Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit
- Physical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
- Technical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
The Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit is the highest maintained trail in the Canadian Rockies. It’s a true pinnacle with great views and a nice alpine hike along the way. Bring lots of water as you’re exposed most of the day. The Trail is closed from April to late-June each year.
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Route Description for Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit
Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan is a great hike to test your endurance and get a beautiful view of a high summit. This trail can be done as a through hike from Dead Mans Flats, though we prefer the up and back from the Ribbon Creek parking lot.
Before you head off, make sure you have plenty of water. There is none on the hike and you are exposed most of the way. We’ve experienced many people running out of water, making this route harder than it already is.
From the parking lot, go north on Hidden Creek Trail for 300 m and take the hard-left turn to follow the path. There are occasional trails that veer off, however the path is well signposted. Follow the trail and it will lead you out of the trees where the ascent of Centennial Ridge begins 2.6 km from the trailhead.
As you ascend the ridge, beautiful views unfold to your left. Eventually on the top you can look down at some of the slopes of Nakiska Ski Hill, home of the 1988 Olympic Alpine Ski events. The ridge walk continues, with new and magnificent sights as you ascend. A highlight of this route is the unique rock formations known as the Rock Garden roughly 6.0 km from the trailhead (2,480 m). This is a wonderful place for a lunch, and some welcome shade.
The route through the rock garden offers many alternatives and the occasional use of hands, though no true exposure. Coming out of the rock garden it is a 240 m gain to the summit. This is another great location for a break, with astounding views in all directions.
The descent is the same route you came up.
Insider Hints for Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit
- This trial is closed annually from April 1st to June 21st for wildlife.
- Bring a lot of water. You’re working hard and there is little shade. We typically take 6L of water per person on warm days.
Getting to the Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit Trailhead
Take Highway 40 towards Nakiska and turn off on Mt. Allan Drive. Take the first left, the turnoff for the Delta Hotel and then quickly your first right on Ribbon Creek Rd. Park in the lot at the end.
Route Information
Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherCentennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit Reviews
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