Ever since moving to the Ghost River Valley about 25 years ago, I have been trying to get to know this area which – despite its proximity to Calgary – is not well known, and moreover, has a poor reputation because of excessive OHV activities by often undisciplined users. I did a lot of exploring on my own, sought tips from some oldtimers and soon took friends along to show them the beauty and variety of the landscape. After launching the Ghost Watershed Stewardship Society (GWAS) we began regular “Walks in the Watershed” which quickly became very popular. Then we started the “Ghosthikers”, an informal group that also organizes an annual walk along Lake Minnewanka, always with the aim to introduce hikers to the beauty and remoteness of the Ghost Valley.

Eventually, we organized AWA Wild Adventures into the Ghost and there was a reasonably good turnout for most hikes. For 2025 I have set a challenge to introduce at least 60 Wild Adventurers to the Ghost Valley and I count on the support of the AWA staff, members and friends to achieve this goal.