It’s not an exaggeration to call Tent Ridge one of the best hikes in Kananaskis. The immensely popular Tent Ridge hike offers spectacular views of the Spray Lakes Reservoir and surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks, but this route isn’t for the faint of heart. With a couple of scrambles and steep sections here, hikers make their way up 800 metres of elevation before reaching the highest summit. If you’re looking for an adventurous day in Kananaskis Country, then Tent Ridge deserves to be on your list!
Last Updated: January 29, 2024
Tent Ridge had been on my must-hike list for a while. I finally planned a day trip with my friend and hiking buddy, Donna, back in October before the snow arrived. Tent Ridge can be an excellent choice for the shoulder season and far less crowded than than in the summer months (don’t expect to find much solitude during peak season!).
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Table of Contents
About Tent Ridge Hike — A Very Popular Kananaskis Hike
Location: Spray Valley Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta
Distance: 12 km loop
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation: 800 m elevation gain
Time: 5 – 6 hours
Dog-friendly: Yes, but dogs must remain on a leash.
Features: The Tent Ridge Horseshoe hike is a spectacular Rocky Mountain adventure, with 360-degree views of Spray Lakes and the Kananaskis Valley, a ridge walk with two different peaks, and varied terrain including forests and alpine meadows. Get ready for the steep ascent and descents and a couple of scrambles (i.e. climbing steep terrain using your hands and feet). With impressive Rock Mountain viewpoints, it’s hard to understand why Tent Ridge Horseshoe is known as one of the best Kananaskis hikes!
Note: Tent Ridge Horseshoe isn’t the most physically demanding hike out there, but there are steep sections and a couple of short scrambles where you’ll need to use your hands to climb. Scrambling up rock faces can may be intimidating for some hikers, and if you’re not comfortable with that, you might want to consider another trail or plan a portion of Tent Ridge.
Tent Ridge Horseshoe Map
Finding the Tent Ridge Trailhead
You shouldn’t have too much trouble finding the Tent Ridge Trailhead. If you’re driving from Canmore, head west on Highway 742 (Smith Dorrien Trail) past the Canmore Nordic Centre, and then continue beside the Spray Lakes Reservoir for about 35 km. You’re going to take a right toward Mount Engadine Lodge (Rummel Lake Trailhead on the left) and drive toward Mt. Shark for about a kilometre. We parked on the shoulder beside the first trail access (on the left), but I suggest driving a bit further to the parking area at the official Tent Ridge Horseshoe Trailhead.
Note: When we hiked Tent Ridge, I didn’t realize there was a designated parking area past the first trailhead. I suggest parking in the designated parking area and then walking along the road to the first trailhead. You’ll then complete Tent Ridge Horseshoe in the clockwise direction.
Tent Ridge Horseshoe Trail — One of the Best Kananaskis Hikes!
Tent Ridge Trail begins with a walk through the forest, without any notable views until you reach above the treeline. Eventually, we entered the basin with a full view of Tent Ridge and the peak you’ll eventually hike up. In the wintertime, this basin area would pose significant avalanche risk. We found some packed snow on the trail in October, but nothing to cause any concern. We made our way to the left and out of the basin, with increasingly better views of Rocky Mountains peaks to our left.
After hiking up from the basin, we approached a scramble to the first peak and appreciated our trail crampons for extra traction. We hiked up the gradually steeper and more rugged trail, taking a bit longer as we stopped several times to soak up the view of Spray Lakes Reservoir. After some careful hiking on a snowy and icy path, we reached the first summit with the weather station and impressive panoramic views. We didn’t cross paths with many other hikers, though we spotted a sizeable group on the second summit — like ants on a hill!
After a short rest, we excitedly made our way across the ridge and then slowly up the steep scree to the second (and higher) peak. Hiking poles were very helpful. During our mid-October trek, the weather was crisp and clear and the views were absolutely breathtaking. I’m sure we added an hour to hike just taking in the views from the summit! After finishing our snacks, we continued along the ridge for even more spectacular views. Some hikers choose this section only for the views, instead of the full horseshoe. On the last stretch, you’ll descend back down into the forest and make your way to the parking area.
Read more: King Creek Ridge Hike in Kananaskis, Alberta
What To Bring on a Day Hike
If you’re planning the Tent Ridge hike in the summer or shoulder season, it’s essential to be well-prepared for weather and trail conditions. Specifically, I wouldn’t have felt comfortable hiking in October without trail crampons or microspikes. Bring several layers to keep you warm and happy, including a waterproof shell jacket. Don’t forget a warm hat and gloves, especially in the shoulder season (but really, always good to have).
When hiking in the Rockies, wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots to rely on as you hike along rugged and slippery terrain. Trekking poles are very useful for extra stability and support but may get in the way when scrambling. Bring enough water and high-energy snacks for the duration of the hike. You won’t find easy access to freshwater on Tent Ridge. Add other gear to your day pack, including a basic first aid kit, map and compass (and GPS device), headlamp, and an emergency communications device (no cell service).
Read next: 10 Day Hiking Essentials: What to Bring on a Hike
Know Before You Go
Conservation Pass: The Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for parking at Tent Ridge Trailhead. Purchase your pass to avoid fines and support conservation efforts in Kananaskis Country.
Parking: There is a designated parking area for the Tent Ridge hike at the trailhead. In the peak summer months, I suggest arriving early as the parking area can fill up quickly.
Toilet: You won’t find an outhouse at the trailhead or along the route. Plan to “go before you go” or practice Leave No Trace principles if nature calls while on the trail.
Safety: During the summer months, scramble sections pose risk of injury and hikers should be prepared to navigate rock faces. Carry enough water and snacks to get through the hike. In the winter and shoulder seasons, avalanche risk is a concern on the Tent Ridge hike. Always check the avalanche forecast before heading out. I carry a satellite communications device in case of emergencies. Tent Ridge is generally recommended between May and October.
Wildlife: Kananaskis Country is home to grizzly bears and other wildlife. Understand bear safety before you head out and carry bear spray in case of an encounter.
Trail Etiquette: Stay on the designated trail to protect the natural environment and limit negative human impact. Allow uphill hikers to pass and be respectful of others on the trail.
Leave No Trace: If you pack it in, please make sure to pack it out (including food waste like fruit peels and nut shells). If you’re not already aware, become familiar with Leave No Trace principles and do your best to practice on the trail.
Navigation: Carry a map and compass and a GPS device to help navigate the trail. Downloading the route file from AllTrails or Gaia can be very helpful.
Emergency Plan: Let someone know where you’re going, especially if you’re heading out solo. Your trip plan should include details of when you’ll return and what to do (and when to act) in case of delays. You should also carry a small first aid kit.
Read more: The Breathtaking Pocaterra Ridge Hike in Alberta
More Kananaskis Hikes
Kananaskis Country is an incredible place to explore, only an hour from the city of Calgary. If you’re looking for more hiking trails in Kananaskis, here are a few suggestions that you might want to add to your list (if you haven’t already):
- South Lawson Peak in Kananaskis, Alberta
- Mount Burke Hike in Kananaskis, Alberta
- King Creek Ridge Hike in Kananaskis, Alberta
- The Breathtaking Pocaterra Ridge Hike in Alberta
Have you hiked the Tent Ridge Horseshoe Trail in Kananaskis Country? How was your experience? 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.
