Coliseum Mountain (8km each way) Moderate
Coliseum Mountain was our big hike on May long weekend this year. It starts right across the highway from the town of Nordegg in the Shunda subdivision. The trail involves numerous switchbacks through the forest before breaking through the trees to enjoy the views. But hang in there, because the views are great!
The trail starts off very easy, staying at a low incline through the forest. You will start to do some switchbacks and think to yourself that the hike is a piece of cake and you will be done in no time, but do not count your chickens before they hatch. Eventually the switchbacks get much steeper with no reprieve. But at least this means that everytime you stop for water you will get a slightly better view through the trees. Slowly there becomes more and more boulders and rocky terrain, signifying that you are nearly done your steep climb. Remember, when you get to the top you can take a much needed snack break.
Your hike is not yet over though! You are still not at the coliseum that gives Coliseum Mountain its name. From here you will start walking along a rocky ridge. This involved a scree field that Sarah was not fond (actually, Sarah was terrified and could not look at anything except her feet for fear of flying off the cliff).You will also walk through treed areas, snow (if doing this hike in May), and hurricane force winds. When we got across the ridge to an obvious viewpoint our group felt accomplished enough, but you could continue on to climb up to the top of the coliseum. We heard people saying it was between a half hour to a full hour to get there and we were already satisfied and looking forward to pie at the Miner’s Cafe in Nordegg, so we turned back.
For how much climbing was involved, I did not find this trail spectacular as it was mostly switchbacks through the forest. I felt that the views, while great, were not amazing. I would describe it as more of a viewpoint than a magical scene in nature (note: Braedyn is being a little harsh here). We did however definitely earn our pies after this one.