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2026 - Week #1 Challenge
Carter Buttress Viewpoint
Strava Segment Link
Who is Carter? What is a buttress? Some mystery are best left unsolved. Carter buttress in the speak easy of Grotto mountain, tucked away on the east end, only whispered about in tight exclusive circles. Hidden in plain sight. The classiest way up Grotto. No groveling up an endless scree field searching for that next Cairn. Carter ignores that entirely with its clean switchbacks, a deceptively manageable grade (early on), and a viewpoint that reframes the whole valley. Do yourself a favour and get this in your weekly rotation.
Hidden gem is an overused phrase. For Carter Buttress it's just accurate.
Getting there
Park at the Rat's Nest Cave Trailhead between Canmore and Exshaw. From the parking lot, take the trail on the West side of the parking lot. Follow the access trail across the creek then up towards a clearing and under powerlines.
The challenge starts right across the clearing where the trail narrows into a singletrack. If you go too far and follow the wider gravel track, you will end up at the entrance of the Rat's Nest Cave. See below:
Your start line, can't miss it! Start your watch here.
Start your watch as soon as you enter the narrow trail immediately after crossing the powerlines. The orange and black polka dot ribbon signals the start of your effort.
Your finish line is the cairn with the orange flagging tape. Stop your watch there.
- Distance: 2.5km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 745 meters +-
- Where to Park: Rat's Nest Cave Trailhead
- Surface: Mostly Technical
