Are you heading out to Kananaskis Country this summer? The Highwood Ridge hike is a great option with spectacular panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. While the hike itself isn’t the easiest, with a bit of light scrambling, the reward from the ridge makes the effort totally worthwhile! Keep reading to find out more.
In the summer of 2023, my friend Donna and I ventured over to Kananaskis for the impressive Highwood Ridge hike. This was a special one for me, as I planned to spread my beloved Bernese Mountain dog’s ashes. Before Bella passed away, we would often go to the Rockies together. Her memory lives on in the mountain peaks. 🧡
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Highwood Ridge Trail Map (Kananaskis Country)
About the Highwood Ridge Hike
Location: Kananaskis Country, Alberta
Distance: 12.5 km out and back
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation: 730 metre elevation gain
Time: 4 – 5 hours
Family-Friendly: This would be a difficult hike/scramble for kids.
Dog-friendly: Yes, but dogs must remain on a leash.
Features: The Highwood Ridge hike features awe-inspiring views of Kananaskis Country and the surrounding Rocky Mountains, with a moderate to difficult climb that includes sections with light scrambling. On this trail, you’ll experience diverse landscapes including dense forest, alpine meadows, and rocky ridgelines — where panoramic vistas abound!
Directions to the Highwood Ridge Trailhead
If you’re coming from Calgary, take the Trans Canada Highway and exit at 118 toward Kananaskis Country. Continue on the Kananaskis Trail (Hwy 40) past the turnoff for Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, heading toward the Highwood Pass Day Use Area. You shouldn’t have any trouble locating the parking lot — it’s a popular spot, especially in the peak season, with Ptarmigan Cirque and Pocaterra Ridge starting from the same area.
Read next: Pocaterra Ridge Hike in Kananaskis Country
Highwood Ridge Hike — A Scenic Ridge Walk in Kananaskis Country
2023 was a big summer. Between backpacking in Northern Ontario and canoe tripping and backpacking in Yukon, I made Calgary my home base for several weeks. After living in the city for six years, I love the opportunity to return and visit with good friends like Donna. What better place to catch up than Kananaskis?
The Highwood Ridge hike starts off on a fairly gentle grade and becomes gradually steeper as you hike through the forest. But don’t worry, it won’t be long before you’re popping out above the treeline and trekking up toward Highwood Peak. Be prepared for loose scree and short scrambles, where you’ll need to use your hands. Make sure to turn around every so often, as the views just get better and better. I couldn’t stop snapping photos as we neared the peak, with Highway 40 on our left and an awe-inspiring mountain range to our right.
When you reach the top, take in the view of Grizzly Col to the north. At this point, hikers can continue down the saddle and back up to Grizzly Col or head down to Highwood Ridge. Donna and I opted for a gentler Highwood Ridge until reaching the second peak. That’s where I chose to spread Bella’s ashes to the wind. I can’t wait to visit again someday.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to Hiking in Tombstone Territorial Park
What to Bring for Kananaskis Hikes
When hiking in Kananaskis, it’s important to bring hiking essentials. I carried my Osprey Hikelite 18 pack with a rain jacket, water bladder, a few snacks, and safety gear like a first aid kit and sunscreen. On hot summer days, I tend to pack hydration tablets as well. If you’re considering trekking poles, I suggest tossing them in your backpack (just in case). Hiking boots offered plenty of support for me on these rocky trails.
Read next: Yates Mountain via Prairie View Trail in Kananaskis
Wildlife in Kananaskis Country
Did you know Kananaskis is full of wildlife? On this hike, I stumbled across a tiny ruffed grouse as we marched along the ridge. On other trips to Kananaskis, I’ve had the chance to see grizzly bears, wolves, big-horned sheep, mountain goats, moose, and more. It’s absolutely incredible to share space with such spectacular wildlife. At the same time, it’s important to keep a safe distance and refrain from feeding them. Let’s keep wild things wild.
If you’re new to hiking in grizzly territory, read up on becoming bear aware before heading out. I’m not a bear bell fan (they don’t work…) but I recommend carrying bear spray for close-up encounters. If you’re worried about bears, hike in a group and talk loudly on the trail to announce your presence.
Know Before You Go — Hiking in Kananaskis Country
Park Pass: You will need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to park in the area and you can purchase online or at the visitor centre.
Parking: There is parking at Highwood Pass parking lot, located along Highway 40. This lot can fill up quickly during weekends and good weather days so arrive early.
Toilet: There are outhouse toilets at the Highwood Pass parking lot. No toilet facilities are available along the trail.
Garbage: Pack out all garbage. There are no bins along the trail, and hikers are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Pets: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Be aware of wildlife and other trail users. Please pick up after your pet.
Navigation: The route up Highwood Ridge is partially unmarked. Bring a map and compass or download Highwood Ridge on AllTrails (doesn’t include the ridge walk).
Safety: Steep, exposed terrain. Watch for wildlife and changing weather. Bring bear spray.
More Kananaskis Country Hikes
- Pocaterra Ridge Hike in Kananaskis Country
- Sarrail Ridge Hike in Kananaskis Country
- Tent Ridge Hike: One of the Best Hikes in Kananaskis
- Galatea Lakes Hike in Kananaskis Country, Alberta
- King Creek Ridge Hike in Kananaskis Country
Have you hiked Highwood Ridge in Kananaskis Country? What was your experience like? Leave a comment below!
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
