Mount Smutwood
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
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.