As one of the most popular southern Alberta hikes, the Table Mountain hike in Castle Provincial Park is a challenging route up to a flat, table-like summit. It’s really not hard to tell how Table Mountain got its name. If you’re used to hiking in Alberta, you’ll find a new and exciting experience here compared to Canmore or Banff. Don’t take my word for it — head down to Table Mountain and check it out for yourself!
Last Updated: March 12, 2024
One of my last camping trips of Summer 2020 was in Beaver Mines Lake Campground, about two and half hours south of Calgary. Southern Alberta’s landscape felt completely different than being in Kananaskis, Canmore, and Banff — all spectacular in their own right. I felt similarly when I hiked Crypt Lake in Waterton Lakes National Park, a bit further south toward the Canada – U.S. border. If you’re looking for a workout with expansive views, the Table Mountain hike is one for your list. Pick up a copy of Popular Day Hikes: The Castle and Crowsnest by Andrew Nugara for more southern Alberta hikes.
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About Table Mountain Hike — One of the Best Hikes in Alberta
Location: Beaver Mines Lake Campground, Castle Provincial Park, Alberta
Distance: 11.5 km out and back
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (steep sections)
Elevation: 760 metre gain
Time: 4 – 5 hours
Dog-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on a leash.
Features: The Table Mountain hike has grown in popularity for its flat, table-like summit and expansive views of the Southern Alberta region. Before finding the views, visitors will make their way up the steep and slippery gravel terrain. From the top of Table Mountain, walk along the tabletop to find different views of Beaver Mines Lakes and the surrounding mountain landscapes before returning the way you came. Table Mountain has earned a spot as one of the best hikes in Alberta!
Table Mountain Trail Map
Finding the Table Mountain Trailhead
You shouldn’t have much trouble finding Table Mountain Trailhead in Beaver Mines Lake Campground. If you’re driving from Calgary, head down the Cowboy Trail (Hwy 22) until reaching the junction with Crowsnest Highway. Turn right (west) onto Crowsnest Hwy (Hwy 3) and then turn left (south) onto Hwy 507 after 6.5 km. After about 14 km, pass through the Beaver Mines hamlet and continue straight on Hwy 774. Follow the signs for Beaver Mines Lake Campground. You can either park in the Beaver Mines Day Use Area on the left or keep going for another parking area.
Waterfall, anyone? I highly recommend stopping at Lundbreck Falls about 30 minutes north of the Beaver Mines. Lundbreck Falls is an impressive set of waterfalls — a hidden gem in the Southern Alberta region. You may even find locals swimming on a hot summer day!
Table Mountain Hike — Hiking in Southern Alberta
After an overnight in Beaver Mines Lake Campground, you can either walk or drive to the trailhead nearby. I started the Table Mountain hike around 8:00am and was alone for the beginning. However it wasn’t long before I heard voices from a family trailing behind. With its rising popularity, Table Mountain sees many visitors each year, especially during high-traffic summer months. If you’re solo and want people around, Table Mountain truly offers some of the best (and most scenic) hiking in southern Alberta.
The Table Mountain hike starts off fairly flat and gradually gains elevation through the forest in Castle Wildland Provincial Park. Once you leave the trees, after 30 minutes or so, the trail flattens again for long enough to enjoy the nice views behind. Then start climbing on the well-trodden trail, following red trail markers through the creek bed. If you’re hiking with dogs or need to refill water, there’s a little stream for a quick drink — filter or purify before drinking. After reaching the viewpoint, you can either go straight up the screen or to the left for a gentler hike (I suggest going left unless you want a steep leg burner…). Keep going.. you’re almost there!
Read next: Bear’s Hump Trail in Waterton Lakes National Park
Table Mountain Trail — Steep Hiking to the Summit
After passing the creek bed, you can either trudge up the steep scree or follow the gentler ascent on the left-hand side. I don’t know how this happened, but I missed the easier route and began climbing the steeper section (would not recommend). I had been huffing and puffing my way up for a few minutes when I noticed the other trail to my left. By that point, I was already committed and kept trudging uphill (descending was more fun!).
As you make your way to the summit, there are a couple of areas that can be considered easy scrambles. That being said, it’s mostly a steady hike to the top without using your hands. You may want to use your hiking poles for extra momentum and stability. Be sure to bring your camera for some great shots on the way up (and an excuse to catch your breath). When you reach the summit, you won’t find any water sources to draw from. I suggest carrying a two-litre water reservoir and a bit more on a hot day. The Table Mountain summit is quite exposed with little shade except in the small patch of forest.
Table Mountain Summit — Very Scenic Hike in Alberta!
After the steep climb to Table Mountain Summit, I was thrilled to discover wide-open views of Castle Provincial Park and the surrounding area. Right away, I went toward the left for one of the most iconic views of Table Mountain (pictured above). If you’re like me, you’ll forget all about the steep incline and tired legs as you soak up the phenomenal scenery. At this point, some hikers start the journey back. If you have time, I highly suggest continuing to the highest point only 2 km to the east. Walk along a very gentle grade, through a small patch of forest, and up to the highest peak (2,232 metres).
Read next: Crypt Lake Hike in Waterton Lakes National Park
What To Bring
Before heading out on the Table Mountain hike, be sure to double-check your day pack to make sure you have what you need. Bring at least two litres of water in either a water reservoir or a water bottle, and some snacks for the journey (like these high-energy chews). I used these hiking boots but you could tackle this in trail runners, depending on your preference or if you want additional ankle support. Trekking poles were also very useful going up and down the steep terrain. I’m not a big hat person, but I love wearing this Buff to keep the sweat out of my eyes. As always, bring a waterproof jacket to keep you warm and dry if the weather changes.
Read next: 10 Day Hiking Essentials: What to Bring on a Hike
Where To Stay — Beaver Mines Lake Campground
If you’re looking for a play to stay, consider pitching your tent or parking your RV at Beaver Mines Lake Campground in Castle Provincial Park. This scenic campground is about 20 km west of Pincher Creek and most sites are surrounded by lush trees (bring your hammock). Reserve your site online between May 17 to September 26 with 76 unserviced sites available. Visitors have access to the boat launch for water activities, fire pits in each campsite, and outhouse toilets in the campground. A water pump is available although it’s recommended to bring your own drinking water or water filtration system. Firewood is not available in the campground (plan to buy from a local source).
Know Before You Go
Park Pass: No park pass or permit is required for the Beaver Mines Day Use Area.
Parking: Plenty of parking available in Beaver Mines Day Use Area.
Season: Between mid-May to October is the best time to hike Table Mountain.
Toilet: Outhouses are available at the Table Mountain Trailhead and in the Beaver Mines Lake Campground. No flush toilets available in the park.
Pets: Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash the whole time. Please pick up after your doggo and consider this smell-proof bag to carry it out.
Navigation: Table Mountain is fairly well-defined with signs near the beginning and red trail markers along the way. You can also download Table Mountain from All Trails for offline use.
Safety: Bring a lightweight first aid kit to deal with minor injuries. I also suggest carrying rehydration packets or tablets, like these Nuun tabs. You won’t have much (or any) cell reception, so I suggest bringing the Zoleo satellite communications device.
Wildlife: Castle Provincial Park and Castle Wildland Provincial Park are home to a variety of wildlife, including over 200 rare species such as whitebark and limber pine, dwarf alpine poppy, wolverine, and harlequin duck. Remember to keep your distance and never feed or approach wild animals. You should also know that Table Mountain is in grizzly bear territory. Bring bear spray and know how to use it, keeping the spray accessible in a holster is preferable.
Have you hiked to the top of Table Mountain? How was your experience? Are you planning a trip soon? 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.
