Introduction

The High Rockies Trail, which connects Goat Creek at the Banff Park boundary to Elk Pass on the Alberta/B.C. boundary, is the westernmost section of the Trans Canada Trail in Alberta.

Introduction

Maps & GPS

There are three maps showing distances along the trail and connections to parking area. You can download them and print them on 11”x17” paper at a scale of 1:50,000.

Maps & GPS

Goat Creek to Spray Lakes West Campground

The mostly wide tread on this scenic section will allow for skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Best views are to be had when traveling from south to north.

Goat Creek to Spray Lake

Spray Lakes West Campground to Sparrowhawk

A rocky trail with some views along the lakeshore to Driftwood day-use area where it crosses the highway and remains in the trees the rest of the way.

Spray Lake to Sparrowhawk

Sparrowhawk to Buller Creek

Starts off in the trees for about half the distance then breaks out onto boulder slopes with magnificent views. A section with avalanche paths is closed in winter.

Sparrowhawk to Buller Creek

Buller Creek to Chester Lake

One of the more appealing sections of the High Rockies Trail for hikers with changing views as they approach scenic Birdwood, Smutts and Commonwealth peaks.

Buller Creek to Chester Lake

Chester Lake to Canyon

Follows old logging roads to Sawmill, then forest trails to cross a suspension bridge at Blackshale Creek and down to upper Kananaskis Lake.

Chester Lake to Canyon

Canyon to Boulton Creek

This section of the High Rockies Trail is paved all the way to Boulton Creek. In winter the route is almost all on groomed ski trails.

Canyon to Boulton Creek

Boulton Creek to Elk Pass

Starting out along Boulton Creek and winding up Fox Creek the final stretch of the High Rockies Trail climbs Elk Pass trail to the pass.

Boulton Creek to Elk Pass