Categories > Guides and Tips
Everything You Need to Know about Smutwood Peak in Kananaskis
- Where is Smutwood Peak
- How to Get to Smutwood Peak Trailhead
- Best Time to Go to Smutwood Peak
- What to Expect in Smutwood Peak
- Park Fees and Costs
- Trail Overview and Difficulty
- Trail Conditions and Preparation
- Safety Precautions
- How to Hike at Smutwood Peak
- Step 1. Go to the starting point
- Step 2. Enter Smuts Pass
- Step 3. Navigate the scree slopes
- Step 4. Enjoy the views
- Step 5. Reach the false summit
- Step 6. Scramble to the true summit
- Step 7. Descend the trail
- Where to Stay near Smutwood Peak
- Mount Engadine Lodge
- Coast Canmore Hotel
- Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
- Mount Kidd RV Park
- Mountain View Inn
- Where to Eat Near Smutwood Peak
- Mount Engadine Lodge Restaurant
- Summit Restaurant
- Forte Restaurant
- Blacktail Bar
- Woody's Pub and Patio
- FAQs about Smutwood Peak
Smutwood Peak in Alberta’s Kananaskis Country is a hiker’s paradise. Expect a challenging yet rewarding trek with stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful alpine meadows, see crystal-clear lakes, and maybe even spot some local wildlife.
Whether you’re looking for a great workout or just want to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, Smutwood Peak is the perfect adventure. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about planning your visit, including trail tips, essential gear, and what to expect along the way.
Where is Smutwood Peak
Smutwood Peak is located in Kananaskis Country, Alberta. It is situated within the Spray Valley Provincial Park, bounded by Mount Birdwood to the south, the Smuts Pass to the north, Commonwealth Peak to the west, and the beautiful alpine meadows to the east.
How to Get to Smutwood Peak Trailhead
Media from zannavandijk
By car:
- Starting Point – Smith-Dorrien Road: Start your journey by driving on Smith-Dorrien Road, the main route to Smutwood Peak.
- Finding the Turn-Off: Watch for a marked turn-off to Mount Engadine Lodge. It’s easy to see, and you need to take it to reach Smutwood Peak.
- Bridge Crossing: After taking the turn-off to Mount Engadine Lodge, you’ll reach a bridge. Cross it to continue.
- Left Turn onto the Old Logging Road: After the bridge, drive until you see the first road on the left. It’s an old logging road and easy to notice.
- Reaching the Parking Area: Follow the old logging road to the end, where you’ll find a parking spot. It marks the start of the trail to Smutwood Peak, and you can park here and get ready to begin the hike.
- Accessibility: You can easily reach the parking area with a regular car; a 4×4 vehicle is not necessary.
- Navigation: If you’re using Google Maps, you’ll easily find the Smutwood Peak trailhead. Just follow the navigation instructions, and you’ll arrive at the parking area.
Best Time to Go to Smutwood Peak
Feel free to give this hike a shot starting in June, but keep in mind that snowshoes and microspikes might come in handy. For the optimal Smutwood experience, aim for July through early October.
If you wait until late September or early October, you’re in for a treat with stunning fall colours.
What to Expect in Smutwood Peak
Park Fees and Costs
To hike Smutwood Peak, you’ll need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. The pass costs $15 per day per vehicle, or you can opt for an annual pass for $90. This fee helps maintain the park and ensures that the trails remain accessible and safe for everyone.
Trail Overview and Difficulty
The hike to Smutwood Peak is a challenging 19.3-kilometre (12-mile) round trip, perfect for experienced hikers. It’s an out-and-back trail, meaning you’ll return the same way you came.
You’ll start in the forest, pass through meadows, and then face steep, rocky sections near the summit. The terrain varies from rocky paths to forested areas and open meadows. The final part involves scrambling over loose rocks.
Trail Conditions and Preparation
The trail can be muddy and slippery after rain, so wear good hiking boots and be prepared for changing weather. There are no facilities along the trail, so make sure to pack enough water, snacks, and any other essentials.
Safety Precautions
Bears are around, so carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise as you hike to avoid surprising any wildlife. Additionally, watch out for avalanche risks, especially in the spring and winter. Always check the avalanche forecast before heading out.
With the right preparation, you can have an incredible adventure at Smutwood Peak and soak in the beautiful scenery of Kananaskis.
How to Hike at Smutwood Peak
Media from davetschneider
| Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult ●●●●○ |
| Distance | 17.9 km / 11.1 miles |
| Elevation | 961m |
| Duration | 5 – 10 hours |
| Trail Type | Out and back |
| Surface | The trail has packed dirt with roots and rocks showing, and there’s loose dirt as you climb up to the ridge |
To hike Smutwood Peak, start by following the trail up Commonwealth Creek Valley. Once you reach Smuts Pass, continue on to the High Col. From there, head north along the ridge to reach the summit of Smutwood Peak.
The trail is easy to follow, and you’ll enjoy breathtaking views even before you reach the summit, especially the impressive west face of Mount Smuts.
Step 1. Go to the starting point
Media from samanwarner
Before you head out, make sure you have a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. You’ll need this to park at Provincial Parks and public lands in Kananaskis Country and Bow Valley.
You can get a daily pass for $15 or an annual pass for $90. If you’re walking, horseback riding, or biking in, there’s no fee.
At the trailhead, the hike begins along an old logging road that leads partly through the forest until you merge with Commonwealth Creek. Look out for an incredible waterfall and listen for the whistling marmots.
Step 2. Enter Smuts Pass
Media from jeniaromanovskiy
Around the 6 km mark, start the steep ascent into Smuts Pass. This section is about 2 km long and quite steep, but it eases up afterward.
Be ready for a tougher hike if it has rained recently, as the lower parts of the trail often get muddy after summer storms, so bring waterproof boots. Enjoy the increasingly stunning views of Mount Birdwood and Birdwood Lakes as you climb.
Step 3. Navigate the scree slopes
Media from alansgranolaadventures
After passing through Smuts Pass, continue onto the scree slopes above Birdwood Lakes. This section is about 1.5 km and takes roughly one hour to reach the true summit of Smutwood Peak.
Be prepared for loose rocks and a more technical climb, especially depending on the season. Remember to download an offline map for this hike since there won’t be any cell service along the way.
Step 4. Enjoy the views
Media from michaeltheexplorer
Take in the breathtaking views of Mount Birdwood and Birdwood Lakes as you ascend, but be mindful of the increasing wind at higher elevations.
Step 5. Reach the false summit
Media from explorewithbron
At the 8.5 km mark, arrive at a false summit with impressive views of Mount Birdwood and the two lakes below.
Decide here if you want to continue to the true summit or enjoy the views from this spot. Feel free to bring your dogs along, but keep them on a leash.
Step 6. Scramble to the true summit
Media from davetschneider
Proceed with the final scramble to the summit. This section is very exposed and can be challenging, especially if you’re not experienced with this terrain. The technicality of this section can be considered a class 2 scramble.
Be sure to learn what to do if you encounter a bear and carry bear spray, as bear activity is common in the area.
Step 7. Descend the trail
Media from emmaocroinin
Descend the trail back to the starting point. The descent is much quicker than the ascent, so enjoy the faster pace on your way down. Remember, no campfires are allowed along the trail.
Total duration
Depending on your fitness level and how much time you spend at the top, the entire hike should take between 5 and 10 hours to complete.
What to Wear or Bring When Hiking in Smutwood Peak
Ensure a successful hike by packing:
- Boots with sturdy ankle support
- Hiking poles
- Raincoat
- Puff jacket or jacket
- Bear spray
- Hand warmers
- Medium-sized backpack
- Water and a filter
- Snacks
- Headlamp
- Microspikes (seasonal)
- Gloves and beanie
Where to Stay near Smutwood Peak
Mount Engadine Lodge
Media from mountengadine
Address: 1 Mount Shark Rd, Canmore, AB T1W 0B9
Phone: +1 587-807-0570
Opening hours: Open daily
Pricing: $$$
Just a stone’s throw away from the Smutwood Peak Trailhead sits Mount Engadine Lodge, nestled inside Spray Valley Provincial Park. It’s the ideal accommodation choice if you’re planning to explore more hikes in Kananaskis.
The lodge offers TV-free rooms with cozy sitting areas and Wi-Fi. Suites come with gas fireplaces and private balconies, while a separate chalet offers two rooms and one suite.
You’ll be treated to a 2-course breakfast, buffet lunches, afternoon teas, and evening meals – all served in a relaxed dining room with stunning mountain views.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for that unique backcountry camping experience in Alberta without sacrificing traditional comforts, check out their year-round, all-inclusive, pet-friendly glamping tents, even available in winter!
Coast Canmore Hotel
Media from coastcanmorehotel
Address: 511 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, AB T1W 1N7
Phone: +1 403-678-3625
Opening hours: Open daily
Pricing: $$$
At Coast Canmore, you’ll find spacious rooms with newly refurbished interiors and stunning mountain views to greet you after a day of exploring. With comfy big beds and all the essentials like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, it’s a great spot to unwind.
They’ve got a cool on-site restaurant and bar, an indoor pool, and some meeting rooms. It’s a pretty good bang for your buck. The rooms are laid back, with full-length windows for those mountain views.
If you go for the fancier rooms, you might score a minifridge, microwave, or even a whirlpool tub. Some ground-floor ones even have patios.
Pro tip:
Oh, and if you’re planning more adventures beyond Smutwood Peak, it’s just about 5.6 km from some pretty sweet trails at Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park.
Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
Media from kananaskislodge
Address: 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis Village, AB T0L 2H0
Phone: 1-403-591-7711
Opening hours: Open daily
Pricing: $$$$
So, if you’re the lone wolf in the family looking for a Smutwood Peak hiking adventure, but the rest are after a different scene, think about crashing at Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. It’s a tad over an hour from Smutwood Peak, but hey, that’s doable.
You’ll get more room to stretch out, and there’s stuff for everyone to enjoy in the beautiful Kananaskis Valley. Kids can have a blast at the indoor waterpark, dive into arts and crafts, or hit the slopes for some skiing – depending on the season, of course.
When hunger strikes, there are six places to grab a bite, from Italian to steakhouse to deli vibes. And if you’re up for a chilled-out evening, there’s a pub with pool tables – a great spot to unwind.
Pro tip:
Check out their website for some cool Specials and Packages. Oh, and they’ve got a spa, indoor pool, and a hot tub if you’re in the mood for some extra relaxation.
Mount Kidd RV Park
Media from mountkiddrvpark
Address: 1 Mount Kidd Dr, Kananaskis Village, AB T0L 2H0
Phone: +1 403-591-7700
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: $$
If you’re rolling with a trailer or RV, Mount Kidd RV Park could be your spot. It’s roughly an hour from Smutwood Peak and happens to be one of the more wallet-friendly options. Open year-round, they’ve got seasonal services to keep you comfy.
To paint a picture, it’s not just a campground; they’ve got spots for motorhomes, trailers, tents, and campers. There are also tennis courts, a playground, and a common room for some chill time.
And if you’re craving more than just Smutwood, they’ve got some killer trails and epic views to explore. It’s the perfect spot for outdoor lovers who want an adventure without going full-on backcountry.
Pro tip:
It’s a good call to keep your dogs on a leash here – there are quite a few furry friends around. Just a heads up, the barking is a bit of a constant.
Mountain View Inn
Media from mountainviewinncanmore
Address: 100 Kananaskis Way, Canmore, AB T1W 2X2
Phone: +1 403-678-0992
Opening hours: Open daily
Pricing: $$$
Tucked in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Mountain View Inn stands out as one of the more budget-friendly spots to crash in Canmore, Alberta. Perfect for travellers seeking a comfy yet reasonably priced stay in the Canadian Rockies.
And hey, if you forgot a few things in your rush to pack or you’re feeling peckish, no worries – the inn is just a 12-minute stroll from downtown Canmore’s lovely restaurants and shops. Plus, it’s only 5.7 km from Canmore Nordic Centre if you’re up for some outdoor fun.
Now, let’s talk rooms- they’re simple and airy, and some even come with sweet mountain views. You’ve got the basics like cable TV, and if you’re feeling a bit extra, certain rooms throw in minifridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers.
Pro tip:
Just a quick heads up: they’ve got a guaranteed check-in time set for 4 pm to make sure everything’s tip-top for you. If you need to check in earlier, they do offer that option for an additional fee.
Where to Eat Near Smutwood Peak
Mount Engadine Lodge Restaurant
Media from mountengadine
Address: 1 Mount Shark Rd, Canmore, AB T1W 0B9
Phone: +1 587-807-0570
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
If you find yourself at Mount Engadine, you’re in for a treat. Their restaurant whips up some awesome Canadian cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, all while you kick back in a casual setting with stunning mountain views.
Here’s the scoop for overnight guests – all your meals are covered in the accommodation rates. Yep, that includes a hearty breakfast, a packed lunch, a delightful afternoon tea with charcuterie, and a fancy three-course plated dinner.
But even if you’re not crashing overnight, you can still swing by their restaurant for a taste. Day visitors are welcome for afternoon tea at $35 per person or dive into their dinner service at $125 per person.
Pro tip:
If you’re dropping in for the day, it’s smart to give them a shout and snag a reservation. Every now and then, their restaurant shuts down for events, so a quick call ahead ensures you’re all good to go.
Summit Restaurant
Media from kananaskisgolf
Address: 1 Mount Lorette Dr, Kananaskis Village, AB T0L 2H0
Phone: +1 403-591-7088
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Golf season)
Pricing: $$$
Check out The Summit Restaurant at the Kananaskis Country Golf Course – it’s a gem for any occasion!
Picture this – they’ve got one of the best patios in Kananaskis Valley, maybe even in the entire Canadian Rockies. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Kidd, it’s the perfect place to make memorable moments.
And get this – they’re open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, no matter the weather throughout the golf season. Their menu is delightful, offering a bit of everything from small bites to well-crafted dishes, like Kettle Chips and Dip to Teriyaki Salmon Bowl.
To top it off, they’ve got a killer wine list, a solid beer selection, and some fancy cocktails. Whether you’re into golf or not, everyone’s welcome!
Pro tip:
Booking a table at The Summit Restaurant is a breeze! You’ve got three easy options: book on their website, give them a call at 403-591-7070 ext. 324, or find them on Open Table.
Forte Restaurant
Media from forte.kananaskis
Address: 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis, AB T0L 2H0
Phone: +1 403-591-6272
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
Forte, nestled within the picturesque Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, is a modern mountain dining destination. From sunrise to sunset, they’ve got your culinary cravings covered.
Imagine kicking off your day with a relaxed breakfast of eggs and mimosas. And as the sun sets, Forte’s kitchen springs to life, enticing you with a bottle of wine and a mouthwatering margherita pizza straight from the wood-fire ovens.
Not to mention, their modern Italian menu is a delight for the taste buds, offering tempting options like roasted meats, fresh salads, and homemade pasta that’ll leave you wishing for a larger appetite.
Pro tips:
You’ve got to try the pesto rigatoni and the lasagna – they’re absolute must-haves!
Blacktail Bar
Media from blacktail.bar
Address: 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis, AB T0L 2H0
Phone: +1 403-591-7711
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Friday: 2:00 PM –12:00 AM; Saturday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Check out Blacktail Bar, a modern mountain lounge right in the heart of Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. It’s where you can sip on handcrafted cocktails, savour regional beers, and dive into a mix of healthy and hearty dishes.
Located conveniently off the main lobby, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back lunch or a toast to a day well spent.
Whether you’re settling in for a full meal, sharing small plates by the roaring fireplace, or unwinding at the bar, Blacktail Bar offers an unforgettable taste of refined mountain living.
Pro tips:
Drop by for appetizers and drinks before your dinner, or make it your go-to spot for a quiet nightcap before calling it a day.
Woody’s Pub and Patio
Media from kananaskislodge
Address: 2 Terrace Dr, Kananaskis, AB T0L 2H0
Phone: +1 403-591-6272
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Friday to Sunday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$
At Woody’s, the rustic charm of a Canadian log cabin meets the welcoming atmosphere of a neighbourhood pub – hence the name!
With a selection of 50 Alberta craft beers and delicious homemade burgers and fries, along with other comforting alpine-inspired dishes, Woody’s is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure in beautiful Kananaskis.
You can enjoy a casual hangout, a relaxed vibe, or some lively fun at Woody’s. Bask in the summer sun on our rooftop patio or cozy up indoors during the winter.
Pro tip:
If you’re not sure what to order, we highly recommend trying their tandoori masala chicken wings, nachos, and chicken burger. They’re all delicious choices!
