Burstall Pass

Dist: 16.1km   Elev: 580m   Time: 4h   Difficulty: 3/5

As part of our resolution to have 12 mountain adventures together this year, Mindy and I set out for #6: Burstall Pass. This trail is known for having one of the highest reward-to-effort ratios in Kananaskis, and Mindy and I both had frequent "Wow!" moments throughout the day.  This also results in the hike being very popular, so try to get an early start or consider an evening trip if you're seeking any kind of solitude. We arrived to a nearly-full parking lot at 9am!

Trail Description:
Park in the Burstall day-use parking lot, 41 km beyond the Canmore Nordic Centre on Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trail (Hwy 742). The trail begins with an hour or so of forest walking, with only minor elevation changes. After four kilometers we arrived at marshy gravel flats that required rock-hopping over numerous small streams.  The trail then returned to a forested area where a moderate climb brought us up to a flat and scenic alpine meadow with great views of surrounding peaks.  From here, one last climb was required to reach the pass, where we were amply rewarded with spectacular views of  the Spray River Valley. We stopped here for a lunch of PB&H (peanut butter and honey) sandwiches and milk (in a thermos to keep it cold) before returning the way we came.

The trail winds through forests like this for the first hour or so.

Arriving at the gravel flats

Views explode in all directions at this point

Robertson Glacier in the background feeds the many streams through this area

Commonwealth Peak towers above

Alpine meadow after the first climb

Mount Birdwood comes into view

Great views of Mount Birdwood, Pig's Tail, and Commonwealth Pea

Alpine terrain south of Burstall Pass

Panorama from Burstall Pass. The trail follows the valley below.

After a hot day of sunny weather, the water in the gravel flats was significantly higher on our return trip