Yates Mountain

12.7 km
716 m elevation
★★★★★ rating
Moderate Difficulty
Pet Friendly

Yates Mountain is a fairly easy summit in comparison to other hikes in the area. Once you follow the trail over Barrier Lake Dam, you begin a long but gradual ascent up towards Yates Mountain. Near the summit there is a rocky area for great views and pictures of Barrier Lake and the surrounding mountain range. Keep heading up the now narrow trail passed the rocky section and you will arrive at a PRIVATE fire lookout used by the Alberta Government. Do not go into the residence, but there is a sign marking the trail that will head around the fire lookout to a viewpoint of the backside of the mountain. From there you will have views of Exshaw, Lac Des Arcs, Mount Yamnuska and more.

This is a fairly long trail so make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. There are some picnic tables at the summit as well if you would like to sit down and eat a proper meal.

(Optional) Go cool off or bring your pet to have a swim in Barrier Lake after the hike.