Trail: Pocaterra Cirque
Difficulty: Intermediate
Length: 6 km (out and back)
Ascent: 300 metres
Trailhead: Highwood Pass parking lot on Highway 40
Description: Hike over the small wooden bridge on the north end of the parking lot. Soon you will come to a fork in the trail. Go left. Follow the narrow trail through the meadow, then head west into the trees. The unmarked trail is quite muddy for the first kilometre, but dries out as you climb higher. The trail eventually exits the forest and opens up to a spectacular and colourful view. The path through a rocky talus will lead to a small tarn (lake). Listen for the “peep, peep” of the tiny pica amongst the rocks. Continue to follow the trail up to the top of the cirque. Tuck into some trees for lunch, as it can be windy. It’s quite fun to watch as other hikers continue up to Pocaterra Ridge. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep grazing on the steep grassy ridge. Enjoy the fantastic vistas of the Kananaskis Valley as you return back to the parking lot.
Reminder: Take adequate water, food and clothing in the event of sudden weather changes. Ensure someone knows where you’re going and when you’ll be back in the event you get lost or injured. Hiking alone is not recommended.
Editor's note.Check the forecast. Things may not be so great out there this weekend.