Prairie Mountain (Kananaskis, AB)

Prairie Mountain is a great hike if you are looking for a steep ascent and great views. This is a great workout because the hike is pretty much straight up the whole way. Being from Vancouver Island, I would definitely compare it to the Grouse Grind. The first part of the hike is through alpine forest, but once you get to the clearing near the top, the views of Elbow River and the Bragg Creek area are phenomenal.
Stats
- Difficulty: Moderate/Scramble
- Distance: 6km return
- Altitude: 2,210 m
- Time: 2-4 hours
- Elevation Gain: 700 m
Patrick and I went up Prairie Mountain in the depths of winter in late February. We put our crampons on and made our ascent. The hike to the top only took us an hour, but we went quite quickly and didn’t take any breaks. The trails were really slippery, so crampons and poles would be advantageous. You can do this hike all year round.
Trail Description
The trail starts right off the road past the Elbow Falls recreational area. You will pass the gate and cross a bridge on the right hand side marked Prairie Creek. This trail is pretty popular, so you will more than likely run into other hikers. The first part of the hike goes through the trees. There is only one way up, so you will not get lost.

The trail is pretty steep the whole way up, and it is a grueling 3km to the top for about 700 meters. You will see glimpses of the mountains on your hike up.

Once you get above the tree line the trail levels out on a grassy ridge to the summit, where you will see a Canada flag.

Once you get to the top you will see amazing 360 degree views of Moose Mountain, Mount Glasgow, Mount Cornwall, the city of Calgary, Elbow Falls, and the MacLean Creek area.
Driving Directions:
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If you are driving from Calgary, head west towards Bragg Creek. You will drive onto highway 66 towards Elbow Falls Driving directions. After about 20kms on Highway 66 you will see the Elbow Falls parking lot and a closure gate on the road. You will park and walk past the gate and about 100m past the gate is the trail on the right side of the road. You will see a sign that says Prairie Creek. The trail is very well marked.