Distance: 21.2km (out and back)

Elevation Gain: 1295m

Rating: Moderate to difficult (difficulty due to distance not technicality)

Distance from Calgary: 73km/1 hour

Forgetmenot Ridge is one of the less travelled routes in the Bragg Creek area. I have done this hike with people of varying experience and fitness levels. However, depending on the time of year, the river crossing and trail conditions on steep incline can significantly change the difficulty of this hike. Like all hikes, I always recommend taking the trail conditions in to consideration before setting out. A quick google is never a bad idea!

From the parking lot, you will have to cross the Little Elbow River. The first option to do this is to travel southwest along the river path (towards the Little Elbow Campground), and cross the Harold Champan Bridge. From here, you backtrack on the other side of the Little Elbow river following the Big Elbow Trail. This route eliminates the pain and danger of one river crossing, so I highly recommend going this way. However, the downside is you’re adding distance (about 1.4km) to your hike. The second option is to brave the river crossing right from the parking lot, and head right to the trail across the river. I would only recommend doing this when the water is low, and if you have experience in doing so. 9/10 times I would take the bridge. The above picture is an example of when the water level is low.

Whichever way you decide to go, you will not be able to avoid crossing the Elbow River. This isn’t a treacherous river crossing, but the frigid glacier water can be a great test of strength. Depending on the time of the year, you might barely get your feet wet, or the water may go up to your knees. Spring/early summer is usually when the water is the highest due to snow melt. The above picture is an example of higher water level, and the below picture is an example of lower water levels. You should see orange tape to indicate where the trail continues on the other side of the river.

Once the river crossings are done, you will follow the Wildhorse Trail past where the Little Elbow and Elbow River join. This is a wide horse trail, so if you’re on anything narrow, you may be on the wrong path. The Wildhorse Trail is quite close to the river. After less than 1km, you will hit a Y in the path. Head right/uphill to follow the trail to the ridge.

Prepare for a major leg burn from here, as you have 1.4km with 419m of elevation to get to the lower ridge of the mountain. The trail is rocky and steep, but don’t give up! Since the trail gets to the ridge so quickly, you will be rewarded with views that make the incline worth it. This is where people with less hiking experience or fitness may struggle, but a slow pace and taking breaks can make a massive difference. The slope grade gets much less intense after the lower ridge.

From the lower ridge, you continue your upward trend for another 1.2km and 178m of elevation, until you hit the upper ridge. You can head left (north) to head towards the north summit, or right (south) to go towards the true summit. If you’re hoping for a shorter day, and the hike to the ridge was enough exercise for you, the south summit is a great place to turn around. Don’t worry, you will still be rewarded with fantastic views.

The true summit of Forgetmenot Mountain is another 5.6km (275m elevation) ridge walk from the south summit.

Although the true summit is a significantly longer distance, I recommend at least walking some of the ridge. It’s a beautiful grassy walk, with amazing 360 degree views! The wildflowers can also be lovely if you go at the right time of year (June-August). There isn’t always an obvious pathway, but if you stay on the highest point of the ridge, you won’t get lost! The ridge is always wide, so no experience with exposure is needed for this one.

The farther you go, the less likely you are to run into any other hikers! I recommend this hike to anyone who doesn’t want to travel too far from the city, but still wants to beat the crowds.