Mount Smutwood

  AWD HI NO

Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Scenery: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mileage: 12.5 mi

Region: Spray Valley Provincial Park

Elev. Gain: 3,167 ft

When to Go: Jun—Oct

Avg. Time: 6.5 hr

Parking: Small unpaved lot

Type: Out + Back

Pass: Kananaskis Conservation or $15CAD day-use fee

AllTrails: Route

Trailhead Coordinates:

50.838944, -115.351000

Know Before You Go:

  • A must-do hike in the Kananaskis area - the views are unparalleled.

  • You’ll be treated to beautiful views almost the entire way - the trail is not always easy to follow so having an offline map is helpful.

  • This is highly active bear country so travel in larger groups, carry bear spray and bear bells, play music on the trail if you aren't a super talkative hiker - anything to let them know where you are at all times. This will help you avoid surprise encounters.

  • Once you reach the ridge line at the lake the trail becomes significantly narrower with steep drops, take your time on this portion and enjoy the views.

  • Slight scrambling is required in a handful of spots but there is nothing technical about this trail until you reach the last few hundred feet to the true peak - complete this portion at your own risk.

  • Bring layers and rain gear - it is not uncommon for afternoon squalls to blow through quickly and the trail here is very exposed.

  • Footwear with good traction is a must for this trail.

  • There is no camping or dogs allowed here.

  • No trashcans to be found anywhere so please pack out everything you bring. Trash attracts wildlife and makes the area unsafe for future visitors.