Barrier Lake parking to Lookout
Posted May 19th, 2007 by OldDogNewTrick
Distance:
12.2 km
Difficulty:
Moderate
Elev. gain:
600 meters
Time required:
4 - 7 hours
Bikes permitted:
Yes
Dogs permitted:
NoDirections to trail head
Park at Barrier Lake day use area which is approximately 10 kilometers south on highway #40 from the turnoff off highway #1. Walk across the dam and up hill to Stoney Trail. Follow Stoney Trail to junction. At junction, pick up on Prairie View Trail and follow it along McConnell Ridge until you see the radio reflector. Hike another kilometer to reach the Barrier Lake Fire Lookout.
Hazards on trail
Trail is generally wide open except for a short section of rocky terrain.
Hike Description
A moderate hike through a wooded trail that opens up at different places with views to the north over the Bow Valley, and south into the Kananaskis River valley. If you want to make this hike into a circuit, adding only a couple of kilometers return from the lookout to the parking lot via the Jewell Pass Trail. It is a nice walk in the forest and has the added bonus of a small waterfall. The GPS track for the circuit is also included.
Hike Photos
Elevation Profile Image
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| May17_BarrierLake.gpx | 94.35 KB |
| Jewell_Pass_Barrier_Lake_GPS_Track.gpx | 41.05 KB |
Thanks for Posting
I had not heard of this hike. Looks great. I think I will give it a try over the weekend. I did not think you could hike to this elevation in this area at this time of year without hitting snow.