A Trek up Tent Ridge in Kananaskis Country

The Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis Country is perfect if you’re looking for a moderately challenging hike with phenomenal views. The hike features jaw-dropping views of the Spray Valley, an overhead view of the Spray Lakes Reservoir, and it’s an ideal place to watch sunrise.

In this trail guide I’ll tell you everything you need to know about hiking Tent Ridge, a few things I wish I would have known before hiking the trail, as well as tips to ensure you have a successful hike.

Looking for more great hikes in Kananaskis? Click here.

Now, let’s go hiking!

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~ Taylor ♡



Tent Ridge hike Kananaskis

How to get to the Tent Ridge Trailhead

The Tent Ridge hike is located in Spray Valley Provincial Park which is part of the magnificent Kananaskis Country (my favourite hiking destination in the Rockies). The actual Tent Ridge trailhead can be found along Mount Shark Road, not far past Mount Engadine Lodge.

The official parking lot is small and not well-marked so make sure you have google maps downloaded.

There are no shuttles or buses that drive through Kananaskis Country, so if you plan on hiking you’ll need to drive or rent a car to access the Tent Ridge trailhead.

Note there’s a seasonal road closure in Kananaskis (more info) and, as of summer 2021, you need a conservation pass to visit Kananaskis Country.

Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
Ridge walkin’ on Tent Ridge in Kananaskis

Tent Ridge hike Kananaskis

About the Tent Ridge Trail

  • Distance: 10.1km
  • Elevation gain: 828m
  • Rated: hard
  • Type of trail: loop
  • Estimated time: 4.5hrs

The Tent Ridge trail is moderately challenging and well-trafficked. The beginning of the hike (depending on which way you hike) is much easier to navigate than the last section; I’ll talk about this more next.

The trail starts out in a wooded area full of Larch trees then enters a beautiful alpine meadow. Next the trail enters a bit of a loose scree section where some scrambling/bouldering is required. The ability of scrambling required here is beginner, although the terrain is quite steep.

You’ll then reach the “first peak,” but this is only the beginning. After this, the trail loses a significant amount of elevation, then gains it back with an additional 50m or so. From here you’ve got an easy ridge walk to complete the Horseshoe before descending down a steep slope from which you’ll re-enter the forest. Significant route finding skills will be required from here.

More Helpful Info
  • This trail is best hiked in the summer months (June to September). In winter the trail is extremely hazardous and crosses through multiple avalanche paths.
  • Due to steep elevation and bit of bouldering/scrambling, it’s not recommended you bring your furry friends or children.
  • On the Ridge you’ll be exposed for a significant amount of time. Bring lots of sunscreen or ensure you dress warm depending on weather conditions. If it’s cold and windy these are my favourite jackets to wear hiking in the Rockies.
  • It’s recommended users hike clockwise (more about this next).
  • Proper hiking boots (I use these/men’s version) and trekking poles are highly recommended for the Tent Ridge hike.
  • The trail occasionally is closed due to bear activity. Make sure you’re bear aware and always carrying bear spray.
  • There’s no water source once you reach the ridge. Come prepared with minimum 2L of water – I always bring my 2L Hydrapak.
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Taylor ♡


Tent Ridge hike Kananaskis

Hiking Tent Ridge

From the parking lot hikers will need to decide which direction they want to hike. For the purpose of this trail guide I’ll be speaking from the perspective of clockwise, however here’s a bit more info so you can make a directional decision that best suits you:

  • Clockwise: this is the more popular route; I’ll tell you everything you need to know about it subsequently.
  • Counter clockwise: This route is lesser travelled. I found what would be the beginning of this hike to be very difficult to navigate; my hiking group and I actually got lost. The only reason I’d recommend hiking counter clockwise is because it’s closer to where you’ll want to watch sunrise (overlooking the reservoir). If you hike this direction, prepare for extremely steep grades and lots of route-confusion.
Trailhead to the “First Peak”

The Tent Ridge trail immediately enters a wooded section full of Larch trees; prepare to find beautiful fall colours here in September and ensure you have bear spray. You’ll consistently gain elevation (although not overly strenuous) in the wooded section for about 3km until you reach the meadow. In the meadow you’ll find beautiful wildflowers around July.

Shortly after the meadow you’ll find a steep climb to the “first peak” of Tent Ridge. I’m not gonna call this a scramble because it honestly just feels steep rather than an actual scramble. It is very steep though and hikers will need to borderline boulder up a small section before reaching the top. It looks scarier in the photo than in real life, I swear!

Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
View down the Spray Valley
Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
A quick scramble on the way up Tent Ridge
“First Peak” to the Actual Summit

Upon reaching the “first peak” hikers will find a weather station, INCREDIBLE views of the surrounding mountains, and the tiny Tryst Lake. I really fudged up and only used my GoPro for photos the day I hiked Tent Ridge. My photos don’t do Tent Ridge justice at all… Like not even a little bit.

Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
Tent Ridge in Kananaskis

From here, Tent Ridge pretty much became my worst nightmare. I was new to hiking at the time and the steep climb up to the first peak nearly killed me. When I reached the top though, the first thing I saw was… Another peak.

After the first peak you’ll loose all the elevation you just gained (okay not all but it felt like it) and have to climb back up to an even higher peak. This climb is around 200m, but feels like a thousand. I’m not trying to sound dramatic here, but I totally sound dramatic.

Once you reach the true Tent Ridge summit though, it’s all smooth sailing.

Ridge Walkin’

After reaching the Tent Ridge summit, hikers will enjoy a (mostly) flat trail across the ridge that’s well packed and easy to follow. There are so many beautiful mountains close-by – make sure you stop every once in a while to admire them.

One of my favourite things about Tent Ridge was the literal drop-off that followed the majority of the ridge. I’ve got a thing for cliff drops, and let me tell you Tent Ridge didn’t disappoint.

Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
Looking down the cliff edge from Tent Ridge
Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
Mount Shark from Tent Ridge

At the end of Tent Ridge, hikers will find the beautifully blue Spray Lakes Reservoir. The reservoir is the star the show – if you’re hiking for sunrise, this is where you’ll want to watch from.

Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
Spray Lakes Reservoir from Tent Ridge
Completing the Loop

Your hike won’t end here. After reaching the end of Tent Ridge, hikers will descend down a steep slope. Trail runners may find it easier to run through parts of this descent, however it’s very steep so careful attention must be paid to foot placement. I highly recommend utilizing trekking poles and proper hiking boots (I use these/men’s version) with ankle support to help with balance.

After the steep part of the descent, the trail will re-enter the wooded area. The trail is pretty overgrown and hard to follow from this point. Luckily my hiking group had the Alltrails map downloaded, but we still got semi-lost. We ended up going completely off-trail, bushwhacking, and (literally) climbing down some ridiculous terrain.

Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis
A buncha happy hikers

I managed to injure my leg (just a slight gash, no biggie) right as I bushwhacked through the final row of trees before the parking lot. I was totally unprepared, but if I were to redo this hike I’d pack a small first aid kit, an emergency beacon with GPS, and extra water. At the time I only had a water bottle, which wasn’t enough. I now use a 2L Hydrapak for every hike in the Rockies.


Explore More Hikes In Kananaskis

Kananaskis is an area just outside of Banff that’s made up of multiple Wildland Areas and Provincial Parks. Kananaskis is my favourite hiking destination in the Canadian Rockies, so I urge you to explore more hikes in the area!

Click here to explore more of Kananaskis.


Featured Kananaskis Hikes:
Explore Kananaskis Country by Area:
Visit National Parks Nearby:

Looking for more hikes? Click here to explore all of my trail guides.



Tent Ridge hike in Kananaskis


Recommended Hiking Gear

The following items are some of my favourites – I never hit the trail without them!

PD Capture Clip

The Capture Clip by Peak Design is a sturdy, safe, and super convenient way to carry your camera while hiking or backpacking.

Find it on Amazon (CAD).

Find it on Peak Design (US).

Hydration Reservoir

A hydration reservoir is SO important. It holds 2L+ of water and keeps you hydrated on-trail. I use the 2L Hydrapak; it never leaks and has a detachable tube.

Day-pack

Things to look for in a good quality day-pack: sternum strap, hip belt (with pockets), and a breathable mesh system for your back. I use the Osprey Sirrus 24L pack (men’s version) and I LOVE it!


What To Wear Hiking in the Rockies

For a detailed guide on what to wear hiking in the Canadian Rockies, check out this post.

Choosing what to wear hiking can be confusing, but the secret to properly dressing for a hike is layering. You can mix and match the tops and bottoms you already own to make up your base layers, however in addition to those clothes you’ll need a few extra things:

Waterproof Jacket

A waterproof jacket is the most important layer for hiking – it keeps you warm and protects you from wind and rain. I use the Marmot Eco Precip Jacket (men’s version) which is totally a bang-for-your-buck. If rain is in the forecast, don’t forget to pack waterproof pants (men’s version) too.

Hiking Boots

A good pair of hiking boots are Gore-tex, provide ankle support, and are durable. I use the Scarpa Kailash boot (men’s version) and they’ve never let me down. You’ll also want a good quality pair of socks. I use Smartwool – they’re great quality and last an entire season.

Puffer Jacket

A puffer jacket acts as your warm layer. I use the hoodless Columbia Women’s Heavenly Jacket (men’s version). Alternatively you can use a fleece zip – I have this one (men’s version) from Columbia. Both of these options are perfect layers to keep you warm on windy, cold, or high elevation hikes.

Rocky Mountain hiking exposes you to different natural elements and conditions – it’s imperative that you’re prepared for whatever nature throws at you. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!

More: Day-hiking Gear Guide

More: What to Wear Hiking in the Canadian Rockies


Tent Ridge hike Kananaskis

Where to Stay in Kananaskis Country

Unless you plan on camping, lodging options are a bit limited in Kananaskis. Here are a few options for every budget:

Booking.com

  • HostelHI-Kananaskis Wilderness Hostel.
  • GlampingSundance by Basecamp. Sundance gives you the opportunity to camp in a regular tent, glamping tent, or tipi.
  • Mid-range hotelCrosswaters Resort in Kananaskis Village.
  • Luxury Stay – the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is one of the most luxurious getaways in the Banff-region. At the lodge you’ll find the Kananaskis Nordic Spa which is the most sought after spa in the region. Mount Engadine Lodge is another unique option which gives you the opportunity to lodge in yurts, glamping tents, and cabins. Gourmet food and great views included.
  • Stay nearby – If these Kananaskis stays aren’t what you’re looking for, check out lodging options in nearby Canmore or Banff.
  • Camping – Kananaskis offers tons of camping facilities scattered throughout the area and they almost always have availability. If you’re one to free-camp, Kananaskis has PLUZ (Public Land Use Zones) and Wildland areas, both of which you can random camp in for free. This is something I have yet to figure out in the Kananaskis region, but if you’re interested you can find more information about it here

Tent Ridge hike Kananaskis



Happy adventuring!

Taylor ♡


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About The Author

HI, I’m Taylor – the voice behind The Holistic Backpacker.

After moving to Banff National Park in 2020 I became an outdoor adventure enthusiast and vowed to never stop exploring.

I now spend my days travelling the world, climbing mountains, and spending nights under the stars in the Canadian Rockies backcountry.

I created The Holistic Backpacker so I could share my adventures and help connect people like you with the same amazing experiences.

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