Trail Overview

The trailhead is off Highway 40 west of Cochrane, just past the South Ghost Recreation Site. There's a wide-open area to stage at and air down if needed. Expect lots of snow during the winter; during warmer months, there's a fair amount of mud and deep ruts so decent tires are a must. There are bypasses for the bad spots if you're in a low-clearance vehicle or don't want to go in the ruts. This connects to the Meadow Creek Trail at roughly 10.5 kilometers. There are lots of little camp spots, and a few trails branch off this run as well, but make note: some trails have restrictions on trucks and only allow ATVs or dirt bikes.

Photos of Lost Knife

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

Most of the trail is dirt and rock. Spring and fall will make the muddy spots deep and very rutted, but there are lots of go-around areas. During winter, there can be very deep snow and potential for very icy sections.

Technical Rating

Justin Styler

Jun 05, 2026

Open

Mostly dry trail, but plenty of very large puddles, wet mud ruts, and swampy terrain.

Aleks k

Sep 27, 2025

Open

Moderate trail. Was there in dry weather. Couple mud holes out there if someone wants to test new tires or rig capabilities lol, but almost all of the holes have bypasses. Recommend to air down anyway as terrain is quite rough with deep/sharp holes. Other than that with a little bit of experience and common sense - should not be a problem even for basic rig. My Jeep has a short wheelbase, only 1” leveling kit and 32” AT tires which is almost stock and still made it fine. Would recommend a good set of recovery gear such as straps, winch, traction boards and some sort of communication in case things go south. Absolutely base case - to go with the group.

Paul Ge

Jul 02, 2025

Open

This trail has many long sections that are deeply rutted due to people driving it when it’s muddy, when it dries like concrete, it’s very slow and difficult to navigate. . Recommended min of 35inch wheels, not recommended for solo without a winch. The many camping pull-offs are littered with garbage and spent shotgun shells. Progress is very slow due to the condition of the trial and not an enjoyable ride.

Mark Leggott

Apr 25, 2025

Open

Started at FTR end lost knife, went all the way to the lookout. Encountered slimy mud early, needed lockers for the north leg entrance and the wye halfway, little snow here and there, trail is in excellent shape!

Mark Leggott

Mar 18, 2025

Open

Approximately a foot of snow, trail is packed, slippery in places, ice covered puddles, but good shape, no problems to the plateau overlooking the creek.

ford m

Oct 20, 2024

Open

Pretty close to too much for my truck but if you know what you are doing a stock truck with decent clearance is fine for this trail

MKB runner

Apr 28, 2024

Open