Scrambles in David Thompson Country

David Thompson Country Scrambles

For those adventurers who love traversing rugged terrain, David Thompson Country scrambles are an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. David Thompson is a great, under the radar destination in Alberta, especially when it comes to scrambling. Here, you’ll find quiet trails, peaceful aspen parkland and epic climbs at the foot of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. Follow Highway 11, stopping off at hidden gem destinations to try your hand (literally) at conquering some of the best rock climbing mountains in Alberta.

David Thompson Country scrambles provide views of some of the many incredible lakes in the region, making for a scenic experience no matter the trail. Some of the most popular include sightings of Abraham Lake, Sylvan Lake and Crimson Lake. Another popular local attraction that can be often be spotted on a scramble climb? Waterfalls, considering David Thompson Country is known as the “Land of the Falls.”

The area offers exceptional scrambles, regardless of if you’re a first-time climber or an experienced know-it-all. For the more advanced, Windy Point Ridge, The Buckle and Talus Peak all combine for a stunning, yet challenging scramble—providing views overlooking the entire Canadian Rockies! While trails like Ram Mountain are a slightly easier climb, located in remote mountains, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views and a tranquil climb all by yourself.

Pack your bag and set out for Highway 11 to explore the many David Thompson Country scrambles that make for an epic adventure in this off the beaten path destination. Need some help planning your scramble? Find our route guides below outlining all the information you need to conquer a David Thompson Country scramble.

The 5 Most Incredible Scrambles in David Thompson

Offering plenty of remote trail options, scrambling in David Thompson is a lesser-known activity, which means anyone who sets out on these trails will be rewarded with peaceful settings in stunning nature and often unobstructed panoramic views of the great Rocky Mountains—all to be enjoyed by your lonesome (or with a friend or two!).

Considering these scrambles are a bit more remote, we recommend coming prepared with a cellphone, GPS tracker and a first-aid kit, as it can often be long stretches of time outside civilization. Our David Thompson Scramble Route Guides below are mostly for the more advance climbers, but don’t let that deter you, as we do cover a few more beginner-friendly options.

Set your sights on a fun, but challenging day-hike at Mount Earnest Ross, where you’ll find yourself on an ever-changing path, ranging from scree to vertical rock boulders. One section in particular will get you sweating, but the views from the top overlooking Kootenay Plans and Abraham Lake make it all worth it. For an easier scramble, Coliseum Mountain is quite popular all year round, with fun switchbacks and ridge scrambles on the way to the top overlooking Nordegg Village and the Rocky Mountains.

• Windy Point Ridge, The Buckle, and Talus Peak: Scramble to Talus Peak near David Thompson Highway through Windy Point Ridge and the Buckle to see the best views of Abraham Lake in the entire Canadian Rockies!
• Mount Ernest Ross: Mount Ernest Ross scramble near David Thompson is a great day-hike in Alberta. This scramble is challenging and will take you to the top of Mount Ernest Ross.
• Two O-Clock Ridge: Two O-Clock Ridge Scramble near David Thompson Hwy is in Alberta. This trail leads along the ridge of Two O-Clock with beautiful views of surrounding areas.
• Coral Ridge: Set out on the Coral Ridge Scramble for an under-the-radar adventure. This trail leads to a secluded peak overlooking Mt Stelfox.
• Eagle Ridge and Mountain Scramble: Eagle Ridge and Mountain Scramble is a beautiful hike near Nordegg, Alberta. The trail leads to the top of the Eagle Mountain and Ridge with beautiful lookouts.

When Is The Best Time To Scramble in David Thompson

While the spring and fall season are particularly enjoyable to complete a David Thompson scramble, you can conquer most of the trails all-year-round. Depending on the challenge level, most of the scrambles can be completed even in the winter, but ensure you come dressed accordingly in layers and check the weather prior to heading out.

The spring season offers stunning wildflower fields in full bloom that makes for a picturesque scramble, while the fall provides ample beautiful leaf peeping opportunities.

How To Plan A Trip To David Thompson

Thinking of booking your next vacation in David Thompson, but don’t know where to start? No sweat! We’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to planning a trip to David Thompson. We share all our insider knowledge on where to stay, eat and play. And of course, the local’s guide to the best scrambles in the David Thompson area. All you have to do… is pack your bag.

Frequently-Asked-Questions About David Thompson

What is the best scramble for an experienced hiker in David Thompson?

There are plenty of exceptional trails to try your hand at scrambling, but our favourite is the Windy Point Ridge, The Buckle and Talus Peak climb, which combines multiple peaks for stunning lookout points and natural beauty for a challenging scramble.

What supplies do you need to bring for a scramble?

Be prepared with all-conditions waterproof hiking boots—these will make for a much easier scramble. When travel over snow is expected, bring gaiters. Ankle gaiters keep small rocks out of boots as well. You may also want gloves to help you scramble over tough terrain, but it’s up to your discretion.

Download the 10Adventures App

If you want to explore the natural beauty of David Thompson Country without a guide, the 10Adventures trail app is the best resource to have. Download the 10Adventures app if you want to safely and easily navigate the trails offline while out on your next adventure.