Porcupine Ridge
Distance: 10.8km (Out and back)
Elevation Gain: 905 m
Rating: moderate to difficult
Remoteness: This is a popular hike, you will definitely see other people
Porcupine Ridge is a favorite early season hike for us, although it can be done at any time. It starts out walking along porcupine creek, where you can often spot climbers climbing the surrounding slabs. A few river crossings are required, so you can test your balance on the log “bridges”. The creek then splits into a “Y”, which is where the trail begins. It can be an easy trail to miss! From here, you begin the relentless uphill to the ridge. This hike is approximately 10.8km with 905m of elevation gain.
The uphill is a great way to get into hiking shape. The hike tricks you with many views of a possible summit. When you reach the top of what looks like the first summit, you get a short and sweet ridge walk. This can feel slightly exposed to anyone not used to heights, but the path is wide enough with enough holds that it can be done by people of all hiking levels.
After the short ridge walk, you venture into another short patch of trees which eventually ends up at the final summit of this hike. The views from this spot are lovely, and the rock formations are really unique. If the wind allows it, the top is a great spot to sit and eat lunch and enjoy a beer before heading back down.
On a hot day, we love taking a polar dip in the creek at the end of the hike to cool down, and relax our tired muscles!