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

Statistics

1 - 2

hrs

488

m

488

m

6

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Difficult

Description

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. 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/