Hike Ptarmigan Cirque Trail - Family Friendly Hike in Kananaskis + Geocaching

*This Event is weather dependent*
*This Event has Geocaching activities*

The Ptarmigan Cirque hike in Kananaskis is an excellent beginner hiking trail. You’ll find impressive views of the Rocky Mountains on this short trail, without too much strenuous effort. It may be too early in the month to see patches of golden larch trees with mountain peaks surrounding the area. That being said, Ptarmigan Cirque is absolutely worth visiting any time of the year!

This is a very popular area for birding and hiking, so we'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Parking Info
A Conservation Pass is required to park at Provincial Parks and public use lands in the Kananaskis Country and Bow Valley region. There are two options for purchasing a pass; daily pass and yearly pass. Only one pass per vehicle is required regardless of the number of passengers. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike there is no fee. For more information on the pass, please visit the Kananaskis Conservation Pass website: https://www.alberta.ca/kananaskis-conservation-pass.aspx

Hiking Pace: slow, beginner level, with lots of stops for photos.
What to bring:

• water, snacks and lunch
• rain/wind jacket and layers; dress for the weather
• good hiking boots/shoes
• hiking poles
• bug spray
• bear spray
• sunscreen/sun glasses
• camera
• Pets are welcome but must be on leash
• most importantly, you are bringing a smile

Trail: 3.4km (loop); 256m elevation
Trail location: Park in Highwood Meadows Day Use Area at the top of Highwood Pass. Look for signage pointing to the trailhead here. We will need to cross the highway to start the hike up to Ptarmigan Cirque.

Waiver: anyone joining this event must sign the waiver form before the start of the event (either at the meeting location or at the trailhead). You must also provide an emergency contact name and number of someone who is not currently joining you in this event.
Disclaimer: You acknowledge that organizers/hosts are not professional guides, and as such, by joining this event you assume full responsibility for your safety. You further attest to be prepared for the event (e.g. you have water, gear, food, etc.) and that you are physically capable to participate in this event.

***Picture used was extracted from Hike Bike Travel/Leigh McAdam

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