Centennial Ridge and Mount Allan Summit

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.