Powderface Ridge (South approach; relaxed pace)

This is one of the classic hikes in Kananaskis Country, leading to a wide, grassy ridge with beautiful views of Nihahi Ridge and other peaks such as Mount Glasgow, Cornwall and Banded Peak to the west. The hike starts with a fairly steep climb on a well-defined trail through forest. It then breaks out into a beautiful meadow before reaching a col with Rainy Ridge. From here, there are beautiful views of the Elbow River below. After the col, the trail weaves its way through the forest before opening up on the long grassy ridge with expansive views to the west. This trail is suitable for intermediate hikers.

Length: 14 km
Elevation Gain: 700 m
Difficulty: (T3) Intermediate hikers

TRAILHEAD: The trail starts at the end of Highway 66, at the junction with Powderface Trail (road). There is parking along the paved shoulder or nearby at Powderface road. Meet at the trailhead at 9:30 am. Look for a black Dodge Grand Caravan.
LENGTH AND TIME: This is a full day hike. Please do not sign up for the hike if you need to be back at a certain time.
TYPE OF TRAIL: out and back. Please note: There is an option of ascending Powderface Ridge from the south and then descending to the west to Powderface Road. This would involve a short vehicle shuttle of 7 km. If people want to do this, we can discuss it at the trailhead.
PACE: We will be going at a relaxed, “slow and steady” pace. Please do not sign up for this trip if you are a speedy hiker or want to run far ahead. We will stay together as a group, and make stops as needed for water, photos, and to layer or delayer.
PASS: A Kananaskis pass is required for this trip.
WAITLIST: A waitlist has been set for this trail, just to make sure that this is a suitable trail for you. There is a maximum ofnine hikers for this trip.
WEATHER: If there is a severe weather alert for smoke, this hike will be cancelled.
REFERENCES:
https://www.10adventures.com/hikes/bragg-creek-sheep-river/powderface-ridge-hike/
Powderface Ridge
SUGGESTED GEAR: backpack; layers of clothes including a wind or rain layer, hiking poles, personal first aid kit, bear spray; snacks and lunch
CARPOOLING: I won’t be arranging carpooling for this trip as I don’t live in Calgary but you can use the comments section to arrange rides. Suggested gas fee contribution is $15.00. as well as a contribution to the Kananaskis Pass if you don’t have one.
WAIVER AND CODES OF CONDUCT: You will be asked to sign a waiver before going on this trip, and to respect the Slow and Steady Codes of Conduct.
DISCLAIMER: You are fully aware that your hosts are volunteers and not trained guides and you assume all responsibility for your own safety and well-being. All participants are responsible for assessing the current road conditions, current weather conditions, your current physical condition, current trail conditions and current avalanche conditions for the trip and you are responsible for your safety and well-being. You are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this hike with the group.