Vents Ridge (also known as White Buddha) is a moderate hike in Elbow Valley that sits between the more popular Prairie Mountain and Powderface Ridge. While I had hiked Prairie Mountain many years before and heard about Powderface Ridge, this year was the first time that Vents Ridge made it on my radar. I cannot believe I didn’t know about this hike sooner!
The hike to Vents Ridge has many variations because the area is full of interconnected trails that merge and diverge across the valleys. However, we chose a 6 km route with about 330 metres of elevation that felt like the perfect balance of hiking and forested stroll.
Vents Ridge (White Buddha) Hike Summary
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6 km round trip
- Elevation: 331 metres
- Trail type: Loop
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Trailhead: Powderface Creek Trail Parking Lot
Powderface Creek Trail Parking Lot is not huge. I’d recommend coming early (we arrived at the trailhead at 10 am and it was almost completely full) or later in the evening. The hike took us 3.5 hours to complete (with a lunch break), so experienced hikers could probably expect to finish the loop in less than 3 hours without a break.
We took the route that followed Powderface Creek to Vents Ridge to White Buddha Alt Route to Prairie Creek Trail. This loop totals 6 kilometres, and was a nice moderate hike for a half-day trip.
Detailed Trail Description
We began hiking around 10:20 am. The trail begins with a short climb up a wide but rocky path. We crossed a bridge over a dry creek bed about 15 minutes from the trailhead, and about 20 minutes in we hit the junction with Vents Ridge. This narrow trail follows a series of switchbacks to the summit.
Note: As you’re ascending the ridge, you may notice some short and steep trails that “shortcut” the switchbacks. Please do not use these trails. They are called social trails and contribute to the erosion of the environment. Staying on the main trail is one of the core tenants of leave-no-trace.
Ascending the Ridge
As you ascend the ridge, the view of the valley opens up below. Near the top you will arrive at the White Buddha cliffs. From here, the trail follows along the cliff to lead to the summit. You may see some climbers here as it is a popular spot for outdoor climbing.
Vents Ridge Summit
The summit of the ridge is covered in loose rock. There are some flat rocks that jut out over the valley, and make for a great photo spot. If you enjoy eating with a view, this might be a good spot to stay. However, we decided to keep going because it was only 11:30 when we reached the top.
We stayed at the summit for about 20 minutes, took some photos and refueled with snacks and water (especially for the dog). Once the wind started to make us cold, we continued the trail — following White Buddha Alt Route through the forest and down the north side of the ridge.
Descending the Ridge
This trail follows the cliffs down for a long time. Around 25 minutes from the summit we reached the junction that brings you down to Prairie Creek trail. This trail was not super obvious, but it was marked by some orange flagging tape.
Note: We passed some hikers on our descent who were making their way back up. They had difficulty finding the trail. It is a good idea to follow the map. This route on AllTrails provided us with accurate navigation.
Shortly after the junction away from White Buddha, the trail reaches a wobbly bridge creek crossing. It is a good idea to take this bridge one at a time to avoid throwing anyone off balance. From here, follow Prairie Creek Trail back to Highway 66. The trail passes through the aspen groves and to one nice viewpoint over the valley. After descending from the ridge, the elevation changes on the trail are very mild.
Shortly before reaching the highway, you will cross Prairie Creek again — this time over a fully constructed bridge. From there, you will continue walking for a few minutes before reaching Highway 66. Turn right at the highway and it will bring you back to the parking lot.