Popular hiking area west of Canmore, Alta. closed because of rockslide danger

Alberta Parks has closed a significant area around the popular Grassi Lakes hiking trails, located west of Canmore, Alberta, citing dangerous conditions following a recent rockslide. The closure, which took effect Wednesday, encompasses portions of Spray Lakes Road (Highway 742) and the Smith-Dorrien Trail, including the Grassi Lakes day-use area and its associated trails.

Provincial officials posted online warnings indicating that the rockslide has created hazardous conditions for road users. They noted that unsupported rock remains above the road, posing a risk of further slides. An assessment of the situation is currently underway, but officials have not yet provided a timeline for when repairs might be completed or the area could be reopened.

Alberta Parks has published a map detailing the extensive area affected by the closure and urges the public to respect the restrictions and stay clear. While access to Grassi Lakes is restricted, other areas within Peter Lougheed and Spray Valley Provincial Parks, such as the Spray Lakes West Campground and various trailheads like Ha Ling Peak, remain accessible via Highway 40 South and the open sections of Spray Lakes Road/Highway 742/Smith-Dorrien Trail northbound. Visitors heading to these accessible areas are advised to anticipate potentially longer travel times.