Google Map

Rockies :: Alberta Foothills :: Lusk Ridge

GPS Track

Panoramic Views South from Lusk Ridge North Summit with Range of Snow Covered Front Range Peaks on Horizon

May 30, 2024

Mostly forested ridge sandwiched between Sibbald Trail to the North and Powderface Trail Road to the South-East.  There are several bumps forming horseshoe of a sort, earning nickname "Hunchback Hills".  Traverse is possible but entails lots of ups/downs, bushwhack and micro-terrain route finding.  Most simply ascend South Summit as presented on this Page , incidentally also  the highest point with spectacular 360 Views.

Trailhead is at east side of Powderface Trail Road, just across standard Jumpingpound Mtn parking area,  some 5km south of Dawson  Winter Gate (seasonally closed Dec 1 - May 15).  Initial part follows Lusk Pass trail (which ends at Barrier Lake), crossing Jumpingpound Creek to north side on solid wood bridge after few minutes.  This section is also shared with Trans-Canada Trail (TCT) and sees regular equestrian traffic.  Ridge Trail forks off 0.7km from trailhead;  junction was marked with cairn and flag as of May '24.  If in doubt download GPS Track Top of Page (Waypoint "1 - Lusk Trail").  After crossing wide logging area trail climbs fairly steeply then levels off and becomes faint after crossing deadfall area.   There are some cairns and flags, but generally just stay close to climber right escarpment, reaching open area with fantastic views ~1hr from Lusk Pass Trail.   South summit is 15-20min away and this part often has deep snowdrifts in early season;  I found gaiters very helpful as on occasion I was sinking above the knee.  Treeline exit below the summit (see Gallery) ends with short grassy hill hike to Highpoint that has humongous Cairn.   Panoramic 360 views are great and more than enough Reward for fairly modest effort.  This wide open clearing is also prone to strong year-round winds, offering little shelter.  On my visit I was able to find nice spot for quick break by descending west side meadow then ducking behind some low trees.  If not planning on continuing, simply return the same way.  It is very easy to go off trail - on my trip I had to consult my own GPS track several times.

It is also possible to reach Lusk Ridge from the North, starting from Sibbald Trail ~2km east from Horton Hill Trailhead.  This access becomes popular in winter months as Powderface Trail Road is closed south of Dawson Recreation Area.  Very little else works in advantage of this variation as most of the approach follows ugly logging areas with possibility of deep unconsolidated snow.  Ridge is reached near the apex with views nowhere as good as on South Summit.   This trip, just like Horseshoe Traverse, has low Reward and is not recommended.

Gallery