The Prairie View Lookout to Yates Mountain hike is an incredible year round hike located in Kananaskis. This is one of the most rewarding hikes for the amount of effort involved. Although there is a fair amount of elevation to gain, it is done on a wide, easy to navigate trail and when you get to the opening, the view of Barrier Lake and Baldy Mountain behind, is stunning!
The last time we hiked the trail was in mid April on a perfect sunny spring day. We’ve both hiked this trail numerous times before, including via the Jewell Pass when we stayed at the backcountry campground, Jewell Bay. This last time though we hiked out and back to Yates Mountain via the Prairie View Lookout trail. There was still a fair amount of snow up high and we were not sure what we would encounter on the less trafficked Jewell Pass Side. However for those wanting more of an adventure, turning this into a loop hike leads to a perfect day in Kananaskis.
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Trail Stats For The Yates Mountain Hike
Distance: 6.6km one way to Prairie View Lookout (+1km to Yates Mountain)
Elevation: 421m gain to Prairie View Lookout (+180m gain to Yates Mountain)
Time: 3 – 4 hours return
When To Hike The Yates Mountain Hike
One of the things which makes the Yates Mountain hike so popular is that it is doable year round. There are excellent views from the first lookout, as well as the Prairie View lookout, so either of these points would be worthy turnaround points if the trail got too snow covered.
When we completed the trail in Mid April, there wasn’t a lot of snow on the lower elevations, however heading up from Prairie View Lookout to Yates Mountain, there was a lot more snow. If you headed up after a fresh snowfall it may be hard to find the trail.
The Yates Mountain hike Via Prairie View Lookout Trail Description
The Yates Mountain hike starts at Barrier Lake, following the service road around the dam and edge of Barrier Lake. It can be very windy along this initial stretch of the trail but don’t let it put you off, the trail soon heads right into the forest where the wind drops significantly.
As we entered the trees, the tail started to gain elevation. There are a number of trails spurring off in different directions but they are clearly signed as you cross the power line cut. Following the signs for Prairie View Lookout will keep you on the right track.
From here the trail switches back through the forest, there are no real views to speak of so it can be a little boring but the forest has its own fun things to look at to keep you entertained. When we hiked the trail in March there were a lot of muddy patches, boots were really helpful.
After a while, the trail becomes quite steep for a short period. When we hiked there was still a lot of snow here, which, due to traffic, was very slippery. There were a lot of people really struggling both going up and coming down this section. Check trail conditions before you head out and pack spikes in the winter and shoulder seasons. Thai made for a much easier time.
Eventually the trail levels out and you end up popping out of the trees at a beautiful open spot looking out over Barrier Lake and Mount Baldy. For many people, this is the perfect reward and therefore their turnaround spot.
To continue on to Prairie View Lookout and Yates Mountain, continue on the trail past the open spot. The trail gets even steeper after this, the views are gorgeous though and provide a welcome distraction from the climb. When we completed the Yates mountain hike, part of this steep section was so muddy and slick we fell over, but managed to stop ourselves with our hands which saved us from being covered in mud.
The Prairie View lookout trail winds around a rock band and continues to climb. There was a lot of ice here and it required spikes as well as the use of hands in early spring before it pops out onto the rocky outcrop of Prairie View Lookout. This is a lovely spot for lunch although you’ll rarely have this place to yourself.
For those looking to complete the Yates Mountain hike, pass the rocky outcrop of Prairie View Lookout, the trail here is very faint but eventually becomes obvious again, look for a sign warning that the fire lookout is manned and not to enter their space. Then you know you’ve found the correct trail.
There was a lot of snow on this final section of the Yates Mountain hike when we did it, spikes were a must as it has some steep patches. The trail winds up through the trees before reaching the edge where it traverses along with beautiful views looking out towards the Bow Valley.
At the summit of Yates Mountain, there are a few picnic benches to stop at and enjoy the views. Please don’t cross the barriers and ignore the closed signs by entering the Fire Lookout area. It is clear where you are and are not allowed to go.
We spent some time basking in the warm spring sunshine and it was much quieter up at the summit of Yates Mountain compared to further down the trail. We shared the space with only one other hiking group.
Eventually though, we had to turn around and head back down. As I mentioned, we chose to head back down the way we came since we didn’t know what conditions would be like if we completed the Prairie View loop and it was getting later in the day.
The Trailhead For The Yates Mountain Hike
Parking for the Yates Mountain hike is at the first Barrier Lake parking lot, located just over 9 kilometres down Highway 40 after turning off Highway 1. It’s just over a one hour drive from Calgary and a 30 minute drive from Canmore.
The parking lot isn’t signed for the trail but for the Barrier Dam and is on the right hand side just after the Kananaskis Visitor Centre.
Do You Need A Pass
To hike the Prairie View Lookout trail to Yates Mountain, you’ll need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass, you can buy one daily or annually. Online is the easiest way to purchase your pass ahead of time, however there is also the Barrier Lake Visitor Centre a two minute drive from the trailhead and you can purchase a pass in person there.
What We Took To Hike The Prairie View Lookout Trail
Hiking Boots – A good pair of waterproof hiking boots were a must when we hiked the trail in mid April, between the snow and the mud, we would have been very wet by the end of the day.
Day Pack – It was beyond cold and windy when we set out, however the sun was shining through the trees and it got warm fast so we had to take layers off, a backpack was perfect to put them in.
Ice Cleats – The top section of the trail just before the first lookout and the trail between Prairie View Lookout and Yates Mountain was very slick, there were lots of people without ice cleats who were really struggling.
Bear Spray – Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. The Prairie View Lookout trail is in bear country.
Where To Stay Nearby
Kananaskis Lodge – Located in the heart of Kananaskis, this beautiful modernised lodge is a perfect base for adventures.
Sundance Lodges – If glamping is more your style, the Sundance Lodges offer rustic trappers tents to stay in with all the creature comforts you might need.
