Popular Canmore Hiking Area Shuttered by Rockslide Threat

A significant portion of an intensely popular hiking region west of Canmore, Alberta, has been closed to the public due to imminent rockslide danger. Provincial park authorities have enacted the closure, impacting the well-trafficked Grassi Lakes area.

Extensive Area Affected by Safety Concerns

The shutdown affects a substantial section of Spray Lakes Road, designated as Highway 742, and the Smith-Dorrien Trail. This includes the Grassi Lakes day-use area, the Grassi Lake interpretive trail, the Grassi Lake upper trail, and the Reclaimer Trails. The closure is in effect until further notice.

Officials have issued a stern warning, stating that a recent rockslide has created hazardous conditions for anyone using the roads. Analysis indicates that unstable rock formations remain above the roadway, posing a substantial risk of a secondary slide.

Assessment Underway, Reopening Timeline Uncertain

An ongoing assessment is being conducted to determine the extent of the instability and the necessary repairs. However, at this time, the timeline for remediation and the eventual reopening of the affected trails and roads remains unclear.

A detailed map outlining the perimeter of the closure has been made available online. Park authorities are urging visitors to adhere to the restrictions and maintain a safe distance from the impacted zone.

Alternative Access Points Remain Open

Despite the closure, several popular destinations within Peter Lougheed and Spray Valley Provincial Parks are still accessible. Day-use areas, the Spray Lakes West Campground, Ha Ling Peak, Miner’s Peak, East End of Rundle (EEOR), and the Goat Creek trailheads can be reached via Highway 40 South and the currently open segments of Spray Lakes Road/Highway 742/Smith-Dorrien Trail heading northbound.

Visitors planning to access these alternative areas should anticipate potentially longer travel times due to the revised routes.