Mount Hoffman is a good hike for a hot day as the trail is mostly in the trees. This easy summit features a waterfall and expansive views of the Sheep Valley.
If you’d like to escape the crowds, head to Bluerock Wildland Provincial Park! This quiet corner of Kananaskis boasts great hiking trails and beautiful campgrounds. After meeting Anna from On the go with kids at Bluerock Campground, we head to Indian Oils Day Use Area to hike Mount Hoffman (1829 metres). Although this trailhead is the staging area for several trails, there are only a few cars in the parking lot.
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Mount Hoffman Route Description
Our objective quickly comes into view as we approach the bridge over the Sheep River. Tiger Jaw Falls roars below, and the sound follows us along the fire road for quite a ways. Buffaloberry bushes and wildflowers adorn the roadsides adding a pop of color to an otherwise non-descript gravel road.
At the 1.7 kilometre mark, turn right at the cairn for the trail to Mount Hoffman. (If you reach the creekbed, you’ve gone too far.) About a kilometre later, stay left at the fork for the summit trail. For a fun detour, take the right fork to a viewpoint and see if you can find “Frankenstein” among the rock formations.
From the fork, it is only 1.4 kilometres to the summit. The trail becomes progressively steeper and is super steep for about 500 metres, but the kids (ranging from 5 to 11 years old) did well and didn’t complain. Going down took longer than going up though. Trekking poles are handy for this section!
When you leave the trees, it is a straightforward walk to the summit with a small section of loose shale. Enjoy views of Junction Mountain (to the south), Gibraltar (west), Mist Mountain (west), and more, then return the way you came. Mount Hoffman is a great half-day objective for kids who are ready for bigger hikes and more elevation gain. We hope to find “Frankenstein” next time!
Mount Hoffman Trail At a Glance
Note: Highway 546 is closed west of Sandy McNabb Campground from December 1 – May 14 each year.
- Distance: 8.2 km return
- Elevation gain: 480 metres
- Stroller friendly? No, due to deadfall on the trail and steep terrain near the top.
- Trailhead: Indian Oils Day Use (trail starts behind the outhouse)
- Nearest washrooms: Indian Oils Day Use
Know Before You Go
- A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to park in Kananaskis. Purchase your pass online from the Government of Alberta.
- You are in bear territory. Review our Bear Safety Tips and keep bear spray accessible.
- Dogs must be kept on a leash.
- Pack out all trash and dog poop.
What to Bring
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Waterproof mid-height hiking boots, a down hoody or fleece, toque, gloves, and windproof/waterproof shell are recommended year round. Trekking poles are useful for long hikes, steep descents, or when you’re carrying a fully-loaded backpack (or are babywearing). You should also carry The Ten Essentials including: water, extra food, extra clothes, a first aid kit, headlamp, GPS / compass / Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator* and map of the area, mineral sunscreen, bug spray (this DEET-free insect repellent contains 20% icaridin and will repel ticks), and bear spray. Carry bear spray in a Bear Spray Holster or Scat Griz Bear Spray Running Belt.
*A Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator is highly recommended for contacting Search & Rescue and emergency contacts in the event of an emergency, or communicating with friends and family when you are out of cell phone range. You can send text messages and your GPS coordinates via satellite, but a monthly service plan is required.
More Small Summits
- Mockingbird Lookout, Ghost River Wilderness
- Sleeping Buffalo Mountain (Tunnel Mountain), Banff
- Jumpingpound Summit Powderface Trail
- Upper Stoney Loop, Banff
