Allstones Ridge is a quick, fun hike, suitable as a day trip from Edmonton. The parking lot south of the highway was improved in 2022 and has an outhouse.
An obvious trail is picked up across the highway, on the north side of Allstones Creek. The elevation gain is gradual for the majority of the route.After almost an hour in the trees, the surroundings started to open around us. In the background, Kista Peak (left) stands above Abraham Lake.As we neared the top, we first crossed below this small avalanche slope and then gained the high point from the southwest. The snow on this slope was fairly shallow on this day, but the slope may be a concern with deeper snow.Just before reaching the lake, we made a right turn toward the highpoint of the ridge. Two groups ahead of us had been turned back by the snow depth, but we found it was only deep for about 50 m, where it had accumulated in a flat stand of trees. Once above the trees, travel was easy again. Behind us are The Buckle (left) and Talus Peak (center).The final slope to the top of Allstones Ridge was fairly gentle and the thin, windswept snow caused us no issues.Looking back at Dan. Allstones Lake is to the right and the slopes above it are a toe of Allstones Peak.Nearly at the top, little more than a stroll away.Dan at the top of Allstones Ridge, with Abraham Lake in the background.Summit panorama.We returned the way we came, passing many groups along the way on this popular trail.
We made it back to the highway in 4 hrs, leaving plenty of time to drive back to Edmonton. If not for the social distancing measures of this era, we would have also enjoyed a leisurely dinner in Rocky Mountain House. But, in March 2021 we contended ourselves with ramen on our camp stove and then drove straight home.
Peak Bliss 
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