For the past year we have keenly anticipated the construction and opening of a new official trail up Prairie Mountain, and today our group of 13 got a chance to take it for a test hike. (two of us had already hiked this trail earlier this month.)

The new trail is bobcat wide and set by an engineer to a steady grade, although the grade is still much steeper than, for instance, the trails in the U.S. National Parks.

New bobcat-wide tread on Prairie Mountain trail

Everybody thought the new trail is a significant improvement from the old route, which was typical hiker-set track going straight up the fall line, and getting more braided and eroded with every passing year. Unlike the new Ha Ling Peak trail at Canmore, though the trail is still fairly rocky and loose, unlike the packed clay at Ha Ling. In winter, the trail will be very steep and icy, making spikes essential. One member was observed putting this trail on their "never again" list.

This trail is indeed the newest "Official Trail" in Alberta, with official signage throughout.

New official trail signage on Prairie Mountain

It has not yet appeared on the Kananaskis Country trails report, though.

Some sections appear to be the old trail, with rough, rocky tread and/or rooty sections.

Some of the tread is rough original rocks

The trail is reported to have cost well over an eye watering $800,00, amounting to over $1,000 per vertical metre, but it is good to see our Kananaskis Pass money being used to improve the facilities (along with new campsites being built).

A peculiar feature is the building of two sets of stone steps just barely cutting off the end of the switchbacks. It is both easier and faster taking the trail like the mountain bikers, rather than these short stone step segments.

At 2 switchbacks there are short, optional stone steps

It was a beautiful 20 degree day in the valley, but on the peak there was an icy, gale force wind strong enough to make any hiker stagger. Most turned around quickly at the top and retreated down to the edge of the forest for lunch.

Our mascot for the day, Mia, the Chihuahua, rode down in a very custom and cozy dog pack on the back of owner Marie-Josee, enjoying her free trial introduction to the Ramblers. We hope to see more of both on future hikes!

Our mascot Chihuahua Mia in Marie-Josee's cozy custom dog backpack

Participants: Norman,Joe,Tom,Carl, coordinator and scribe, Linda,Robert,Susan,Bill,Enrique,Janet,Ross,Michael,Marie-Josee.