If you’re looking for a moderate mountain hike near Calgary, Moose Mountain is one to add to your list. Just a short drive from the city, this popular trail offers wide-open views, a rugged summit, and a perfect balance of challenge and reward. Whether you’re training for bigger peaks or just craving fresh air, the Moose Mountain hike makes for a fantastic day out in Kananaskis Country!
This summer, I spent a few weeks house and dog sitting for friends in Bragg Creek — a great time to finally check out Moose Mountain. My friend Donna joined me, along with our four-legged hiking buddy, Mila. We lucked out with sunny and warm weather, with a bit of light breeze. It wasn’t a rushed hike at all, taking our time to soak in the views and enjoy the quietness of the backcountry. These kinds of adventures always remind me how good it feels to share the trail with good friends (and a happy dog).
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Moose Mountain Trail Map
About Moose Mountain Trail
Location: Kananaskis Country, Alberta
Distance: 15 km out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 700 metres gain
Time: 4 – 5 hours
Dog-Friendly: Yes, but must be on a leash.
Features: The Moose Mountain hike brings expansive ridge views, a classic fire lookout at the summit, and plenty of variety along the way. The trail winds through forest, meadows, and open ridge before reaching wide panoramic views that stretch into the heart of Kananaskis.
Directions to the Trailhead
To reach the Moose Mountain trailhead, drive west from Calgary on Hwy 22X, which becomes Hwy 66 toward Bragg Creek. From the main intersection, follow Hwy 66 for another 14 km until you reach the base parking area for Moose Mountain on your right-hand side. From there, you can continue onto the well-marked gravel access road for roughly 7 km to the Moose Mountain Trailhead parking area. A heads up: this road can be rough with potholes and washed-out sections, so take your time. You may want a high-clearance vehicle.
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Note: Each year, Moose Mountain Road remains closed from December 1st to May 14th. If you’re planning to explore during the seasonal closure, you’ll need to add around 7 kilometres to your adventure.
Moose Mountain Hike — A Classic Alberta Adventure
The trail starts gently, winding through forest and open meadows before the steady climb begins. It’s the kind of hike that eases you in, so an excellent choice for catching up with my friend, Donna. It was an unseasonably hot day for September, so we stopped for a shaded snack break (try these oat bars) before making the final push to the summit. The trail is long, so bring lots of water and snacks (bring a water bottle or bladder bag). I wore my Altra trail runners, which worked fine, though you might prefer sturdier hiking boots for the rocky scree section.
As the three of us climbed higher, the trees gave way to open ridgelines and sweeping views behind us. The final stretch to the fire lookout is steep and exposed, and looks more intimidating than it really is. With the panoramic summit views, it’s easy to see why the Moose Mountain hike is a favourite among Calgarians. It’s a real mountain adventure, just an hour from the city. And yes, it’s also a great trail for adventurous pups, as long as they’re up for the distance and stay leashed (don’t forget their water bowl).
Read next: Prairie Mountain Hike Near Bragg Creek, Alberta
Know Before You Go
Kananaskis Pass: A valid Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Passes can be purchased online or stop at the visitor centre on your way.
Parking: Free parking is available at the Moose Mountain trailhead, located at the end of the gravel access road off Highway 66. The lot fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early.
Season: Moose Mountain is accessible from mid-May to late November when the gate is open. The gate closes annually on December 1.
Toilet: No toilets here, but you can stop at the visitor centre or outhouses at rest stops nearby.
Pets: Dogs are allowed on Moose Mountain, but please pick up after your pet. I suggest carrying a smell-proof bag to pack out the dog waste.
Weather: Expect quick changes in mountain weather — bring layers (including a waterproof shell) and be ready for strong summit winds.
Safety: The upper section is exposed. Turn back if storms build, and keep a safe distance from steep edges near the lookout. Bring a first aid kit to deal with minor injuries.
Wildlife: Moose, deer, and occasionally bears or coyotes can be seen here. Bring bear spray (on a holster) and keep your doggos on a leash. If you’re new to bear country, make sure you’re “bear smart” before heading out.
Leave No Trace: This is a popular trail, so we all need to do our part to keep Kananaskis pristine for generations to come (check out Leave No Trace Principles). Stay on the trail, respect wildlife, and pack out everything you bring — even the organic stuff (like fruit peels). Let’s keep Moose Mountain wild and beautiful, friends!
More Kananaskis Hikes
If you’re planning to explore more Kananaskis hiking trails, here are a few favourites you might like next:
- Highwood Ridge Hike in Kananaskis Country
- Packenham Junior Peak Hike in Kananaskis Country
- Ribbon Falls Hike in Kananaskis, Alberta
- Yates Mountain via Prairie View Trail in Kananaskis
- Ptarmigan Cirque Trail: Family-Friendly Kananaskis Hike
Have you hiked Moose Mountain? What was your experience like? Let me know in the comments 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.
