Three Sisters Pass Trail Route Guide

Route Description for Three Sisters Pass Trail

Three Sisters Viewpoint Hike
The Three Sisters Pass Trail leads to one of the most striking alpine perspectives in the Canmore area: the Three Sisters viewpoint. This route is a rewarding but challenging excursion, best suited to confident and experienced hikers. Finding the trailhead can be tricky, so be sure to reset your odometer at the Canmore Nordic Centre and watch closely for the pullout at 11.9km. The trailhead itself is little more than a rocky clearing.

Once on the route, hikers will quickly realize that this is not a maintained trail. The terrain is rough and rocky, and navigation skills are required throughout. Despite these challenges, the Three Sisters viewpoint delivers exceptional scenery that makes the effort worthwhile. Unlike many popular Canmore hikes, this route avoids views of town and instead focuses entirely on the dramatic peaks ahead.

Hiking to the Three Sisters Viewpoint

To begin the Three Sisters viewpoint hike, follow the faint trail climbing beside an open creek bed. The creek bed provides pleasant scenery and serves as a useful navigation reference early on. While trail markings are minimal, staying close to the creek generally keeps you on course. Inukshuks placed along river crossings can help confirm your direction.

As you gain elevation toward treeline, the terrain becomes more rugged. The cliffs of Big Sister and Mount Lawrence Grassi rise sharply around you, reinforcing the remote feel of this hike. The Three Sisters viewpoint begins to reveal itself gradually as the valley opens up. Be prepared for sections where the trail fades entirely and brief bushwhacking is unavoidable.

In the final push through the trees, look carefully for a faint path curving left toward the pass. Reaching the Three Sisters viewpoint is an accomplishment in itself, offering expansive views of the Three Sisters massif and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

Why the Three Sisters Viewpoint Is Worth the Effort

The Three Sisters viewpoint offers one of the closest and most immersive perspectives of Canmore’s iconic peaks. From the pass, hikers can sit, rest, and take in uninterrupted mountain scenery without the crowds found on more accessible trails. The combination of rugged terrain, route-finding challenges, and dramatic views makes the Three Sisters viewpoint hike a memorable alpine experience.

What’s New at Three Sisters Viewpoint in 2026

There are no major changes to access, route conditions, or navigation challenges for the Three Sisters viewpoint hike in 2026. The trail remains unmaintained, with route finding required throughout. Seasonal snowpack and high water levels may still impact conditions early in the hiking season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Three Sisters viewpoint hike suitable for beginners?

No. The Three Sisters viewpoint hike is best reserved for experienced hikers. The route involves rough terrain, unmarked sections, and occasional bushwhacking.

How difficult is navigation on the Three Sisters viewpoint trail?

Navigation can be challenging. The trail is faint in many areas, and hikers should be comfortable using landmarks such as creek beds and inukshuks to stay on route.

When is the best time to hike to the Three Sisters viewpoint?

Late summer to early fall generally offers the most reliable conditions. Earlier in the season, snow and high water crossings can make reaching the Three Sisters viewpoint more difficult.

Can you continue beyond the Three Sisters viewpoint?

Some scramblers choose to continue onto nearby peaks, but reaching the Three Sisters viewpoint alone is a worthy and satisfying goal for most hikers.

For those interested in exploring the Canadian Rockies on longer, supported routes, there are several guided hiking tours in Canada that showcase alpine scenery similar to the Three Sisters viewpoint.