Hiking Mount Indefatigable, Alberta

One of Kananaskis’ Steepest Ridges

Located in the Smith-Dorrien Valley, Mount Indefatigable is one of the steepest ridges in Kananaskis and a tough scramble that requires good balance and even better hiking boots.

For those who aren't as sure-footed, or who aren't confident in their mountain scaling skills, a walking stick (or 2) is recommended.

Mount Indefatigable

Mount Indefatigable was given its name in 1917, after the battlecrusier, HMS Indefatigable. The name didn't do much to protect the vessel - it was the first ship to be sunk during the 1916 Battle of Jutland. The mountain, however, lives up to its name. The definition of indefatigable is, "incapable of being tired out; not yielding to fatigue; untiring."

Persistence is a virtue that pays off in most situations in life, and this hike is no exception. Keep pushing upwards and onwards even though your legs may be screaming - the delightful viewpoint at the top before the meadow is well worth it. If you are so inclined, you can hike up and through the meadow to a lake (keep an eye out for grizzlies, however), or, for the serious hiker, up to the south summit.

The Hiking Experience

Indefatigable has something for everyone. For those who aren't keen on going high up, the Elekes Viewpoint is easily reached within the first 30 to 40 minutes of the hike. There are also several paths snaking up the mountain - the long and windy (and less steep) or the more direct route, which entails climbing up some serious ridges, which can be a bit scary on a windy day and is recommended only for the uber fit adrenaline junkie. Allow a minimum of 1.5 hours each way.

It's a popular trail, so be on the lookout for groups coming in the opposite direction. Most often, one group will have to stand to the side to let the other group pass. While it's often busy, it can be helpful to stop in at the Barrier Lake Visitor Information Centre (located along Highway #40) to get the latest on trail closures and bear sightings in the area. It should be noted that Indefatigable is no longer maintained by the provincial park, so information that is specific to the trail won't be provided.

To access Indefatigable, take the Trans-Canada Highway to Kananaskis Trail (Highway 40) and park at the North Interlakes lot.