Categories: Travel

Natural rock spires formed by erosion keep watch over this Alberta mountain town

Drumheller isn’t the only place in Alberta with some hoodoos to brag about.

In fact, there’s a beloved trail near the town of Canmore where you can spot a few hoodoos of your own.

This hidden gem trail is well-used by locals. It’s an easy, accessible hike with interesting views to boot.

To get there, head west from Calgary, turn off Highway 1 onto Palliser Trail, then continue towards the Canmore cemetery.

Less than 500 metres from the parking lot, you can continue on foot past the cemetery for a steeper path, or veer to the right and take the trail that heads directly to the hoodoos.

What are hoodoos?

Hoodoos are naturally forming sandstone pillars, the result of erosion.

They take millions of years to emerge, usually standing between 5 and 7 metres tall.

Hoodoos are a common, albeit fascinating feature of the geography surrounding Drumheller, but these ones in the mountains of Canmore are just as unique.

They are the result of Earth’s natural processes and have stood tall for millions of years against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies.

A popular hiking destination

The Canmore hoodoos are a little off the beaten path, so the spot is popular amongst locals.

Photographers like the dramatic, scenic backdrop they create, and hikers enjoy the trip uphill to see them.

It’s a form of natural pottery that has stood the test of time.

These hoodoos have kept watch over the surrounding Three Sisters and Goatview Peak mountains for longer than we’ve all been alive.

You’ll definitely want to see this natural formation in action!

Canmore Hoodoos

Where: Benchlands Trl., Canmore, Alta.
How to get there: Head west on Highway 1 for an hour and 15 minutes, towards Canmore.

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