I usually head south to Canmore or Bragg Creek when I need to get my mountain fix. Depending on where I go, it’s usually a two to two hour and a half drive. This weekend, however, I headed to Nordegg. I’ve heard from others there’s great spots in the area west of Rocky Mountain House for hiking/running but I never gave it much thought. Sunday made sense because it was the long weekend and I didn’t want to be stuck in traffic for hours.
The Hamlet of Nordegg in Clearwater County is 172 kms west of Red Deer. To get there from Red Deer, you simply head west on Hwy 11 past Sylvan Lake and Rocky Mountain. It’s a refreshing drive with little traffic, a nice change from Hwy 2.
After some research I settled on Coliseum Mountain. History tells it as the first mountain fire lookout in Alberta. In 1927, the lookout was made of lumber hauled by packhorses to the peak. (Source: Alberta Government). The road to the trailhead is across the street from the entrance into Nordegg, on Shunda Creek Road.
I ignored the “bear in area” signs that were posted near the campground. I forgot my bear spray and I didn’t want to break myself out. Thankfully there were no signs posted near the trail. The parking lot was filled with vehicles so I knew I wouldn’t be alone on the trail.
A father dropped off his three sons (in the distance) before driving off. I asked one of the kids if this was punishment. He said it was their idea. They were carrying huge backpacks and cloth grocery bags. It was a little overkill for a 14k hike but what do I know? I passed many people with huge backpacks along the way. I just had my running hydration pack.
The first bit of the trail is all forest with switchback after switchback. I could hear the boys’ laughter and chatter through the trees.
The higher I climbed the more people I came across. This couple from Edmonton were on the trail for the first time too. We had stopped and chatted at a rocky bit.
Eventually I cleared the forest bit and made my way to the ridge walk. It’s not as gross as it looks. I didn’t trip once. Yay for the small things!
The name Coliseum Mountain refers to the rocky amphitheatre on its southwest aspect, a natural feature reminiscent of the coliseums of ancient Rome. That’s pretty cool right?
It is also known as “mountain with a cap” referring to the summit knoll. I learned these tidbits after I did the climb. I love learning the history and sharing it with others. I’m bit of a nerd that way.
I chatted with a mountain biker at the top for a bit. It was his first time on Coliseum too. We chatted about the other peaks in the area. He said the mountain reminded him of Moose Mountain in Bragg Creek. I could see the similarities. Eventually the three kids made it to the top. I apologized for “lying” to them. I thought we were half way done when I passed them. Ooops.
Not surprising, it was slightly windy at the summit. I would have stayed longer but I was starting to get super hungry. I didn’t have any food with me and I had an hour’s drive to Rocky. I had to get movie. I ran down the mountain with little problem. This is such a runable mountain. It’s only 14.5K (return) but it is so worth the drive.
My interest is piqued so I may head back down Hwy 11 in the next couple of weeks.
Nordegg is a nice surprise. I used to camp out there as a kid. I was in Buck Lake – not too far from you there – just a bit more north. Looks like you got some nice miles in!! And its nice and close 🙂
Yes I had no idea. I want to go back this weekend but I really ought to get ready for my 2-week trip to B.C. Oh fun!