Have you ever heard of Kananaskis Country? It’s a hidden gem in the Canadian Rockies, offering outdoor adventures as good as Banff and Jasper National Parks. You can relax at a Nordic spa or explore hidden lakes and waterfalls. Kananaskis Village and the area around it are perfect for nature lovers. But what makes it so special, and why should you visit for your next outdoor trip?
Key Takeaways
- Kananaskis Country covers over 4,250 square kilometers of parks, lakes, valleys, and foothills in the Canadian Rockies.
- Kananaskis Village offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to canoeing and horseback riding.
- The area is known for its Nordic spa experiences, scenic trail networks, and proximity to the stunning Kananaskis Trail (Highway 40).
- Kananaskis Country provides ample accommodation options, including the rustic HI Kananaskis Wilderness Hostel and the luxurious Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.
- Visitors can explore natural wonders like Troll Falls, Grassi Lakes, and the Widow Maker Rapids along the Kananaskis Trail.
Kananaskis Village: An Outdoor Playground
Nestled just off Highway 40, about 20 minutes south of the Trans-Canada Highway, Kananaskis Village is a small collection of accommodations. It caters to outdoor enthusiasts. The village’s highlight is the Kananaskis Nordic Spa at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. This spa is for adults only and offers hot pools, cold plunges, saunas, and more.
The lodge also has a children’s waterpark and babysitting services. This makes it a great place for families.
Explore the Trails Surrounding Kananaskis Village
There are many trails around Kananaskis Village for quick nature hikes. From the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, the Village Rim Trail goes almost all the way around the village. It also leads to longer trails like Terrace Trail and Mt. Kidd Trail.
You can even walk all the way to the Ribbon Creek Day Use Area. In the winter, these trails become popular for snowshoeing.
Stay at the Rustic HI Kananaskis Wilderness Hostel
Just outside Kananaskis Village, the HI Kananaskis Wilderness Hostel is a cozy, rustic cabin stay for outdoor lovers. It has clean dorm and private rooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and an attendant. They can give you info on local hikes and attractions.
“Kananaskis Village is a small collection of hotels located just off Highway 40, about 20 minutes south of the Trans-Canada Highway.”
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures Near Kananaskis Village
Kananaskis Country covers over 4,000 square kilometers. It’s full of parks, lakes, valleys, and foothills for outdoor lovers. The area includes the Ribbon Lake hike and Ribbon Falls hike, perfect for adventure seekers.
Hike to Ribbon Lake and Ribbon Falls
The Ribbon Creek Day Use Area is where many hikes start. You can go to Ribbon Falls and Ribbon Lake from here. The trail has a chain section to help hikers and leads to Olympic Summit and Mount Allan.
Visit the Picturesque Troll Falls
Troll Falls is a stunning and easy-to-reach waterfall in Alberta. It’s between Kananaskis Village and Nakiska Ski Area. The trail is simple, making it great for families and all fitness levels. It’s even fun in winter when the falls freeze over.
Go Skiing or Snowboarding at Nakiska Ski Area
Nakiska Ski Area is just a 5-minute drive from Kananaskis Village. It was opened for the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. The resort has 64 runs and 4 chairlifts on Mount Allan, open from mid-November to late-April. Nakiska is a top spot for winter fun, offering great skiing and snowboarding.
Exploring Kananaskis Trail (Highway 40)
Kananaskis Trail, or Highway 40, takes you deep into Kananaskis Country. It goes through many provincial parks and recreation areas. Canoe Meadows is a great spot for canoeists, kayakers, and river surfers. It’s also perfect for a leisurely walk by the river to see the Widow Maker rapids.
Canoe or Kayak at Canoe Meadows
Canoe Meadows is famous for its exciting rapids. It’s a top spot for those who love canoeing or kayaking. The Widow Maker, a narrow and tough part of the river, is ideal for river surfing.
Admire the Widow Maker Rapids
A bit further down Highway 40 from Canoe Meadows, you’ll find the Widow Maker rapids. This part of the river looks scary and has strong currents. It’s a must-see for anyone on the Kananaskis Trail. You can get close to the rocky banks for a better look at this amazing natural wonder.
Relax at Barrier Lake Day Use Area
Next, Highway 40 leads you to Barrier Lake. It’s a big reservoir that’s great for paddling, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The Barrier Lake Day Use Area has picnic spots, a boat launch, and trails like Jewel Pass and Yates Mountain. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful nature.
“The Kananaskis Trail (Highway 40) is a scenic and adventurous route through the heart of Kananaskis Country, offering a treasure trove of outdoor activities and natural wonders.”
Natural Wonders Along Highway 40
Kananaskis Country is famous for its stunning landscapes. Highway 40 is no different, offering hidden gems and outdoor fun. You’ll find beauty and adventure here.
Hike Around Mt. Lorette Ponds
The Mt. Lorette Ponds trail is a top spot for easy, scenic hikes. It’s paved and flat, perfect for everyone. You’ll see beautiful ponds, picnic spots, and fire pits along the way.
This trail is great for all ages and abilities. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the Kananaskis hiking trails.
Stay at Sundance by Basecamp
For a special stay, try Sundance by Basecamp (formerly Sundance Lodges). It’s all about glamping in luxury teepees and trapper’s tents. Or, choose a traditional campsite.
Enjoy hot showers, gear rentals, and pre-prepared meals for campfire dining. It’s a unique Kananaskis accommodations experience.
Go Horseback Riding at Boundary Ranch
Kananaskis horseback riding lets you see the mountains up close. Boundary Ranch offers guided tours for all levels. Try the Ridge Ride or Trail Blazer for a memorable ride.
“The paved, flat trail around Mt. Lorette Ponds offers one of the easiest and most scenic walking experiences in Kananaskis.”
| Hiking Trail | Distance (km) | Elevation Gain (m) | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mt. Lorette Ponds | 1 | Flat | Easy, wheelchair-accessible |
| Forgetmenot Pond | 1 | Flat | Easy |
| Wedge Pond | 1 | Flat | Easy |
| Many Springs Trail | 1.6 | Minimal | Easy |
| Troll Falls | 3.4 | 60 | Easy, family-friendly |
Kananaskis Village, Alberta: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Kananaskis Village is a dream spot for nature lovers. It’s in the Canadian Rockies’ heart, filled with outdoor adventures and beautiful views. You can find peace at a spa or thrill on a hike here.
The Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is a highlight. It offers a top-notch spa experience. Enjoy treatments, hot tubs, and mountain views. The area’s trails are perfect for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing in winter.
For a wild adventure, try the HI Kananaskis Wilderness Hostel. It’s surrounded by nature’s beauty. From there, explore Ribbon Lake and Falls or do the Tent Ridge Hike for amazing views.
Nearby, the Nakiska Ski Area is great for skiing and snowboarding. Or, take a drive on Highway 40. Stop to see the Widow Maker Rapids and Barrier Lake Day Use Area for a calm moment.
Kananaskis Village is full of natural wonders. So, bring your hiking boots and adventure spirit. Get ready for the best of Kananaskis Country.
“Kananaskis Country is a jewel in the Canadian Rockies, offering unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation and natural exploration.”
Outdoor Recreation in Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis Country is a vast wilderness area in the Canadian Rockies. It offers many outdoor adventures for visitors. Two top activities here are hiking to the stunning Grassi Lakes and exploring the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes.
Hike to Grassi Lakes
The Grassi Lakes trail is a favorite in Kananaskis Country. It’s a 4 km (2.5 mile) hike with beautiful turquoise lakes at the end. Starting near Canmore, it’s easy to get to for those in the area.
It’s a hike for most fitness levels. You can choose an easy or harder path. The harder path shows off a lovely waterfall.
Visit Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes
In the heart of Kananaskis and Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes are stunning. They’re perfect for camping, picnicking, kayaking, boating, fishing, or stand-up paddleboarding. A trail around Upper Kananaskis Lake offers a peaceful walk and wildlife spotting.
| Hiking Trails | Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grassi Lakes | 4 km (2.5 miles) | 125 m (410 ft) | Easy to Moderate |
| Rawson Lake | 7 km (4 miles) | 520 m (1,700 ft) | Moderate |
| Ha Ling Peak | 7.8 km (4.8 miles) | 800 m (2,600 ft) | Challenging |
“The Grassi Lakes are one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Kananaskis Country. The vibrant turquoise hue of the water is simply mesmerizing.”
Cultural and Educational Attractions
Kananaskis Country is more than just outdoor fun and nature. It’s also home to cultural and educational spots. A top spot is the Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Discovery Centre. It’s a place to learn about the area’s history, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
At the Discovery Centre, you’ll find exhibits that tell the story of Kananaskis. You can explore hiking trails, learn about local wildlife, and uncover the history of the land. It’s perfect for both first-time visitors and those who know the area well.
The Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Discovery Centre welcomes visitors from May to mid-October and December to March. This means you can visit during the busy times or enjoy it quieter during the winter. It’s a great way to learn and have fun all year.
| Attraction | Description | Seasonality |
|---|---|---|
| Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Discovery Centre | Comprehensive exhibits and displays on the history, wildlife, and hiking trails of Kananaskis Country | Open May to mid-October and December to March |
“The Discovery Centre is an invaluable resource for enhancing your understanding and appreciation of Kananaskis attractions.”
More Hiking Trails in Kananaskis
Kananaskis Country is a paradise for hikers, with trails for all levels of experience. The Rawson Lake and Serrail Ridge hikes are famous. They lead to the summit of Ha Ling Peak, a big challenge.
Hike to Rawson Lake and Serrail Ridge
The trail to Rawson Lake is 7 km long and moderate. It goes along the lake and past a beautiful waterfall. Then, it climbs up to a great view of the lake.
For a bigger challenge, you can go to Serrail Ridge. There, you get to see the Kananaskis Lakes and mountains.
Summit Ha Ling Peak for Panoramic Views
The hike up Ha Ling Peak is tough but rewarding. It’s 7.8 km long and goes up 800 meters. The view from the top is amazing, showing Canmore and the Kananaskis scenery.
It’s a popular trail, so make sure you’re well-prepared. You’ll need strong hiking skills and the right gear.
Kananaskis has trails for easy walks or tough climbs. With good planning and gear, you can have amazing adventures. Experience the beauty of this Canadian spot.
Unique Kananaskis Experiences
Kananaskis Country is full of unique experiences that make your visit unforgettable. You can see the night sky in all its glory because of the area’s dark skies. This is due to little light pollution, making it one of the darkest places on Earth.
On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way and countless stars. This is because you’re far from city lights. It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Go Stargazing Under Dark Skies
In Kananaskis, you get to see the stars in a way you’ve never seen them before. The mountains and the dark sky make a beautiful sight. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the stars or just enjoys nature’s beauty.
Explore Blackshale Suspension Bridge
The Blackshale Suspension Bridge is another must-see in Kananaskis. It’s a footbridge over a deep canyon. Walking on it, you’ll feel the thrill of adventure and be surrounded by stunning mountains.
This bridge lets you experience the wild beauty of Kananaskis up close. It’s an adventure you won’t forget.