Southesk Trail

About this trail

Southesk Trail is a 24.9 km out and back trail near Blackstone Gap in Blackstone/Wapiabi Public Land Use Zone. It runs 12.5 km each way. The route gains 355 m in total and tops out at 1,855 m. Hike Alberta rates it hard. Allow about 7 hours 15 minutes of moving time. It meets Blackstone Gap Trail at 2.1 km, and passes two other mapped junctions. Two side branches with the same name split off the route, at 10.3 km and 10.6 km. The map also shows two separate sections with the same name that are not part of this route. The distance and climb above follow this route only, not its branches. Along the way you pass a stream crossing. Also used for backpacking.

Highest point 1,855 m, lowest 1,647 m, 355 m of climbing in total. Steepest sustained grade about 14% over 100 m.

Along the way

1. 7.6 kmStream crossing
2. 7.9 kmStream crossing
3. 8.6 kmStream crossing

Good for

• Hiking, Backpacking
• Dog friendly (on leash)

Rankings

• 6in Best hikes in Blackstone/Wapiabi Public Land Use Zone

Trailhead

The trail starts at 52.5962° N, 116.6028° W.

Driving directions

Before you go

Carry an offline map and plan for no service in backcountry areas. Trails close for wildlife, fire, weather and construction. Check the official sources:

• Alberta Parks advisories and closures
• Avalanche Canada
• Alberta wildfire status

Nearby trails

• Blackstone Gap TrailHard · 23.2 km · 247 m gain · 2.6 km away
• Opabin Creek TrailEasy · 3.2 km · 79 m gain · 7.9 km away
• Opabin Creek TrailHard · 20.5 km · 676 m gain · 9.2 km away
• Mons Chungo TrailHard · 30.9 km · 819 m gain · 10.2 km away
• Southesk TrailModerate · 9.5 km · 261 m gain · 14.4 km away
• Wapiabi Cave TrailHard · 7.2 km · 650 m gain · 16.5 km away