Alberta
Canadian Province

Alberta is a province in Western Canada. Its landscape encompasses mountains, prairies, desert badlands and vast coniferous forests. It has more than 600 lakes, and rich mineral deposits. In the west, the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks have glaciers in the Columbia Icefields. The Waterton Glacier International Peace Park is a biosphere reserve that straddles the southern border with the USA.

Population: 4.371 million (2019) StatCan

Capital: Edmonton

Time Zone: (GMT-6) MST

Alberta Trails

Alberta, Canada offers several long-distance hiking trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the province. Here is a list of some notable long-distance hiking trails in Alberta:

1. Great Divide Trail: The Great Divide Trail (GDT) is a rugged and remote trail that spans approximately 1,200 kilometers (750 miles) through the Canadian Rockies from the US border to the northern boundary of Jasper National Park. It offers challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery.

2. Northover Ridge Trail: This 40-kilometer (25-mile) trail is located in Kananaskis Country, near the Highwood Pass. It is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, including panoramic views of glaciers, peaks, and lakes.

3. Skyline Trail: Located in Jasper National Park, the Skyline Trail is a popular multi-day hike that covers around 44 kilometers (27 miles) through the stunning Canadian Rockies. Hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of mountains, glaciers, and turquoise-colored lakes.

4. Tonquin Valley Trail: The Tonquin Valley Trail is a 44-kilometer (27-mile) trail in Jasper National Park. It winds through subalpine meadows, forests, and along the shores of pristine lakes, providing opportunities for wildlife sightings.

5. North Boundary Trail: Situated in Waterton Lakes National Park, the North Boundary Trail is a 21-kilometer (13-mile) trail that offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding mountains. Hikers can enjoy diverse ecosystems and encounter wildlife along the way.

6. Willmore Wilderness Park: Willmore Wilderness Park, located near the town of Grande Cache, offers various long-distance hiking options. The park covers over 4,600 square kilometers (1,776 square miles) of untouched wilderness, providing opportunities for remote backpacking adventures.

These are just a few examples of long-distance hiking trails in Alberta. It’s important to research and plan your hikes carefully, considering factors such as trail conditions, weather, and safety precautions. Additionally, always ensure you have the necessary permits and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine wilderness areas.