Guide To Hiking Ha Ling Peak

Where is Ha Ling Peak Trail?

Ha Ling Peak Trail is in the heart of Canmore Alberta. The mountain peak overlooks the town with Canmore Nordic Center, Quarry Lake, and Grassi Lakes at its base. Trailhead is found at Goat Creek Day use on the Spray Lake road that winds up to more spectacular hikes and lakes. Find trail info here

How did Ha Ling Peak get its name?

Ha Ling Peak (formally is known as Chinamen’s Peak). The name was changed back in 1997 as the name was found offensive in nature although the story of how the name was originated is something to be proud of.

Fellow workers at CP rails waged a $50 bet that the cook at the time couldn’t hike to the summit of this mountain.

To their surprise, he made it to the summit in 10 hrs where he placed a flag at its peak. What a hike it must have been back in the day, and which path he took back then. The townsfolk decided to name the mountain Chinamens Peak as he was of Chinese origin.

Hiking Ha Ling Peak Today

Ha Ling Peak has always been a very challenging hike with a distance of 7.9 km in total to the summit with an 804m elevation. To the saddle which is where we hiked is 3.5 km. Averaging 6 hours depending on stops along the way, Which for me there were many like every 50 ft. lol

Ha Ling Peak as I mentioned early has been quite a difficult hike claiming lives and injuring hikers in the past while still to this day is rated difficult even after extensive renovations in 2018. Reopened in 2019.

Today since renovations the hike is much safer with guard rails, stairs, and improved pathways although the terrain still remains challenging and often a scramble on and off throughout the hike. Caution should be taken before attempting this mountain.

Having the proper gear is crucial for your own safety. Read: 20 Back Country Essentials for Day Hikes in the Mountains

Hiking beyond the saddle?

The saddle is a great place to sit and have lunch while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views. Once there, the choice to scramble the rock peak to the left or take Miner’s Peak to the right. This will depend on how much energy and time you have left. Noteworthy, starting this hike early and take your time is recommended.

All in all hiking Ha Ling peak was quite an accomplishment, with tears of joy arriving at the saddle There were many times that quitting entered my mind but anyone that hikes know how addicting it is and making it to the final destination is so rewarding.

Happy Hiking!!