Notes: Not to be confused with Wasootch Ridge. Kananaskis Conservation Pass Required.
Trip Report
In terms of reward for effort, it’s hard to top Wasootch. This short, little trip packs big mountain views. Wasootch is even quick enough to do as a day trip from Edmonton, which is exactly what we needed to cure our cabin-fever in March 2021.
Wasootch Peak is an unofficial name for a highpoint north of Kananaskis Peak. The ridge to the east of these peaks is named Wasootch Ridge, the high point of which is sometimes also called Wasootch Peak. A bit of common-sense is needed to sift through information when trip planning as both are popular outings.
The well-trodden trail up the creek bed was easy to pick up from the highway. Our objective stands at center.The trail soon rises above the drainage, following its left shoulder. Impressive Mount Kidd commands the view behind us (left). This section looked technical as we approached it. But, once closer, an easy ramp reading right came into view. From the slide marks down this ramp, it seems that there are still people trying to winter-hike without traction aids.An easy trail winds around rock features and the scrambling is never beyond easy.Looking back as Dan rounds the corner, with Mount Kananaskis in the background.From here we will follow the ridge at the right, and then turn left to make the final push to the summit.Looking back at Mount Kidd.The final push to the summit is easy scrambling on fairly good scree. In deeper snow, this slope would be a concern, but we saw no snow above us to present any hazard.This popular peak has well-worn trails through the scree making for easy travel.Looking back as Dan reaches the summit ridge. The summit is relatively narrow for an easy scramble, but the footing feels very solid and I didn’t find it exposed.Looking northeast, the flat prairies of Seebe can just be seen at the far left. Wasootch Ridge (right) is the next ridgeline back and doesn’t connect with this peak.Spectacular summit views of Kananaskis Peak, to the south.Summit panorama.We returned the way we came. Depending on wind loading, there could be light cornicing to avoid along the ridge.
We returned to the highway in 3 hrs 45 min, with plenty of daylight left to start the drive back to the Edmonton area. However, instead of feeling satiated to have gotten out, I felt driven to plan more for the year!
If one of my friends were looking to try out scrambling, I would definitely include this one as a suggestion. It’s a short day that’s unlikely to leave someone hating scrambling forever. The last few meters along the summit ridge might feel a bit intimidating, but the views are still just as good in front if they chose to turn-back before the peak.
Peak Bliss 