Black Cat

This is likely the starting point for Mount Solomon Hike and is also used by mountain bikers for the MS Bike Tour Day 1 Grip Option to Black Cat Ranch.

Mount Solomon Hike is a moderate hike in the foothills through heavily forested side hills and ending on a grassy/rocky viewpoint facing West over Brule Lake (Athabasca River) and the front ranges of the Rockies.

#18 is likely the preferred route
#18a is considered an alternate, more direct but steep route

Directions:

From Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway) west of Hinton turn North onto Highway 40 toward Grande Cache. After crossing the bridge over the Athabasca River, watch for sign towards Brule / Black Cat Ranch on your left side at the top of the hill. Turn left and then follow the paved road around to the right. Drive about 11 km towards Brule and watch for the sign to Black Cat Ranch. Turn right onto the gravel road, and follow the road beside the train bridge / road washout area to a small parking area with a gate on the right. The trailhead is on the right side of the gate, and is fairly well marked though a bit confusing initially. The creek crossing might be high and there is a small bridge, then some meandering through a flood-plain type flat area which can be muddy.

This trail is unsanctioned.