Prairie Peak (go at your own pace)

Prairie Peak, located near Elbow Falls, offers an opportunity for a moderately steep hike with beautiful panoramic views from the summit. The trail is mainly through forest and has been graded with switchbacks. Once you pop out of the trees, the trail is less steep, and you ascend gradually to the summit while enjoying the beautiful views.
This trail is suitable for intermediate hikers who are looking for a challenging workout close to Calgary. This hike is a "go at your own pace" event.
Note: Depending on your pace, it could take from an hour and a half to two and a half hours to reach the summit. We will all turn back from the summit at 1 pm. This would give two and a half hours for the slowest hiker to make it to the summit. I’ll wait for the slowest hiker and descend with him or her to make sure that everyone returns safely. If you are a fast hiker, you will need to sign out at the parking lot just so I know that you made it down safely. (I’ll leave a sign out sheet, enclosed in a sturdy Ziploc bag outside of my vehicle.)
Distance: 7.5 km return
Elevation: 670 m elevation gain
Trail: out and back, mainly through forest
Difficulty: Trail 3; intermediate hikers
Pace: Go at your own pace
Time: About four to five hours depending on your pace
Trailhead: Elbow Falls parking lot. Meet at the parking lot at 10:30 a.m.
Directions to trailhead: From Calgary, take the TransCanada or Highway 8 to Highway 22. Turn south towards Bragg Creek. Drive past Bragg Creek on highway 66 to the Elbow Falls parking lot.
Passes: You will need a Kananaskis Pass
Carpooling: I won't arrange carpooling as I don't live in Calgary, but you can use the comments section to arrange carpooling if you like.
Suggested carpooling fee: Zone 1, $10, plus contribution to the Kananaskis Pass if required.
References:
Prairie Mountain Hike Near Bragg Creek, Alberta - Out & Across
Suggested gear: warm hiking boots, pack, layers of clothing including a wind layer; lunch, water, personal first aid kit; hiking poles if you use them. You might want to take microspikes in case there are snow or icy sections.
Waiver and Code of Conduct
I will bring a waiver to the trailhead which you must sign before going on the trip. Please provide the name and phone number of your emergency contact.
Your participation in this event means you have read the waiver and by signing up for this event you have accepted the waiver. You are fully aware that organizers are not professional guides, and you assume all responsibility for your safety and well-being. You are fully prepared with proper gear, and you are physically fit to do this hike with the group. You are responsible for your own safety and well-being.
All participants are responsible for assessing current road, weather, trail and avalanche conditions for the trip.