Mad Cow and Swine Flu Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.0 km
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.
248 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Mad Cow and Swine Flu Loop is a combination of multi-use trails in Fernie that create a scenic loop through the forest along the lower slopes of Mount Proctor. Along the trail, you will pass through some serene stretches of woodland terrain and experience beautiful views of the surrounding mountains before wrapping up the hike alongside the flowing waters of Fairy Creek. Make sure to bring bear spray as grizzly bears are often spotted in the area.

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Route Description for Mad Cow and Swine Flu Loop

A popular spot for both hiking and mountain biking, the Mad Cow and Swine Flu trails combine to form a 6.0 km loop through the forest that provides hikers with a peaceful respite from the business of their everyday lives. Hikers looking to utilize this trail should always bring bear spray, as grizzly bears are frequently spotted on the trail and have at times resulted in trail closures.

The trail climbs gently uphill along the lower slopes of Mount Proctor and navigates through a dense network of routes that wind through the area. Apart from the beautiful forest setting and the intermittent views of the surrounding mountains that include Mount Fernie and Mount Proctor, the trail also ends up following closely alongside the flowing waters of Fairy Creek as it passes through a lovely meadow. Although this trail has some minor elevation changes, it’s suitable for hikers of most skill levels and features fairly easy-to-navigate terrain.

Getting to the Mad Cow and Swine Flu Loop Trailhead

To access the trailhead for the Mad Cow and Swine Flu Loop from Fernie, drive to the north along BC-3 for 1.5 km. Make a left turn at the Fernie Tourist Information Centre to enter the parking lot, where you will also find the trailhead.

Route Information

  • When to do

    April–October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Mad Cow and Swine Flu Loop Elevation Graph

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