Hike to the Headwaters: An Interpretive Hike to Where the Elbow Begins

About this experience

Join The Path Less Taken on an origin story of sorts-a journey to where it all begins. We'll hike to the headwaters of the Elbow River, a vital waterway that provides drinking water to more than 500,000 people in the Calgary region. Along the way, we'll discover how this mountain watershed supports our communities and develop a deeper appreciation for where our drinking water comes from every time we turn on the tap. After a short but steep 1.8 km climb, we'll arrive at the stunning turquoise waters of Elbow Lake, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Kananaskis Country. From there, we'll follow the shoreline before venturing deeper into the valley carved by the ancient Rae Glacier. As we explore this classic U-shaped glacial valley, we'll discover evidence of the glacier's powerful legacy, including the massive moraine deposits left behind as the ice retreated. At the head of the valley, we'll be rewarded with views of the glacier's remaining ice-a powerful reminder of the ancient forces that shaped this remarkable landscape and an opportunity to reflect on what its future may mean for our own. Logistics & Details We'll meet at 9:00 AM on August 22 at the Elbow Lake Trailhead. The trailhead can be accessed from either the north or south entrance of Highway 40. Because cell reception is limited in the area, participants will attend a brief Online Pre-Trip Check-in (August 20, 7:00 and 7:30 PM) prior to the hike. We'll review trip logistics, waivers, equipment, and answer any last-minute questions to ensure a smooth start on adventure day. Plan for a full day in the mountains, with a return to Calgary in the late afternoon. Includes: ACMG Hiking Guide, Interpretive Program, Hiking Poles, Snack Fitness & Mobility Level This hike requires a moderate level of fitness. The route is approximately 9 km return with 485 m of elevation gain. Participants should be comfortable hiking on uneven terrain, including sections of rock and loose scree. Giving Back Book any Elbow Valley adventure with The Path Less Taken, and 10% of your ticket price will support education programs offered by the Elbow River Watershed Partnership. Cancellation Policy - Cancellation by the Path Less Taken due to situations beyond control (park closures, highway closures, natural disasters, illness of the guide, heavy smoke, windchill of -25 and below) - participants can choose to transfer full payment to another PLT trip or be refunded their money in full. - Cancellations for a full refund must be made at least 3 days before the trip start date. - No refund for no shows

What to expect

1. Pre-Trip Check-in August 20 Because cell reception is limited in the area, participants will attend a brief Online Pre-Trip Check-in (August 20, 7:00 and 7:30 PM) prior to the hike. We'll review trip logistics, waivers, equipment, and answer any last-minute questions to ensure a smooth start on adventure day. Plan for a full day in the mountains, with a return to Calgary in the late afternoon.
2. Trailhead Meetup, August 22 We'll meet at 9:00 AM on August 22 at the Elbow Lake Trailhead. The trailhead can be accessed from either the north or south entrance of Highway 40.
3. Let's Hike! After a short but steep 1.8 km climb, we'll arrive at the stunning turquoise waters of Elbow Lake, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Kananaskis Country. From there, we'll follow the shoreline before venturing deeper into the valley carved by the ancient Rae Glacier. As we explore this classic U-shaped glacial valley, we'll discover evidence of the glacier's powerful legacy, including the massive moraine deposits left behind as the ice retreated. At the head of the valley, we'll be rewarded with views of the glacier's remaining ice-a powerful reminder of the ancient forces that shaped this remarkable landscape and an opportunity to reflect on what its future may mean for our own. Plan for a full day in the mountains, with a return to Calgary in the late afternoon.