BOU AVENUE
Mesa Butte
On 23 March 2024, Kevin Caron, Chester Fitchett, Shelley Milutinovic, Marta Wojnarowska, Zosia Zgolak and I hiked up Mesa Butte in Alberta's Kananaskis Country Public Land Use Zone.  The most popular ascent route via a well-maintained and signed trail along the south ridge--known unofficially as "Mesa Grind"--is well-documented in Gillean Daffern's Kananaskis Country Trail Guide.  Most of us had already ascended Mesa Butte in the past, and this was simply an excuse to socialize in an outdoor setting.  Despite snowy conditions, the hike itself was very straightforward, and we had no serious issues with traction or route-finding.  On the other hand, the drive to the trailhead was a bit more concerning with snow-covered roads, but fortunately, we all made it there and back safely.
The trail apparently was an ice rink only a week earlier. The group climbs up the trail on the south ridge of Mesa Butte.
Yep, just stay in the back and follow the rest of the group! Despite the snow cover, the trail is still easy to follow.
More scenic than usual! The snow-clad trees all look surreal on this day.
Hiking into the clouds?

The group ascends the final semi-open section of the ridge before the top.
Sublime. The trees are the main attraction on this day when far-reaching views are limited.
A winter wonderland even though it is actually spring! Here is a look back down the partially-open upper ridge.
Shelley looks grumpy! Gathered at the campsite near the top of Mesa Butte (1689 metres) are Chester, Marta, Zosia, Kevin, Shelley and Sonny.

Short and simple!

The group retraces its steps down the ridge.

 

A nice alternative for those who are sick of the crowds at Prairie Mountain! Total Distance:  4.3 kilometres
Round-Trip Time:  2 hours 45 minutes
Cumulative Elevation Gain:  296 metres

GPX Data