East End of Rundle (EEOR)

Distance: 4.8km (Out and back)

Elevation Gain: 832m

Rating: difficult

Remoteness: This is a popular hike, you will definitely see other people on the trail.

EEOR is a great hiking choice if you’re short on time, and needing a quicker hike.  This hike is 4.8km with 832m of elevation gain.  This hike starts off as a steep incline, and never stops.  It’s what we call a leg-burner.  Time to the top is dependent on your fitness level, and the path conditions.  We love this hike for a quick and dirty fitness session. 

This is a heavily trafficked hike, which has created many different routes to get to the same destination.  Some routes are harder and more exposed than others.  Blue marks are visible to guide you on the best path, but they aren’t always easy to see.  We have done this hike many times from May to November. Crampons and poles are a definite must during early and late hiking season due to icy and snowy conditions.  Falling rocks are also not uncommon due to an abundance of fellow hikers and mountain goats.  A helmet is never a bad idea in these conditions. 

This is not a hike for anyone who isn’t a fan of heights or exposure.  Although this hike isn’t long and super technical, the steeper sections are not for the faint of heart, especially on some of the possible routes to the top.  If a section seems too exposed, there is likely an easier way up nearby.  Patience is key on this hike.  If you have AllTrails, we definitely recommend using their map to find the best route. 

Near the top of the hike, the incline opens to a series short grass meadows.  If the beginning of this hike felt exposed to you, we recommend turning around here.  This is a great spot to take in the view of Ha Ling, Spray Valley, and the nearby town of Canmore. 

The final push to the summit is the most technical part of the hike. We don’t recommend doing this part if there is snow. Although short, this section requires a bit of “climbing”. There are lots of places to hold on to for anyone willing to try it. The top provides a view of Canmore, and is a great place for a peak nap if the weather allows it.

Due to this hike being so quick, we love it for sunrise and sunset hiking. Just bring headlamps to help route find on the way up or down!