Description

Distance: 18.42km
Elevation Gain: 1,421m
Trail Character: Scrambling Sections
Trail Type: Loop
Parking: Fernie Visitor Centre

The Proctor Loop offers an excellent day out in a stunning part of the Rocky Mountains. While the trail isn’t overly long compared to many other routes listed in the guide, the elevation gain and loss to the top of Mount Proctor and back is significant. The trail is steep both on the way up and down, which can really beat up your legs if you’re running fast.

Navigating the route is fairly straightforward. Behind the visitor center, where the loop starts, is a mountain biking area with many crisscrossing trails. Fortunately, there is ample signage to point you in the direction of the Mount Proctor trail.

The route is best done counterclockwise so you can ascend the steep rocky sections and enjoy the nicer single track on the way down. It should be noted that there is a brief, easy scrambling section where most people will feel more comfortable using their hands to ascend on the ridge a short distance from the summit of the mountain.