Upper Stoney Squaw

Banff, Alberta, Canada

Upper Stoney Squaw is considered a x-country trail. It’s not a downhill run, as there is no vehicle drop off at the summit or lift service here. One has to peddle up the tight, rooty, rocky, twisty and steep climb to reach the summit of Stoney. The view of the surrounding mountains and the valley below is spectacular. From the summit you’ll make your way back down a gnarly, tight, and steep singletrack that winds its way through the trees all the way to the start of Lower Stoney. Some say the reward (sweet descent) is worth the climb up – why don’t you be the judge?

You can combine Upper Stoney with Lower Stoney for a full loop. Alternatively, you can drive up to the start of Upper Stoney, do a lap and head back to the carpark; the choice is yours.

bikepirate rating:

Trail Stats

Distance: 4.5 km
Time: 45 min - 1.5 hrs
Elevation Gain: 275 m
Elevation Loss: 284 m
Min Elevation: 1,680 m
Max Elevation: 1,904 m
Technical Rating: Advanced
Physical Rating: Hard
Season: June - October
Permit Required: Park Pass

Trail Location

Trailhead: The trailhead for Upper Stoney Squaw is located at Mount Norquay carpark, on the right-hand side as you enter the parking lot. Take Hwy.y 1 to Banff and exit on to Mt. Norquay Rd. Drive or ride north up Mt. Norquay to the carpark.

GPS: N51 12.038 W115 35.712

Downloads

Map: click here
GPS Map (GPX): click here
Google Earth: click here
Rundle Mountain Cycling Club: click here
Trail Report: click here

Google Earth trail view only works if you have the program; download it here (free)

Buy your Banff trail guide:
Bow Valley Mountain Bike Trail Guide

 

 
  • http://twitter.com/AdamDotCom Adam Kahtava

    This is a great trail and I’m surprised it’s only rated as a three. Oh well, hopefully that keeps the traffic minimal. The climb is tough and aside from a couple new trees down it is clearable. Great for a late season ride when you have a good fitness base. Video of the descent: http://youtu.be/Oj-zq8Wzo68?hd=1

    • http://www.bikepirate.com Peter Oprsal

      Thanks for sharing your video Adam. It is a great ride, but I know many struggle with the challenging up. Good to see you had a great day out.

  • wintercannon

    I’m not sure this description sufficiently communicates the sheer difficulty of the climb up to the summit. Unrelentingly steep and incredibly rooty, anybody who can clear it all deserves a medal in my opinion. Trail’s in good condition though; unfortunately the mosquitoes think so as well.



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