DATE CHANGE - Vents Ridge - White Buddha - Hike (Moderate)
Details
Date: March 1, 2026
Hike Start Time: 8AM
Hike Finish Time: 12PM (approximate)
Distance: 6-7KM
Elevation gain: 300M (approximate)
Difficulty: Moderate
Please join me for a fun and short hike near Bragg Creek. Vents Ridge (White Buddha) is located between Prairie Mountain and Powderface Ridge. We will begin on the Powderface Creek trail and follow it for about 1.3km at which point we will turn right and start a steep climb through a number of switchbacks towards the White Buddha climbing crag. The switchback portion of the trail is exposed (no trees) so depending on the weather please be prepared for changing conditions. At this section of the trail, in about 700-750m distance we will gain about 200m elevation so it will be a pretty steep climb but well worth it. We will take breaks as needed. After the switchbacks we will traverse the base of the cliff and reach a short 50m scramble, and when I say scramble it is more a steep climb than a scramble, with loose rock (mostly snow covered now) that will lead us to the top of the ridge. From the summit we will be able to see Prairie Mountain to the north, Nihahi ridge to the west and possibly city of Calgary to the east. We will enjoy the amazing views from the summit and have a snack before descending down via the back side (north) towards the Prairie Creek. We will cross the frozen () creek, and follow the trail back to the road.
Finish in Bragg Creek, at the Tavern for lunch. Not the saloon. Bring money for food! Speaking about what to bring....
What to bring
- Hiking boots with good treads.
- Hiking poles.
- Microspikes.
- Please dress in layers.
- Plenty of water*
- Snack
- Bear spray.
- Personal first aid kit.
*suggestion: carry your water in an insulated mug (thermos) or if you are using a water bladder, have an insulation sleeve for the hose.
Meeting Spot
If anyone needs a ride from the city please make arrangements through direct messaging or in the chat. Consider a contribution to your driver for the pass and gas.
Weather
Powderface Creek Weather
Avalanche Canada
Road Conditions - Alberta
References
Vents Ridge - Bob Spirko
White Buddha - Vent’s Ridge (Alltrails)
Backcountry Safety
Kananaskis Pass
Be Bear Smart
Alberta Parks Advisories & Closures
The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace
Avalanche Canada
Contact
If you have any questions please call/text me at 403-477-5771.
photo credit: Tim T Alltrails
Event Waiver
By signing up for this event you acknowledge and accept the following:
"I acknowledge that this activity in which I am participating, organized by Alpine Wellness Hiking Adventures and/or its members, involves risks which are beyond the control of the group. Notwithstanding the acknowledgement of such risks, I hereby release the Alpine Wellness Hiking Adventures and its organizers from all claims for damage however so arising as a result of my participation in this and any other activity organized by the Alpine Wellness Hiking Adventures. I affirm that I am aware of the nature of this activity, its length, duration and degrees of difficulty and that I am properly equipped and physically able to participate. I have no medical or other condition which might preclude my participation. I agree to pay the cost of emergency evacuation of my person and/or my belongings that may be necessary. I agree to follow the directions of the organizer(s) and any assistants at all times."