The Blackshale Suspension Bridge is nestled in the heart of Kananaskis country, and is a short, free AND fun outing that is a little different compared to most other hikes in the region.
It's a great hike for people of all ages, especially families with kids, as you can choose between taking a longer hike (6km from the Black Prince Day Use area) or a shorter option (1km directly from the road), so even with little ones in tow, the suspension bridge is easily accessible.
Keep reading this blog post for all the information you’ll need to hike to the Blackshale suspension bridge in Kananaskis, including key details of the hike, information on where to park, and explaining the different hike options to get to the suspension bridge (long or short).
THE BLACKSHALE SUSPENSION BRIDGE HIKE OVERVIEW
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BLACKSHALE SUSPENSION BRIDGE - KEY INFORMATION
Here is the key hike information:
How Long is the hike to Blackshale Suspension Bridge?
There are two trail options for reaching the Blackshale Suspension Bridge. The most popular route starts at the Black Prince day use parking lot, and this hike takes you through a scenic forest to the suspension bridge. This trail, known as Blackshale Suspension Bridge via Black Prince on AllTrails, is 6.1 km out-and-back.
For those seeking a quicker hike, there’s a much shorter but steeper option. You can park along the road and follow the Blackshale Suspension Bridge trail on AllTrails, which is just 1 km out-and-back.
Is the Hike Difficult??
Both trail options are easy; however, though the shorter route is a bit steeper. The trail via Black Prince is more of a gentle climb, and much more interesting in our opinion.
What is the Elevation Gain on the Trail?
351 elevation from the Black Prince day use area and 58m elevation directly from the road
How Long Does it Take to Reach the Suspension Bridge?
The hike starting at the Black Prince car park takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend exploring the suspension bridge.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Blackshale Suspension Bridge?
You can hike to the suspension bridge all year round, although in the winter Parks Canada cordons off off the entrance to the bridge with tape, as the snow makes it too heavy to safely accommodate too many people. That said, we've visited in the winter and people definitely do still cross the bridge.... naughty, naughty! Our favourite time to go is during shoulder season as it's nice and quiet and without the crowds.
Before heading to Kananaskis, be sure to check the Peter Lougheed advisories - if the bridge is closed you will see a message like the below:
Do I need a Permit or Park Pass?
A reminder that this hike is in Kananaskis country and you need to purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. This can either be purchased online or at designated kiosks in the area.
HOW TO GET THERE
For directions to the Black Prince parking lot, search for 'Black Prince Day Use Area' in Google Maps. If you're traveling from Calgary, head west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and take the exit for Kananaskis Country (Highway 40 South). Continue on Highway 40 South for about 50 km, passing through Kananaskis Village, until you reach the junction with Highway 742 (also known as Smith Dorrian Trail). It's not far along this road, and you will head off just a few hundred meters to the Black Prince Day Use car park, which is well sign posted.
The drive from Calgary to the Blackshale Suspension Bridge typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
If you’re coming from Canmore or the Rocky Mountains, you can take the same route along Highway 40 South as from Calgary, or alternatively, take Highway 742. This is a beautiful drive past Spray Lakes, though it does take about 30 minutes longer. It’s a scenic route, but it depends on how much time you have!
The Black Prince Day Use Area is a large parking lot, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a spot. An outhouse is also located in the parking area for convenience.
Blackshale Suspension Bridge via Black Prince Trail Map (6.1km):
You will see the shorter trail route shown above (just below the yellow '1' circle)
Blackshale Suspension Bridge (1km):
THE TRAIL TO THE SUSPENSION BRIDGE
To reach the trailhead, head back to Smith Dorrien Trail (Highway 742 - the road you just drove along to get here), cross it, and then look for a sign on the left directing you into the woods towards the High Rockies Trail.
Once you have found the trail, the path winds through the trees, gently gaining elevation, almost without knowing it. After about 400m you will take a right turn along the High Rockies Trail. In the summer this is also a popular mountain biking route, so be prepared to step out the way if bikers come along!
Once the snow has fallen, the trail can get quite slippery. We highly recommend wearing ice cleats for any winter hiking - you don't realize that you need them until you do!
The path is pretty, without being spectacular, but there are regular openings where you get some nice views of the mountains.
After around 3km you will reach the suspension bridge. Just before getting there, you will walk past a yellow 'congestion' sign, presumably installed to warn bikers of the upcoming crowds by the suspension bridge.
We've only ever visited in 'off season' and on both occasions have barely seen anyone on the hike, let alone the bridge. That said, in the summer and during busy periods, I've heard that the lure of snapping that perfect Instagram photo means there can often be a queue to cross the bridge. Be courteous, and respect the recommended 20 people maximum on the bridge.
THE SUSPENSION BRIDGE
The suspension bridge spans 240 feet and feels really well-constructed to walk on. It is reinforced with wires to prevent swaying, and the bridge deck is solid underfoot. The bridge is made up of more of a 'grating' than traditional 'slats', making it safer for pets, people pushing mountain bikes across, and likely offering some comfort to those who may have a fear of heights!
You can see how sturdy the construction is, although it's still recommended to only have 20 people on the bridge at one time. I'd like to think that is a very conservative estimate though.
At the other side of the bridge there is a nice bench to take in some of the surrounding mountain views.
At this point, you can either head back the way you came, or, head down the shorter trail option directly to the road. We actually went back this way as we were in a bit of a rush, and just walked back along the highway. We saw a few pretty unprepared hikers slipping and sliding all over the place trying to climb up.... I can only imagine how they fared going back down. A second reminder to wear ice cleats or spikes!
THE BLACKSHALE SUSPENSION BRIDGE - FAQ
Is the Blackshale Suspension Bridge Suitable for Children?
Absolutely! I haven't met a kid yet that doesn't love charging across a suspension bridge, while the adults all carefully make their way across!
Is the Hike Dog Friendly?
Yes, the trail is very dog friendly. We took our golden retriever and had no issues at all. The bridge doesn't have any large gaps between the slats (it is more of a grate / mesh), so it is safe for pups paws. Remember to keep dogs leashed.
When is the Suspension Bridge Closed?
The bridge is closed during the winter, but the exact date that the bridge closes changes every year. Usually it will stay open until there is a significant snowfall. This year, it was closed on 22nd November after a heavy snowfall (for reference).
Is the Suspension Bridge Safe?
Yes, it's incredibly well built and very safe.
Is the Blackshale Suspension Bridge Free?
Yes, it is completely free to access the bridge (assuming you have a Kananaskis Pass)
What Wildlife Might I Encounter on the Trail?
As with all of the Canadian Rockies, this is bear country, so carry bear spray and know how to use it. We didn't see any wildlife on the trail though.
WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU
Good Hiking boots – Make sure the whole family has some good hiking boots. In the summer you could get away doing the hike in sneakers, but in winter you will need some form of traction device, as the trail can get icy.
Ice Cleats - we recently bought the girls these Kids Ice Cleats by High Stream Gear off Amazon. They've worn them a few times and we are really happy with them so far. Me and Susie both have the Kahtoola MICROspikes and really like those as well. Neither of these are affiliate links; just products that we like.
Phone – it's worth noting that there is no signal on the hike, but I always carry it anyway.
Food and Water – We recently bought both of our kids Camelbaks so that they can drink on the go and it has been a game changer! Bring plenty of snacks and gummy treats!
Dress in Layers - Weather can change quickly in the mountains. Dressing in layers lets you adjust to whatever comes your way
First Aid Kit – I always recommend bringing a basic first aid kit in your bag as a precaution.
Bear spray – This hike is in bear country. Make lots of noise (I’m pretty sure no bears would want anything to do with our noisy kids though!)
ENJOY EXPLORING THE BLACKSHALE SUSPENSION BRIDGE
In summary, the Blackshale Suspension bridge is a fun hike that is perfect for families. Its definitely worth trying to visit during the off season so that you won't be disturbed by bikers on the trail, and you have a much better chance of getting the bridge all to yourself.
If you enjoyed this hike, why not try some of the others in the area?
Grotto Canyon
As always, if you have any questions about the hike feel free to ask away in the comments section!
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