Montane Traverse Loop

Canmore

Accessible from town, this trail quickly can turn into a backcountry epic.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance: 16 km
Ascent: 488 m
Descent: 488 m
Duration: 1-2 hrs

Low Point: 1.3 km
High Point: 1.6 km
Gradient: 6˚

The Montane Traverse Trail traverses the flanks of the mountains to the north of Canmore. This burly ride may start right on the edge of town, but it quickly turns into a backcountry-style epic.

Description

The trail consists mostly of cross country-style singletrack. While mostly smooth, you can still expect to encounter a few rock gardens… you’re riding in the Canadian Rockies, after all.

Many different trails connect to the Montane Traverse, providing the option for a shorter ride or an even longer epic. The Horseshoe and G8 Loops are located just to the south and east, providing a logical extension.

Depending on which trail you take down from the Montane Traverse, you may either have a mellow descent or a rowdy rip down. Most locals prefer the technical descent known as the “Microwave Drop” that descends from the radio tower.

Sources: https://bikepirate.wordpress.com/2010/07/15/montane-traverse-ride-watch-out-for-the-microwave-drop/

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.