Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
940 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.2 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Tuff Puff Ridge Hike

Tuff Puff Ridge Hike
Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

Tuff Puff Ridge is a beautiful trail near David Thompson Highway that attracts a lot of hikers, not only because of its ear-catching name, but also because of the blooming wildflowers surrounding it. The trail is of great quality and the summit has beautiful views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies. You will be able to observe Whirlpool Ridge, Two O-Clock Ridge and North Saskatchewan River from the best angles!

Route Description for Tuff Puff Ridge Hike

Start the Tuff Puff Ridge hike after dropping off your car near the gravel pullout from the Highway and continue walking along the gravel path. After a few hundred meters there will be a path going to the ridge in front of you – take it.

There will be several small forks in the beginning, continue going up on the most obvious path. Later, you will reach a fork with two paths: left path continuing on quite even terrain and right one ascending through a steep slope. Take whichever one you prefer, as these paths will later merge into one and they both are fine for ascending and descending. The right path is slightly shorter, but the difference is not big.

After the steeper ascent, the elevation will soften up a bit and the trail will become very clear. You will find yourself in the meadows full of wildflowers and forested paths.

Soon you will reach a less obvious fork. You will be able to see words spelled out on the ground with rocks ‘King’ and ‘Tuff’. The left trail will lead to the Kinglet Lake and the right one – to our destination, Tuff Puff Ridge. Take the right path.

As you approach the summit, the trail will steepen again. Shortly, you will reach the summit. Enjoy the expansive views of surrounding ridges of Canadian Rockies: Whirlpool Ridge, Two O-Clock Ridge and North Saskatchewan River.

Return the same way you came.

Insider Hints for Tuff Puff Ridge Hike

  • On the Tuff Puff Ridge hike, lots of hikers prefer merging this trail with Kinglet Lake Trail and making it a loop – you can try it too!
  • During summer, this trail might get quite hot – get plenty of water
  • Try visiting during early summer for the sea of blooming wildflowers

Getting to the Tuff Puff Ridge Hike Trailhead

Park your car next to David Thompson Highway Kinglet Lake and Tuff Puff Trailhead, 14.9mi east of Highway 93.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    June-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Near Kinglet Lake

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Tuff Puff Ridge Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter