Trail of the week

Trail: Stony Ridge

Difficulty: Intermediate

Lenght: 6.1km (there and back)

Ascent: 475 metres

Trailhead: Drive 41.3 km west of Longview on Hwy. 541. Park at the entrance to the gated road on the north side of the highway between Holy Cross Mountain and East Junction Hill.

Description: This road was built in 1944-45 by Ford Highwood Colliers while prospecting for coal. The area was later used as a minimum-security camp and as a camp for young offenders. Climb through the gate and continue north up the gravel road. You will pass by the original campsite, which is now used to store discarded items like picnic tables and wood. Continue north up a small grassy hill to another open field. At the northwest end of the field you will find the remains of an old exploration road to the right of a small creek. Follow this road through the spruce forest. Keep your eyes open for old lumber piles and rusty tin cans on the right side of the trail. Stay right when you reach a waterlogged, marshy area. The trail becomes somewhat steep and diminishes to a single track. After about 3 km into the hike you will see a large grassy knoll to your right. Watch for a trail that takes you up to the open unnamed ridge. Although it can be windy, there are amazing 360 degree view at the top. Relax and take in the magnificent scenery from this terrific lunch spot before returning to your car on the same trail.

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.

~ Trail recommendation and details provided by Sheep River Ramblers facilitator Joanne Godfrey. To join the Sheep River Ramblers hiking group visit Gita at the Sheep River Library in Turner Valley.