!
redwhiteadventures says
Thanks so much, Anna! You’re the sweetest 🙂 I’m glad you like it! Come visit one day soon!
– Jo xx
Razena says
I have not had many opportunities for hiking over the past decade but this is one I’d have to add to my Canada bucket list. The views look spectacular from every single place you stopped.
redwhiteadventures says
I’m sorry to hear that! I hope you get back out on the path soon 🙂 And that one day you get to experience this incredible hike. It’s definitely one of the best ones I’ve ever done! Have a great day!
– Jo
Lindz says
This hike sounds amazing! I’m so sad I missed out on it when I was in Alberta last. I’ll have to fix that and head back to tackle it!
redwhiteadventures says
It’s so good! Definitely something to add to your bucket list for next time you get here 😉
– Jo
Manavi says
Oh my god, the views are just amazing! I’m not much of a hiker but a sucker for such views 🙂
redwhiteadventures says
It’s so rewarding once you get to the top! 🙂 luckily there are many other ways to enjoy pretty views than just by hiking!
– Jo
Craige Hardel says
This is awesome. Would love to take a trip there one day and hike
redwhiteadventures says
It is! If you get the opportunity you definitely should 🙂
– Jo
Ashli Ferguson says
This looks like a really beautiful trip / hike! I never go hiking but maybe I need to!
Quin Cl says
Wow, that one is really breathtaking! I am really awestruck with these photos making me want to go hiking again soon.
redwhiteadventures says
Thank you! I hope you get out there soon 🙂
– Jo
Francisco says
Such beautiful photos! Makes me want to get out and about 🙂
redwhiteadventures says
You definitely should 😉 Enjoy!
– Jo
Haley says
These photos are stunnung. I’ve never heard of Wasootch Ridge.
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Haley,
It’s a great hike and close to Calgary so totally worth doing! 🙂
– Dom
JM de Guzman says
Such a beautiful hiking trip with awesome views. I am excited to move to Canada and see something similar to this.
Josy A says
Oooh this hike looks fantastic!! We have not explored the Kananaskis area yet, I really need to get out there. Those views look totally worth the effort!
p.s. You commented that your knees feel sore after hikes. Have you tried using hiking poles. I have found they make a massive difference on steep hikes like this. I can hike for longer before getting jelly legs.
redwhiteadventures says
Hi Josy, thanks for stopping by! Yes, you should totally explore the Kananaskis area 🙂 It’s so beautiful and way less touristy than Banff and Canmore.
No, actually none of us have been using poles before. Maybe it’s time to try it out! Thanks for the tip!
– Jo
Sparky Hazard says
Wow, that scenery is really breathtaking. We don’t spend nearly enough time in Canada, but on our next trek up, we will have to go check out Wasooch Ridge with our camera equipment. I especially love your photo with the rainbow in the background, it’s a beautiful shot.
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Sparky,
Oh yeah it’s a great place for videography and taking stunning pictures for sunrise and sunset. Thanks Sparky! The weather was wild and as soon as the storm passed we got a great shot of the rainbow!
– Dom
Andi says
The hiking in Canada looks amazing. Every time I see a story on hiking it looks like someplace I would want to be!
Christine says
Looks like such rewarding views! I’d love to try this hike one day – I’m dying to get up to that area sometime soon! Thanks for all the tips!
Danielle says
I love hiking! This looks like a great trail. Such a stunning view from the ridge! Great post
Neil Alvin says
Breathtaking indeed. I envy you guys. Hope to try that out someday.
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Neil,
Thanks for the comment! Feel free to email us if you’re planning to visit the Rocky’s and we’d gladly show you around!
– Jo
Janay says
First these photos are truly breathtakingly beautiful! I loved reading about your adventure and I wish I was there with you!
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Janay,
Feel free to come next time haha! Can always book a flight and come stay in the mountains for a while!
– Dom
Adventures with Shelby says
I’d love to spend some time traveling in Canada. This looks amazing!!
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Shelby,
You definitely have to come visit the mountains. If you do and we’re home next summer we will take you out on a few trails!
– Dom
Evan says
This post just lets me want to take out those hiking shoes and pack a small backpack and hit the nearest hiking trail. Love the scenery and photos.
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Even,
Appreciate your positive vibes! We love hiking and sharing awesome things to do wherever we go. Definitely dust off the hiking boots and get back out there.
– Dom
Hackytips says
In love with these views. Stunning! I have not been to this place but looks like it has a lot to offer.
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Hacky,
I’m sure every country and region has lots to offer but yes we’re fortunate with having the Rockies so close to home!
– Dom
Akriti says
Such amazing pictures! The hike looks like an absolute must when visiting Alberta!
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Akriti,
We’re building a list of awesome hikes to do around Banff and Kananaskis for future and current hikers in the region. I’m glad you like it and hopefully try a few of them when you come to Alberta.
– Dom
pooja Malkani says
wow! this is a gorgeous place! I would love to visit
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Pooja,
The Alberta Rocky’s are one of our favourite places in the world. That’s why we love to share them with everyone! 😉
– Jo
Elizabeth O says
Such amazing photographs. The view is spectacular.
redwhiteadventures says
Hey Elizabeth!
I’m glad you enjoyed the photos as much as we enjoyed taking them! 🙂 Next time you’ll have to be up there with us! 🙂
– Dom