Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge

Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge is a 73-metre cable footbridge over a steep creek gorge on the multi-use High Rockies Trail. Its long deck crosses a forested ravine with mountain views, making the bridge itself the payoff. Stop for the crossing and the view, or include it in a longer hike or ride.

The short roadside approach from the Smith-Dorrien/Spray Trail (Highway 742) is about 1 km return, with a short uphill walk. Its start is unmarked and there is no formal parking lot, so it is easy to miss. The longer route starts at Black Prince Day Use and follows the High Rockies Trail for 6.8 km return; pit toilets are available at that staging area. Download directions before leaving because cell service is not typically available along this highway. A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for parked vehicles.

The walk to the bridge is brief from the roadside but has a noticeable uphill section. Hikers and mountain bikers share the High Rockies Trail. Look along the 73-metre deck to take in its suspended curve, then turn toward the creek gorge, forest and mountains around it. For a photo, include as much of the curving deck as you can with the trees behind it; the view from the bridge brings the surrounding mountains into the frame.

Built in 2016–17, the bridge lets trail users cross Blackshale Creek directly instead of detouring around its steep creek bed. Its catenary design uses paired main wire ropes, hanging cables to support the deck, cyclist-oriented guardrails and wind bracing.

The bridge itself closes seasonally in winter, while a bypass trail remains open. Check current route information before setting out.