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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.
Moderate
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.
761 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.7 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.
4-6h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
9.0 (1 reviews)
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead
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Prairie View Trail

Prairie View Trail
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Table of contents

Prairie View is a must-do in the Barrier Lake and Highway 40 area. It is a moderate trail that is easy to follow and offers incredible views. The prairie view is like no other and is the perfect place to get your photos taken. The trail is made up of easy switchbacks that lead to an incredibly rewarding summit. There are options to continue on with a scramble to the summit of Yates Mountain.

Route Description for Prairie View Trail

Prairie View is an extremely rewarding hike for the type of trail it is. The trail follows switchbacks up to an incredible viewpoint that allows you to look out over Barrier Lake and the Rockies on one side, and the foothills and prairies on the other.

Starting from the parking area, take the trail to the north towards the damn. Cross the damn and make your way up a gravel slope staying on the main trail. You’ll come to a junction with Stoney Trail after 1km and continue straight. In 600 m, you will come to a signed junction where you will follow signs for Prairie View and Yates Mountain.

From the junction, follow the decommissioned fire road for 1km before meeting the switchbacks. These are wide and easy to follow. After nine switchbacks, you will trend left for 1.0 km before reaching the final stage to the viewpoint. Make your way up the large rocks to find yourself at the main viewpoint. This is an amazing spot to break for lunch and photos before returning the way you came.

Find other amazing hikes in Kananaskis Country

Getting to the Prairie View Trail Trailhead

From the junction with the Trans Canada Highway and Highway 40, take Highway 40 for 7.5mi and turn right into the Barrier Lake day use area. Park here and begin your hike at the trail sign.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Extreme

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Prairie View Trail Elevation Graph

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