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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
454 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.5 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Foran Grade and Windy Point

Panoramic views from the Foran Grade and Windy Peak hike in Kananaskis near Canmore
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Foran Grade and Windy Point Ridge are two smallish peaks in the front ranges providing great views of the surrounding ranges to the west and the prairie to the east. The views are gorgeous, especially considering the limited elevation you gain at just over 1000ft.

Route Description for Foran Grade and Windy Point

Parking at the gates on the 546 head west along the closed highway for about 1.5 km until you see the clearly signed Foran Grade trail. Follow the trail as you break away from the road and into the trees. Shortly after you will come into a meadow, where you might run into some free range cattle.

As you continue on the Foran Grade Trail you will gain elevation and quickly reach the summit. Leaving the Summit on trail heading WSW you will see our final destination Windy Point. The trail descends through switchbacks down to the saddle between the two peaks.

From the saddle you are confronted with a few options on how to proceed. We recommend that you follow the Windy Point Ridge trail, this route provides as well marked trail. The more adventurous can explore the unsigned but more direct paths to the summit.

After a final steep approach you will reach the summit of the Windy Point. The views from Windy Point make the whole hike worth it (no offense to Foran Grade). Take in the views of the Rockies (particularly Mount Rose, Banded Peak and Threepoint Mountain) towering over the treed foothills to the west.

Returning home, there are many options: You could follow the our out route-back (suggested), or alternatively, at the Saddle head down the mountain on the marked Windy Ridge trail to link up with the highway (shorter). Finally, you can explore the many minor trails down.

Insider Hints for Foran Grade and Windy Point

  • In the winter and early spring we recommend bringing microspikes as there may be residual snow and ice in the upper elevations.
  • In the summer you can park higher up on Sheep River trail (park right before the road takes a left heading west) to cut off 0.9mi from the route.
  • If you are looking for more scenery from the off you can walk along the Sheep River from the the Sandy McNab day use area connection withing our trail as the river and road converge.

Getting to the Foran Grade and Windy Point Trailhead

Closure of the winter gate forced our start at the inter gate closure at Sandy McNab day use area on Highway 546. Take highway 546 west from Turner Valley, and park either along the highway in the Winter or in the day use area in the summer.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Accessible Year Round - May -October suggested

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Toilets:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Foran Grade and Windy Point Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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