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Table Mountain in The Fall – Hot and Up!

Hiking Table Mountain was a real treat. Although Pincher Creek is known for the severe wind gusts, it was scorching hot the day we went. If you are a beginner, I would probably not recommend this trail. Though achievable, it is quite technical, and you are coming down on loose scree and rock, or you are simply boot-skiing. The terrain is unique, steep and very exposed. Some reviews I read stated you may need to get on your knees and hands, but with proper technique, poles and careful footing, you could save yourself from that and/or a fall.

The trailhead begins at Beaver Mines Lake campground and first takes you through a dense, leafy forest. Once you break through the trees, you will hit the bench, and from there, you can opt left for an alternate scramble route. If you prefer a less suicidal route, opt right and choose left to pee only. The trail is surprisingly well worn and relatively easy to follow. I would keep along the creek until moving into rocks and scree.

Once you pass the creek bed, it’s ALL exposed. Even the trees have dried out from the exposure, but they did make for pretty pictures. There is no other water source after that, so I would suggest bringing double what you would typically consume on a hot day. I drank 3L, which is what my hydra pack holds, plus a celebratory drink, obviously. You can bring electrolytes for some extra hydration. I choose bad/fun stuff.

We did not run into many people on the trail and no animals other than a giant freaking frog in the forested area, which gave me a mild heart attack. What we did run into was wild raspberry bushes, though, and you know what that means!? Berries mean bears! Bears love berries. But I don’t love bears.

You will be treated to some really spectacular views of where the Rockies meet the Prairies at the summit. The drop-offs are severe so play safe!

Table Mountain in the Spring – Windy and Up!

Spring is a magical time to explore the natural beauty of Table Mountain in Castle Mountain Provincial Park. As the snow melts and the winds pick up, the park comes alive with the sights and sounds of the season. Hiking up Table Mountain in the spring offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to experience the vibrant flora and fauna that call this area home.

The spring months also bring milder temperatures, making it an ideal time to tackle the mountain. The cool, crisp air and clear skies create perfect hiking conditions, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural splendor of Table Mountain.

Hiking The Same Trail Twice

Hiking the same trail twice can provide a different experience each time. The change in seasons, weather, and even personal mindset can offer new perspectives and make the second hike just as rewarding as the first.

  1. Reflect on the changes in the trail: Hiking the same trail twice allows you to observe how the landscape and surroundings change over time. You can document any differences in vegetation, wildlife, or seasonal variations to showcase the dynamic nature of the trail.
  2. Document personal growth and progress: Compare your experience on the trail the first time to your second hike. Reflect on how your fitness level, mindset, and hiking skills have evolved. Share any challenges you overcame and the sense of accomplishment from conquering the trail again.
  3. Capture different perspectives: Each hike offers unique lighting conditions, weather patterns, and seasonal variations. Use photography or videography to capture the trail from different angles and during various times of the year. Showcasing the trail’s diversity can be visually captivating for your audience.
  4. Delve into the emotional and mental aspects: Explore the nostalgia, memories, and sense of familiarity that comes with retracing your steps.
  5. Provide practical tips for repeat hikers: Offer advice on how to make the most of hiking the same trail multiple times.

Where is Table Mountain

Table Mountain is located in Castle Provincial Park in southern Alberta, a 25-minute drive west of Pincher Creek or a 1-hour drive from Waterton. The trailhead is located down the road from the Beaver Mines Lake Campground.

What to Pack for Table Mountain:

  • Day Pack
  • Wind Jacket/Rain Jacket
  • Hiking Boots
  • Hiking Socks
  • Poles
  • Food/Electrolytes/Water (double what you would drink normally)
  • A Dress (just kidding)
  • Bug Spray/Bear Spray
  • Sunscreen/Sunnies/Hat
  • First Aid
  • Navigation

Hiking Table Mountain

  • Distance: 11.3 km out and back
  • Difficulty: hard
  • Elevation Gain: 838m
  • Moving Time: 3:44:40 hours plus an extra time for lunch/brunch/party/picnic

Related

Southern Alberta offers a wide range of hiking opportunities, from the rolling foothills to the majestic Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging summit, there’s a trail for every hiker in this region. Make sure to check out Waterton Lakes National Park and Crypt Lake Trail – Waterton

Happy Trails!