Highline Loop

Canmore

Traverse high above the town of Canmore on the Highline Trail.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance: 19 km
Ascent: 694 m
Descent: 694 m
Duration: 1-2 hrs

Low Point: 1.3 km
High Point: 1.7 km
Gradient: 13˚

Canmore’s Highline Trail runs across the flanks of Mount Lawrence Grassi and Grassi Knob, high above the town of Canmore. The trail spends most of its time deep in the forest, but when it does break out of the trees, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the town of Canmore and the Bow Valley.

Canmore from "Highline" trail. Photo: Eric Lamoureux

Description

Several connector trails run from Highline down into the rest of the trail system, meaning that you can create loops of varying lengths and difficulties in this network. The route mapped here is one of the longest loop options available utilizing the Highline Trail. Since the primary climb to the top takes place on a road, it’s possible to shuttle this portion of the ride for some free vert.

While the Highline Trail does have a few chunky rock gardens in places, overall, the singletrack is flowy and smooth. The dark black dirt provides traction for days, and well-built berms in some of the corners help riders keep their momentum up.

Some riders report seeing incredible wildlife on this trail, including elk, moose, deer, coyotes, and bears. Canmore is smack-dab in grizzly bear country, so ensure that you’re taking appropriate precautions.

Sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgErOdGc1rw https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/highline-and-powerline-track-loop?u=i

Difficulty

Difficult

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability featuring larger and more unavoidable obstacles that may include, but not be limited to: bigger stones, roots, steps, and narrow curves. Compared to lower intermediate, technical difficulty is more advanced and grades of slopes are steeper. Ideal for upper intermediate riders.