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    Hikes/Canada/Alberta/Kananaskis Country
    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Hard
    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.
    994 m
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    20.4 km
    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.
    6.5-9h
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
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    Piper Pass Trail

    Piper Pass Trail
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    Table of contents

    Piper Pass is a challenging full-day hike reserved for those with some route-finding skills and a fair amount of endurance. If you are up for the challenge, this is an incredible way to spend a day in the mountains, and your group will be glad you chose this stunning pass with unforgettable views.

    Route Description for Piper Pass Trail

    Begin your hike at the Elbow Lake trailhead and day-use area. Many beginner backpackers and families gear up here for an overnight to Elbow Lake backcountry, which you will pass by after 1.2 km. Take in the beauty of Elbow Lake before continuing on, as you have a long way to go to reach the pass. Continue on the easy trail and enjoy it now while there is no elevation gain. Come to a junction at kilometre 5 from the trailhead and take the cairned route to the left towards Tombstone mountain and Piper Pass. Ford a creek quickly here, and continue up the valley. 1.0 km from the junction, you will find a junction with a side trail to the right that leads to the Tombstone Mountain scramble trail. Pass Tombstone Mountain and keep making your way up the valley as the elevation begins to rise. The trail steepens up to Piper Pass, but the rewards are incredible from the top!

    Getting to the Piper Pass Trail Trailhead

    Take Highway 40 southbound for 60.0 km and turn left into the Elbow Lake trailhead parking area.

    Route Information

    • When to do:

      June-September

    • Backcountry Campsites:

      Elbow Lake

    • Pets allowed:

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly:

      No

    • Route Signage:

      Average

    • Crowd Levels:

      Moderate

    • Route Type:

      Out and back

    Piper Pass Trail Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

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