Mockingbird Lookout was our destination of choice for an easy afternoon walk. Situated in the foothills of the Eastern Slopes of the Canadian Rockies (about an hour northwest of Calgary, Alberta), the gentle climb up a wide road is a summer saunter. At the top of the flower-strewn hill, panoramic views of the Ghost Wilderness Area, immediately to the west, never fails to amaze first-time hikers.

Hauling out the binoculars we scanned the peaks for Black Rock and the weathered wooden remains of the former lookout on its windswept summit. Further south, visible on a clear day, is Moose Mountain and another active tower. Both Moose and Black Rock are accessible by hiking, but each one is different.

Moose Mountain is accessed by driving west from Bragg Creek. The first section of the trail winds through the forest on a sometimes rocky road. Views gradually improve as the road climbs up the hill and enters green meadows. The last part of the trail switchbacks through loose rock, summiting on the bald mountaintop with bird’s eye views of Kananaskis Country.

Black Rock might be geographically close to Mockingbird, but access is different story. It’s a bumpy, dusty drive west on a forestry reserve road to the hill above the Ghost River. From here, it’s a trudge down to the river and upstream to the start of the climb. The trail winds through the forest before accessing the rocky ridge that climbs to the summit. A short section of exposure near the top is a drawback for some, but adventurous hikers enjoy a unique look at Devil’s Head from the tower’s vantage point.

Hiking to fire lookouts is a popular activity for obvious reasons: views, ease of access (whether road or marked trail), and choice of difficulty (from an easy stroll to a challenging adventure).

Lookout Logistics
Easy: Mockingbird Lookout (3.2 km, 355 m elevation gain), access via gated road.
Moderate: Moose Mountain (7 km, 670 m elevation gain), access via rocky road and trail.
Difficult: Black Rock Mountain (9 km, 892 m elevation gain), access via steep trail, some exposure.

Just remember, active lookouts are private residences so please respect the privacy of lookout staff.