Ha Ling Peak is a peak at the northwestern end of Mount Lawrence Grassi just south of Canmore, Alberta, Canada. It was previously named Chinaman’s Peak but the name was changed to be less offensive. It is a rewarding hike with beautiful vistas of the surrounding valley, and the town of Canmore below.
The majority of the trail leads through treed switchbacks up the mountain with a few openings to catch your breath while enjoying the view. After leaving the treed area turn left to the last push on loose rocks and scree to the summit. You can also turn right across the saddle to enjoy the view from Miner’s Peak and/or Three Humps. Exercise caution on the scree and take your time, many people slip – including yours truly but luckily my bum caught me.
Once you out of the tree line there could be lots of exposure to wind and I would recommend to bring a windbreaker or a thermal layer. If you are planning to spend some time at the peak, then bring sunscreen during the summer months.
Make sure to check for snow conditions if hiking around May or late October. As the hike is very steep, with snow it can be very slippery and will require a good pair of boots and poles – especially for the way down.
It is not a complicated hike but with an elevation of 740M in just 3km you will definitely feel the burn, and requires solid footing at spots. I would rank Ha Ling Peak as an advanced difficulty hike.
Ha Ling Peak is a very busy trail especially in peak summer months and would be pretty safe for solo hikers. But don’t forget your camera, the views are spectacular and you may even run into some Bighorn Sheep.
Distance: 6KM round trip
Elevation Gain: 741M
Duration: 4 hours
Season: May – October.
Dog Friendly: OK for the seasoned hiking fury partners. Most of the trail is dirt so it will be OK for their paws until the final push to the summit. Not recommended for short snouted breeds or those with joint issues.
Directions: From Canmore or Exit 93 off Highway 1, follow the signs to the Nordic Centre on Spray Lakes Road, go past the Nordic Centre into Kananaskis Country for 5 km. Park at the Goat Creek Day Use Area. Cross the road, and walk up the gravel road, cross a bridge over a channel. The trailhead is marked by a large rock with a plaque.