Mesa Butte Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Mesa Butte
There is a complex network of trails in this area, many leading to the summit, but the one we followed was the most direct and started a few hundred meters north of the Mesa Butte equestrian area at a short access road to a gas well. Follow this road for a very short distance, then turn onto a trail to the left just before reaching the fenced well. It's impossible to miss. Ascend briefly, then emerge into a regrowth area.
There are a number of less worn trails that provide alternative paths to the summit and others used by hunters and game in the area. Stick to the most worn and you will be in great shape. The destination is in view for most of the hike so it is hard to steer wrong.
As we gain elevation we zig zag through the trees for a time before entering a beautiful grassy meadow full of wild flowers. Continue to gain elevation following the treeline (to your left) until you reach the summit.
The views from the top are top drawer for such a short hike ,and ample wildlife (we saw many mule deer, a couple partridge, and potentially wild horses) make this a nice outing. If you're competent with campfires, the fire pit at the top is a nice addition as well. Just be certain it's out when you leave (there is no water, so either bring some or use snow).
Insider Hints for Mesa Butte
- Pack a picnic and enjoy one of the more scenic fire pits you will find.
- If you travel in the winter the path may be snow covered so bring our map on a mobile device to help you find the route.
- There are a number of other trails including a longer version of this hike that set off from the rec centre.
Getting to the Mesa Butte Trailhead
Take highway 549 from Millarville, park either at the Mesa Butte Provincial Recreation Area, or slightly closer to the trail head in the ditch before the access road which is the first right after the Rec Area.Route Information for Mesa Butte
When to do:
Year Round
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Toilets:
Yes
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Poor
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Mesa Butte Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Mesa Butte
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
We took the longer route, and we enjoyed it.
- Trip Length
- 02:00
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Short hike with astonishing views.
- Trip Length
- 02:00
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
We enjoyed our hike and picnic here. The views are wonderful.
- Trip Length
- 01:30
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Very nice and easy hike. There are some beautiful views.
- Trip Length
- 02:00
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
One of the easiest and satisfying climbs in the park. It's not that hard, so I highly recommend it to people who don't want to sweat much.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Beautiful trail, nice and quiet hike offering great views for a shorter distance hike
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Views were beautiful and worth it despite the uphill climb. Was fairly muddy towards the start of the hike until we started to increase altitude. It has nice picnic table at the top as well
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Beautiful hike! You will not be disappointed no matter when you can visit.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
The fire pit at the top is great for a picnic. Wildlife here is fantastic!
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
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