Thunder Mountain Scramble
Table of contents
Thunder Mountain is an excellent beginner to intermediate scramble in the Crowsnest region. This is a great choice if you are driving down from Calgary or making your way north from Crowsnest or Waterton. The trail is easy to follow and isn’t too challenging. The views are astounding from the summit, and making your way down is simple.
Route Description for Thunder Mountain Scramble
From the pullout, look for an old skid road on the side of the highway. The trail starts by gaining some elevation along this dirt road and making its way up the slope. The trail can be steep at first and then arrives at a nice plateau. Not many views appear from here, but you can see the next section of trail ahead of you including the false summit. Some cliff sections are in the line of sight, so pay attention before beginning the scramble segment.
The trail follows the ridge up a few cliff bands and continues up to the false summit where the true summit ridge is revealed. The scramble sections are short and perfect for intermediate scramblers. After reaching the false summit, you will be greeted with an easy ridge traverse to the true summit. There is some loose rock on the way that may be slippery. Once you get to the true summit, you will be able to see the surrounding peaks and valleys all around. The Old Man River is easily visible below the summit. Making your way down is simple, and the scramble sections aren’t too challenging.
Getting to the Thunder Mountain Scramble Trailhead
To get to Thunder Mountain trailhead, take Highway 3 eastbound from Crowsnest towards Lundbreck. Turn onto AB-22 N and follow this until you reach the Maycroft Provincial Recreation Area. Turn left onto Township Road 101A. Stay on this road for 17.8 km and pull over on the left side at a sharp bend in the road. You will be across from Old Man River when you pull over.
Route Information
When to do:
May-September
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
Yes
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Poor
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Thunder Mountain Scramble Elevation Graph
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