The Green Monster Icefall in Kananaskis has long been popular amongst ice climbers, and has recently gained increasing popularity amongst hikers. The frozen waterfall’s distinctive green hue has captivated attention on social media, sparking curiosity in avid hikers and beginners alike.
The hike to the Green Monster is a relatively easy trail, with one small technical section. It is a popular winter trail, not only because it is accessible in the snowy months, but because the snow and ice makes it possible to get up close to the frozen waterfall, which isn’t accessible during the summer months.
Green Monster Icefall Hike Summary
- Difficulty: Moderate*
- Distance: 10.9 km round trip
- Elevation: 531 metres
- Trail type: Out-and-back
- Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
- Trailhead: Evan-Thomas Trailhead Parking Lot
*This hike is mostly flat as it follows the creek upstream. There is one technical section about 2 km from the icefall which involves chains and a narrow path along a cliff. If you have a significant fear of heights, this trail may not be for you.
Green Monster Trail Description
The Green Monster hike starts at the Evan-Thomas Day Use area, off Highway 40. Park in the lot and take the trail next to the official parks signage. This parking lot has pit toilets available. I’d recommend starting early, as the parking lot fills up on the weekends.
The trail begins on a fire road, known as Old Baldy Trail. There is a junction right after the parking lot, stay left and continue away from the highway. The trail here was a mix of ice and mud, as warm chinook winds have melted away the snow pack in certain areas. Even with some muddy sections, we wore our microspikes for the duration of the hike.
Having microspikes or cleats is not optional in my opinion, as the trail can become very slippery. Not only does this improve your safety, but it also makes the hike easier and more enjoyable. If you don’t have your own, you can rent microspikes (or trail crampons) from the UCalgary Outdoor Centre for $6.00/day. You don’t need to be a student to rent from them.
Just before the next junction in the trail, you’ll see a sign for hunters. The trail passes the Wildland boundary for a couple metres, before crossing back into the park. At the junction, take a sharp right and start heading downhill. Shortly after this turn, you’ll reach the Evan-Thomas creek bed.
Connecting with Evan-Thomas Creek Route
Here you will connect with Evan-Thomas Creek Route, the trail that runs alongside the creek. I recommend downloading a map for this section, as it can be a little difficult to follow here.
Continue walking along the creek (following it upstream). The creek is partly frozen, with running water below the ice. The path stays mostly with the creek on your left hand side. As you walk along the creek, keep an eye out to the cliffs on your right. There are a number of frozen waterfalls along the way that you can stop to admire.
Around the 3.6 km mark, you’ll cross the frozen creek and reach a partially frozen waterfall that blocks the creek-side path. You’ve arrived at the chains section.
The Chains Section
The chains section is the most difficult section of the hike, and the reasoning behind my “moderate” rating. This section has a short and steep climb up a narrow path to the rocks where the chains are. Note that during midday this area can become a bit of a traffic jam, as there is no space for two-way traffic.
The chains follow the path as it wraps around the side of the cliff. There is a narrow ledge to walk along. Take your time here to be sure of your footing. After the chains, there are some ropes to help you descend the steep hill back to the creek-side path.
The remaining 1.5 km of the trail is mostly flat and short, weaving through some forested sections before arriving at the Green Monster.
The Green Monster
The Green Monster icefall itself is beautiful. While we were there, several ice climbers were ascending the waterfall. We ate our lunch near the falls and took some photos before heading back.
If there are ice climbers on the ice fall while you are there, avoid walking beneath them. It’s not uncommon for climbers to dislodge chunks of ice as they climb, and you could be injured if these fall on you. There is plenty of space to walk around the climbers, so it shouldn’t be a problem.
We hiked back out the way we came. There was no backlog at the chains section on our way back, so I’d recommend avoiding it between 12-1:00 pm on a weekend for a smoother trip.
Can Dogs Do the Green Monster Hike?
We brought our pup on the trail to Green Monster and he did great! He was a little unsure on the chains section, but was able to navigate it with a little assistance. If you have a medium to large dog that is comfortable in the mountains, they should be fine.
Make sure to keep your dog on leash at all times. It’s the law for all Alberta Parks, and it can be incredibly impactful to wildlife if these rules aren’t followed. If you’re concerned about your dog’s ability to do the chains while leashed or to stay under control on the trail, leave them at home.
This hike looks incredible 😍 The Green Monster totally lives up to the hype! Love that it’s mostly easy with just a little adventure at the chains section and the tips about microspikes are super helpful.