Three Sisters Pass Trail

Route Description for Three Sisters Pass Trail

Three Sisters Pass is a fun excursion- if you can find the trailhead. Remember to clock your odometer at the Nordic Centre for 11.9km to find the pullout for the trail. The trailhead is essentially just a rocky spot, so take your time picking it out. The trail itself is not well-maintained and crosses some rough and rocky sections. This trail is best reserved for experienced hikers as there is some considerable route finding involved.

The trail itself offers one of the best viewpoints in the area. It skips the common views that look down into the town of Canmore and offers simply stunning views of the Three Sisters. For such incredible views, this trail is relatively short, and will leave hikers impressed upon reaching the pass.

To begin the Three Sisters Pass trail, you will find the trail that leads clearly up towards the pass beside an open creek bed. The creek bed offers surprisingly nice scenery. The trail here is not clearly marked, however following the creekbed up to the pass is very straightforward. Keep an eye out for inukshuks as the trail crosses the river.

As you make your way up towards the treeline, the momentous cliffs of both Big Sister and Mount Lawrence Grassi surround you. This hike does a great job of making you feel like a small fraction of the natural space you are in. Note that the trail will get lost in parts, so you may end up bushwhacking. Once you’re in the final pus through the trees, you should be able to find a trail curving to the left to follow.

Some scramblers will choose to make their way up the surrounding peaks, but making it to the pass is an accomplishment in itself. The objective is extremely rewarding and makes a great place for a rest to take in the monumental rocky mountains around you.

Insider Hints for Three Sisters Pass Trail

• Clock your odometer at the Nordic Centre to ensure you find the correct trailhead near Goat Pond.
• Plan a picnic at the top if you head out in a good weather window.
• Plan to spend some time at the Spray Lakes day-use area nearby. There are picnic tables, restrooms, and great views.