Pig’s Back Trail
Table of contents
The Pig’s Back is a route to a prominent feature along the Commonwealth Ridge Traverse. You will hike up Commonwealth Creek before reaching Commonwealth Lake and finally the Pig’s Back. There is some route-finding required, so make sure you are familiar with your objective before setting out for the day.
Route Description for Pig’s Back Trail
The Pig’s Back trail in Kananaskis starts from the pullout on the Spray Lakes Road. Find a trail that leads west from the road between Mount Smuts and Mount Birdwood along Commonwealth Creek. Depending on where you park, you might see two trails leading up the valley, stay on the right, closer to the creek. You will be on the Commonwealth Ridge route, however, after 1.7 km there will be a trail to the left, which you will avoid. Stay straight, and after 2.3 km from the trailhead, you will take the trail to the left for Commonwealth Lake. Pass by the beautiful lake before continuing to the Pig’s Back. The Pig’s Back is a prominent feature that is visible from the lake, so you should be able to gain the ridge that is part of the Commonwealth ridge traverse route, before heading northeast to the clear feature that is the Pig’s Back.
Getting to the Pig’s Back Trail Trailhead
Turn onto Highway 40 at the Stoney Nakoda Resort and Casino off of the Trans Canada Highway. Follow Highway 40 for 50.0 km before turning right onto Kananaskis Lakes Trail. In 2.0 km, turn onto the Smith-Dorrien/Spray Lakes Road toward Canmore. Stay on this road for 24.0 km before pulling over onto the shoulder on the left side of the road below Mount Smuts and Mount Birdwood.
Route Information
When to do:
June-September
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
Poor
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Pig’s Back Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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