Six kilometres and 500 metre gain was not exactly a convincing reason to drive three hours on a Saturday. But I wanted to do something new and I landed on Gypsum Ridge.
By the time arrived, at least half a dozen vehicles were parked along the highway. Judging from all the comments on social media, I was prepared for a crowded trail.
Reviews suggest it is “hard hike” are subjective. Fitness, experience and background vary wildly. As trail runners, we experience trails differently. We’re looking for some vert mixed with runnable sections.
I always read multiple reviews before I tackle a new peak or ridge. I want as much information as possible before I try something new.
Getting to Gypsum Ridge
From Calgary drive along Highway 1 and take exit 118 to Highway 40 where you will drive until you reach the intersection to Hwy 746 (Spray Lakes Road). Drive another six kilometres and park on the left side of the highway. Like most of the hikes along the highway there is no designated parking.
Trail
I didn’t see any signs for the trailhead. I began the hike on the opposite side of the highway driving from Calgary, following a few groups to an opening in the trees where the snow-packed trail began.
The trail was straightforward and easy to follow. It was packed down with snow and icy patches. You run along nice packed snow then a dip down on a icy pack before switching backing a trail. Heavy foot traffic had created hard-snow encased start-and-stop trails up through the trees.
I was held up on a few sections because it wasn’t wide, and a few groups had stopped to catch their breath or to wait for others. That took some fancy footwork as it was very icy. Thankfully I had remembered to pack my Kahtoolas.
Once out of the trees (about a kilometre), I was awarded with a nice, wide trail. I ran along that until I reached another climb through the trees that would bring me to the ridge. This climb was much more gradual compared to the first section, and easier to move faster.
I reached the ridge with little fanfare. The ridge opened up views of the Spray Valley painted with dustings of snow. A woman and her dog turned the ridge as their own photo studio complete with props (and no regard for anyone else). I snapped a couple photos and headed down.
It was a quick descent as I put my spikes on over my Icebugs for the last kilometre. Because it took me less than two hours, I headed over to South Lawson. It was on my way back to Calgary. If you are planning on exploring Gypsum Ridge – couple it with another mountain so you it is worth the drive.
Gypsum Ridge: Distance: ~6 kilometres return Elevation gain: ~500 metres. Estimated time (trail runner) 1.25 – 2 hours. Best for: Short winter ridge run, paired with another peak nearby. Crowds: High. Expect groups and bottlenecks.