Mount Lady Macdonald Scramble in Winter

The Mount Lady Macdonald trail begins at Cougar Creek, starting out as a leg burner through the forest, then meandering through boulders, halfway up. The boulders, sparse forest, and views of the Bow River Valley make for a classic mountain landscape that isn't always offered by forested walks to lakes, or hikes up scree slopes. But don't forget that Cougar Creek is aptly named – make sure to bring bear spray and brush up on safety protocol ahead of time in case you encounter a cougar! This hike is doable in all four seasons but be sure to check ahead for weather conditions no matter what time of year.

Around 2300 meters, you can stop at the abandoned, half-built tea house to rest and recover before the final 300 m steep summit push. At this point, the trail gets blown out due to exposure to the elements. Hiking poles and crampons make the ascent far less nerve-wracking, but the loose scree and 30 degree slope still won't make things easy. As much as possible, stay on exposed scree, where footing isn't always solid, but is at least visible. Luckily, the scree that makes the ascent difficult also makes the descent a breeze.

The ridge leading to the summit of Mount Lady Macdonald is affectionately known as a Knife-Edge Ridge. To one side, there's nothing to catch you from sliding down the mountain if you fall. To the other, there's a straight drop. When completely dry, the ridge is less than a meter wide, and in the winter, wind-swept snow makes crossing very dangerous—this should only be attempted by experts.

There is no shame in choosing not to attempt Knife Edge Ridge. Remember the number one rule when scrambling: getting up is optional, getting down is mandatory. While the abandoned tea house also doubles as a helipad, no successful day on the mountain ends with a helicopter ride to the hospital. Sub-summit views are just as breathtaking and worthwhile—plus, it provides motivation to get back out when conditions are more favorable. A true scrambler's career always has a few (or many) failed summits!

Driving Directions: Westbound on the TransCanada highway, exit at Canmore towards the Silvertip Resort. Follow Palliser Trail Road, then turn left at Benchlands Trail Road. The trailhead for Mount Lady Macdonald Trail begins at the northeast end Cougar Creek parking lot, just before a bridge.

Because the trail is somewhat washed out, if you don't spot the trail on top of the river bank to the left, there is a red marker on a tree before the debris net. The marker leads up a steeper route, so keep an eye out for the trail if you're looking to save energy.