The bedrock forming Albright Ridge is limestone of the Rundle Group, which is of Lower Carboniferous (Mississippian) age, about 340 million years old. It had its origin in a warm shallow sea much like the modern day Bahamas. Reef building organisms such as coral slowly built up in layers, eventually hardening into rock. Overlying this is the Triassic age Sulphur Mountain Formation (approximately 250 million years old) which is composed of siltstones and minor sandstones deposited in a deeper water marine environment. These rocks were uplifted and folded during the formation of the Rocky Mountains, then shaped by glaciation into the landscape that we see today.

Small shallow caves are found in the limestone. These are typically vertical and require advanced caving skills. Look for fossil coral in the limestone areas. Views of extensive exposed limestone slabs can be enjoyed from the ridge top.

From the sign at the parking area, the route follows an ATV track through a logged area. This section is often wet and overgrown. After 600 m there is a sign indicating that the route turns right (uphill) into selectively logged areas. After a few hundred metres the flagged route enters the forest and works its way up along a stream, eventually leaving the forest. This is the end of the marked trail.

Once in the open, follow a small stream up the valley. Views of the ridge steadily improve. The main route marked on the map climbs to a point on a spur ridge that overlooks three beautiful unnamed lakes. There are many options once in the alpine. Two potential loops are shown on the map.

The West Ridge Loop climbs up to the western end of Albright Ridge and follows the ridge crest. There are very good views of Hook Lake to the southwest and the main ranges of the Rocky Mountains. From the high point, one can descend to the main route and complete the loop.

The Lake Loop climbs up the spur ridge from the end of the main route and follows the ridge crest southeast, descending to the farthest lake and returning along the shore of the other lake. When returning from the lakes, it is best to climb up and cross the ridge to join the main route, as indicated on the map. Avoid contouring around the end of the ridge, as it puts one on a difficult steep sideslope.

From Tumbler Ridge, drive north towards Chetwynd on Hwy 29 for 8.8 km to the turnoff for the Wolverine Forest Service Road (FSR). Zero your odometer at the start of this road, as km markers are sporadic after km 17. This is a radio controlled road (channel RR-12, frequency 150.50 MHz) and there can be industrial traffic, especially for the first 17 km. Road conditions are generally rough, and a truck or jeep is needed, especially for the last section. It is best to check with the Tumbler Ridge Visitor Centre for current conditions. Keep in mind that this is a remote road with very little traffic and no cell service, so plan ahead and consider bringing emergency communication.

Follow the Wolverine FSR to a junction at km 38.1, and take the left fork at this junction. Keep going up the road. There is a rock cut area with slumps that have narrowed the road so that it is just passable and very rough. Continue to km 52, where there is a washout at a bridge. Park here, and continue up the road on foot until you reach the trailhead at km 52.9. There is a sign at the trailhead.

This route is in bear country; travel in groups and make noise.

Please pack out what you packed in.

Alpine weather can change suddenly – carry appropriate clothing and a map and compass or GPS.

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