Pocaterra Ridge Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Geological Significance · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Always carry bear spray! Keep in mind that this trail is NOT maintained by Alberta Parks, but it tends to stay relatively clear since most of the trail is above the treeline and it is fairly heavily trafficked.

This point-to-point hike can be approached from either the north or south, but most tend to begin at the southern trailhead for a net downhill hike. If starting from the south you'll warm up by traversing through mixed evergreen and larch forest and also pass through open meadow areas fed by a small creek. The spectacularly banded Highwood Ridge looms over the trail to the south (also a scrambling option for those inclined for a more technical hike).

There is an optional leftward turn about 1.7 miles (2. 7km) onto the trail to access Grizzly Col and further trails to the south. The trail eventually turns northward where you begin a steep climb up to the Pocaterra ridgeline, the views of the surrounds improving with every step. In the fall, the larch colors are incredible in this area. Once you've finished this large climb, you'll be finished with the bulk of your uphill activity for the day. Take time to apprecite the highly varied geological composition of the surrounding area. Mount Pocaterra sits directly to the west and Mount Tyrwhitt to the south.

Once replenished, you'll continue along the ridgeline, mostly downhill, with great views the entire way. Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats and bighorn sheep! You'll finish on a steep descent back below the treeline to a crossing of Pocaterra Creek before ending at the northern trailhead just on the other side of Hwy 40.