30 FUN Things To Do In Kananaskis Country
The collection of Provincial Parks and wildland areas known as Kananaskis Country offers an astounding area to recreate in the Canadian Rockies. While it may not be quite as grand or famous as the neighboring national park, Banff, it sees a fraction of the visitors and has some tremendous activities.
The provincial park system is beloved by Albertans and the visitors who take the time to explore. It’d take years to enjoy all the things to do in Kanansksis. From ice skating on frozen ponds to canoeing on beautiful lakes, climbing towering peaks, downhill mountain biking, and fishing along idealic rivers there is something for everyone here.
A Pass is Needed to Hike in Kananaskis
Visitors are required to hold a Kananaskis Conservation Pass, which covers Kananaskis and the Bow Valley Corridor. This pass is separate from the National Parks Pass needed to visit Banff and the other national parks. Passes may be purchased online and are attached to a license plate number. Requirements are around vehicles and parking, not the individual. This includes parking at the Canmore Nordic Center or Grassi Lakes.
Pass Prices
- Daily Pass: $15 (registers one vehicle)
- Annual Pass: $90 (registers two cars)
A Guide to Understanding the Kananaskis Conservation Pass
Best Things to Do in Kananaskis Country
Paddle on Goat Pond
Goat Pond is one of our favorite spots to enjoy a scenic lake, as it’s relatively close to Canmore. It’s often well protected from the winds and the shore is easiy accessible so it’s a plesant spot to canoe or kayak. There’s also a few nice spots near the damn to the North to have a picnic.
Goat Pond is typically calm and enjoys lots of sunlight with majestic mountain views. It’s also a great alternative when the other lakes in Banff are busy in the summer. A bit of a local secret! You’ll need to bring your own canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard here!
Hike to Grassi Lakes
Grassi Lakes are a series of vibrantly colored spring fed lakes just above the town of Canmore. It’s a popular spot for hikers as the trail to the lake is very easy and it’s accesible all year. Even in the winter the lakes remain unfrozen since they are spring fed.
Head here on a nice summer day or a weekend afternoon, and you’ll unlikely have the trail to yourself. It’s so busy that we actually don’t recommend the trail during peak weekend hours, but it’s still enjoyable none the less. That said if you’re adverse to crowds and don’t mind the cold it’s a really pleasant winter hike or even fat bike.
The mesmerizing colors of the water at Grassi Lakes are remarkable and it’s easy to reach we love to bring family and friends who aren’t as experienced hikers. It’s also a great option for families with small kids as the kids can hike a good portion themselves.
Hike Up Ha Ling Peak
If you want to summit a mountain in Kananaskis, head to the top of the most notable mountains in Canmore, Ha Ling Peak. It is one of the most approachable mountains in the region, with a recently revamped trail that includes steps, informational signs, viewpoints, and a clear trail.
The downside of Ha Ling is its popularity; on a nice summer weekend day, the parking lot and trail are packed with what feels like thousands climbing the short trail to the peak. It’s still a challenging hike as you gain almost 800m in just under 4km. Don’t underestimate this one!
Mountain Bike at the Canmore Nordic Centre
Once the snow melts in Kananaskis in May and June, so do the trails, and a myriad of mountain biking trails cater to any skill set. That could mean a nice mellow bike ride through a field with gorgeous views or screaming down a ridgeline on a white-knuckle ride.
The Canmore Nordic Centre transitions from cross country skiing to mountain biking in the summertime. There is a trail for everyone here, although my personal favorite and go-to is the Odyssey Trail!
Mountain biking has caught on all over North America, and the opportunities and trails continue to grow every season. For the most current information on trails in the area, stop in a local bike shop like Rebound Cycle, Outside Bike in Canmore, or Gear Up, or check out the trails on Trailforks.
Climb To The Top Of Windtower
If you’re looking for a challenging hike/easy scramble, consider hiking to the summit of Windtower! It’s one of the best hikes in Kananaskis Country and provides absolutely epic views of both Canmore and Spray Lake.
It’s a great introduction into scrambling that’s far less crowded than Ha Ling Peak or the East End of Rundle. Route finding can be a little difficult from the West Wind Pass so take your time and avoid ending up over a cliff band.
Dependent on hiking fitness, the hike takes 3-6 hours round trip. As it does gain a fair amount of elevation come prepared for a physical challenge if it’s one of your first summits. More experienced hikers will know what to expect as it very similar to other mountains in the region.
Hike Up to West Wind Pass
West Wind Pass is a fantastic moderate hike that offers many of the same views as Windtower and the neighboring peak of Rimwall Summit. It’s one of our favorite moderate hikes to recommend as it’s not too busy and has wonderful views over the Spray Valley at the pass.
The hike starts out pretty mild in the treeline until West Wind Pass. It’s a steady, uphill, but easy climb to West Wind Pass. It’s around 3km to the pass and the perfect spot to stop for a picnic in the alpine, that’s if it’s not too windy.
Strong hikers and scamblers can add on either Windtower or Rimwall Summit from the pass. Make sure to research these trails before continuing on, as hikers frequently get turned around, particularly on the Rimwall Summit trail.
Relax at the Kananaskis Nordic Spa
The Kananaskis Nordic Spa at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is one of the best places to head on a cool or winter day in the Rockies. It’s here you can find outdoor hot tubs and a pool, as well as a relaxation room, steam room, and saunas. It’s great for a romantic holiday in the Rockies or to enjoy with friends!
Mountain Bike at Moose Mountain
If you’re into mountain biking, Moose Mountain is one of the best places to head in Kananaskis. Moose Mountain’s extensive network of mountain bike trails is undoubtedly one of the best spots in the province to tackle some single track. The area has various trails for beginners and experts, focusing on tech, flow, and some decent intermediate jump trails. It also boasts the most impressive wood features outside of British Columbia.
What’s most notable about Moose Mountain is the ability to do shuttle laps with personal vehicles, which is extremely popular with locals on the weekend. We recommend a high-clearance vehicle and a group of riding buddies, but Alberta 66 Mountain Biking runs an open shuttle on the weekends along with guiding and lessons.
Stay at Sundance Lodge
Sundance Lodge offers glamping style accommodation in the provincial park near the Wasootch Ridge Trailhead and Nakiska Ski Resort. Guests can chose from several accommodation options such as canvas teepees and trappers tents.
It’s an excellent choice for those who wish to have more of a camping adventure, as each site is unserviced. The Kananaskis campground is down a quiet forested road, perfect for basing yourself around some incredible Kananaskis hikes or for stargazing at night.
You aren’t entirely camping here, though. There are hot showers and flush toilets. The staff even serves hot coffee in the morning! The lodge is one of the most unique accommodation options in the Rockies. However, it has a limited number of sites, so you’ll want to book in advance in the summer (it is closed in the winter).
Hike The Tent Ridge Loop
If there is one quintessential hike in Kananaskis it would have to be the Tent Ridge Loop. The scamble along the horsehsoe shaped Tent Ridge offers some of the best views in all the Canadian Rockies. It’s no wonder that many consider it annual must-do hike.
What’s best about the hike is it’s realatively easy for Canadian Rockies. The scamble section is short and the distance covered, aronud 10km feels very approchable for novice hikers. However, make no mistake it’s still a big mountain ridge and should be treated with respect. If you’re after incredible photos it’s a great sunrise or sunset hike.
Bike Highwood Pass
Highwood Pass is the highest paved pass in Canada, with some astounding views of the front range. It lies west of Mount Rae and Mount Arethusa of the Misty Range, south of the Elbow Pass within the Peter Lougheed Provincial Park on Alberta Highway 40.
Due to the elevation and high snow levels, the road closes in the winter months due to avalanche risk. However, at the start of summer, the snow often melts before the official opening date for the highway (typically June 15th).
It makes for an excellent car-free route for cyclists and a pretty nice challenge if you bike the entire route. On a nice early summer day you’ll see plenty of people out enjoying the car free biking experience.
Enjoy Kananaskis Lakes
Kananaskis Lakes are some of our favorite lakes to enjoy in the summer. The Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes are surrounded by colossal peaks that visitors can hike around or enjoy from the shore. Sarrail Ridge is a classic with sweeping views of the lakes.
The lakes have a large beach area that is perfect for enjoying a warm summer day with the family. So pack a blanket and cooler with some treats for a beautiful day out – they even have fire pits!
Those hoping to get out on the water will enjoy a paddle along the shore. The lake is also one of the few in the Canadian Rockies that allow for private motor boats, granted it’s rarely busy.
Stay At Mount Engadine Lodge
There’s no better place to stay in Kananaskis than Mount Engadine Lodge! This incredible lodge is located in a remote section of the park and offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins, yurts, and traditional rooms.
Mount Engadine Lodge operates year-round, providing a home away from home deep in the mountains. It’s the closest experience to glamping in the area and is conveniently situated next to the trailhead for Smutwood Peak and Tent Ridge. Additionally, they serve daily afternoon tea on their outdoor deck, which is a delightful treat!
Walk Across the Blackshale Suspension Bridge
A bit of a hidden gem tucked away on the High Rockies trail is the Blackshale Suspension Bridge. It took us over a year of living in the Rockies to even know it existed. The suspension bridge is a nice short hike to a short suspension bridge over the Blackshale Creek.
The views from the bridge aren’t noteworthy when compare to many other parts of the provincial park system. However, the bridge itself is still a worthwhile attraction and it’s very short hike so wonderful with little kids. It’s a nice free bridge alternative to the Golden Skybidge in British Columbia.
Hike Up to Rawson Lake
Rawson Lake is a great alpine lake that’s a moderate hike starting from Kananaskis Lakes. It’s a nice moderate hike as it has something to offer along the entire trail. We love that the trail skirts Upper Kananaskis Lake for its beginning, passing by waterfalls and streams along the way.
From the lake the trail gains a modest amount elevation to the lake and its dramatic cirque. It’s a great spot to fish, relax, and explore. We suggest packing some picnic supplies to enjoy the scenery under the mountains.
It’s frequented by wildlife such as marmots and pikas which you’ll often hear whistling in the distance. As it’s popular for wildlife be sure to check for closures, as a female grizzly bear often dens with her cubs along the slopes above the lake.
Continue to Sarrail Ridge
For those looking for a more challenging day, consider the very steep trail to Sarrail Ridge from Rawson Lake. It has some surreal views over the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes. Make sure you have good shoes on this hike and poles to make for a more pleasant descent on this one.
Find the Mist Mountain Hot Springs
Somewhere deep in Kananaskis are the Mist Mountain hot springs, considered some of the best hot springs in Alberta. You may have seen them on social media as they’ve become more popular over the years.
I don’t like calling them hot springs, as they are more “warm to cold.” Regardless it’s quite literally a natural warm tub in the middle of the mountains. I don’t think you’ll ever find springs like this that are more scenic.
Get there at sunrise in the offseason to avoid crowds, or you will likely be waiting in a line to get in the springs meant for 3-4 people max. Keep in mind there is nowhere to change at the hot springs.
Catch Sunrise Over Barrier Lake
Hiking up the Prairie View Trail to the lookout point over Barrier Lake was one of the most visually rewarding hikes relative to the effort I’ve done in the Canadian Rockies. It’s a smooth well-maintained trail the entire way, with stunning views over Barrier Lake.
At just under an hour up, it can quickly be done at sunrise or sunset as well. If you choose to do a sunset or sunrise hike you can rest assured knowing there is no scrambling involved or scary cliffs to fall off of on the trail until the viewpoint.
We rate the Barrier Lake Trail as a great winter hike in Kananaskis as it’s not in avalanche terrain. With a pair of microspikes and poles you’ll have an enjoyable time here between November and April.
Drive the Smith Dorrien Highway
If you’re in the mood for a leisurely road trip and want to enjoy the mountains from your car, you should definitely drive the Smith Dorrien Highway. This gravel road journey starts in Canmore and concludes at Kananaskis Lakes, or you can do it in reverse.
Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful sights like Whiteman’s Pond, Goat Pond, Spray Lakes, and stunning mountain vistas. You might also spot some mountain goats or bighorn sheep! The wetlands around Mount Engadine Lodge are a prime location for spotting moose.
Visitors can connect the Smith Dorrien Highway to Highway 40 to for a full loop. We recommend setting aside at least 2 to 3 hours to complete the drive at a relaxed pace. We particularly enjoy driving during the early morning or evening hours for better wildlife viewing.
Please remember to adhere to the speed limit, as there is a lot of wildlife on this road, and speeding can lead to dangerous collisions with animals. Also for that matter it’s a pretty rough dirt road so it’s best done with an SUV or truck.
Hike to Troll Falls
Troll Falls is a great trail year-round, with something to offer throughout the seasons. It’s most popular in the summer when the roaring waterfall cascades down into the narrow canyon. Few trails are as popular as Troll Falls, and if you plan to check off the hike, we suggest being strategic with your timing and dates. Avoid busy summer weekend days.
It’s a short hike, and we recommend continuing to Marmot Falls and Upper Troll Falls if you don’t mind getting a few extra kilometers under your belt. Seeing all three falls is well worth the effort!
Winter is a great time to visit as it’s a quieter experience, and the frozen waterfall, with its towering icicles, is a sight to behold. If you are planning a trip in the winter, hiking poles, and microspikes are helpful.
See The Larches on the Pocaterra Ridge Trail
Pocaterra Ridge is one of the more popular larch hikes in Kananaskis. Thanks to its thousands of larches in the valley, when the needles start to turn yellow, this is one of the first places you should head.
It’s a beautiful hike that doesn’t have crazy elevation gain or length and is very attainable as far as hikes in the Canadian Rockies go. The popularity of the hike means it’s best to avoid weekends, especially during larch season. Quieter hikes nearby with larch trees are Arethusa Cirque and Tryst Lake.
Hike Wasootch Ridge
Wasootch Ridge is a great ridge hike that’s often snow-free early in the hiking season. It’s easy to navigate as it gains quick elevation and travels along a ridge with spectacular views. The roadway below slowly evaporates from view on the ridge before a challenging scramble to the peak.
We suggest most hikers skip the scramble to the summit, as it’s very exposed. However, the 5km before the ridge has no exposure and exceptional views. The result is a dog/kid-friendly hike that allows one to explore the alpine for an extended period. It is also the first hike we ever completed in the Canadian Rockies!
Hike Porcupine Ridge
Across the valley from Wasootch Ridge is Porcupine Ridge. This is a very similar hike to Wasootch Ridge. It starts off steep initially, and as you get on the ridge, you walk the ridge most of the way until the summit, with stunning views the entire time.
The main difference here is the beginning. Instead of starting straight off like Wasootch, you must navigate your way along Porcupine Creek, crossing a few times before you begin to ascend towards the ridge. After about 1km along the creek bed, you’ll see a trail in the treeline.
The ascent is pretty easy to the ridge. Once to the ridge, you can stop and enjoy the views or continue to the summit!
If you want to enjoy a hike in Kananaskis with the experience and safety of a guide, we recommended booking a guided hike for any of these hikes mentioned here!
Summit Little Lougheed
Mount Little Lougheed is one of the easiest summits in Kananaskis. It offers a fantastic view over the Spray Lakes and is much less popular than nearby Tent Ridge. Just because it’s one of the easiest summits doesn’t make it easy. You’ll still climb over 700 meters in under 4km, so in other words, it’s very steep.
Once at the top, you’ll have unparalleled views of Mount Lougheed and Mount Sparrowhawk. I recommend bringing a pole for this one. You’ll thank me on the way down!
Have a Picnic at Mount Lorette Ponds
Mount Lorette Ponds is a popular day-use area in Kananaskis. Head here to walk around the gentle ponds. It’s a nice, easy stroll for everyone in the family. There are plenty of picnic tables around the ponds for those who want to enjoy lunch in this serene place (remember to Leave No Trace). If you’re feeling extra brave, you can even go for a dip in the chilly water.
Kananaskis in Winter
Ice Skate on Spray Lakes
One of the best things to do in Kananaskis in the winter is head to Spray Lakes when the lake freezes over. Spray Lakes is right next to Goat Pond and often freezes over enough to ice skate sometime in November or December – however it is all weather dependent.
This massive lake in Kananaskis cannot be missed if you’re driving down the Smith Dorrien Trail/Spray Lakes Road. The key to finding great frozen lakes to skate on is timing. Wild skating on these lakes is best when the lakes first freeze, but a significant snowfall hasn’t fallen enough yet to cover the ice.
Ski at Nakiska
Another one of the best things to do in Kananaskis in the winter is ski or snowboard. Nakiska Ski Resort has family-friendly terrain perfect for beginner skiers and children. The ski resort was built for the 1988 Olympic Games and has operated ever since. It’s a decent mountain for long groomed runs and excellent mountain views.
It’s an excellent alternative for beginner and intermediate skiers compared to Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise Ski Resort. The only comparable resort is Mount Norquay, but we prefer Nakiska. We love the resort for its very quiet and relaxed midweek vibes. However, weekends are another story, as Calgary’s families flock to the resort.
Shoeshoe Around Burstall Pass
Burstall Pass is a popular summer hiking trail and a snowshoeing route in Kananaskis Country. It is conveniently located off the Smith Dorrien Trail and attracts many enthusiastic hikers.
The hike takes you past several marshy lakes and streams before leading to a steep ascent to an alpine meadow. It culminates at a high mountain pass where you can enjoy stunning views of glaciated mountains.
If you plan to snowshoe in the winter, you need proper avalanche training, equipment, and knowledge. If you’re unsure how to assess winter risks, you can hire a guide.
Go Dog Sledding
Bundling up in a sled as a team of dogs rushes through the woods is a sensational winter experience. Howling Dog Tours is based out of Canmore, with an experienced and small family operation that’s been in operation since 1995.
Although they are based in Canmore, they’ll take all future mushers deep into Kananaskis for a fun-filled day with the dogs! With Howling Dog, everyone has a personal guide per sled, there are no weight restrictions, and there are no strangers on the sled!
Where to Stay in Kananaskis
Camping – There are plenty of front and back-country camping sites in Kananaskis. A few of our favorites are Spray Lakes West and Mount Kidd. We break down all the best camping spots in Kananaskis here.
Glamping – Camp in luxury at Mount Engadine! Mount Engadine is one of our favorite cabins in Kananaskis. They offer excellent all-inclusive packages in their rooms, yurt, and glamping tents.
Kananaskis Hotels – There aren’t a plethora of accommodation options in Kananaskis Country, and only a limited number of hotels. Our favorite in the park is Kananaskis Mountain Lodge at the base of Nakiska.
Want More Kananaskis Hikes?
For a bit more challenge, check out our full list of hikes in Kananaskis! A few of our favorites are Mount Allan, Smutwood Peak, and Tent Ridge!
About Kananaskis
The majestic peaks of Kananaskis took shape around 200 million years ago due to tectonic plate movements, with the predominant limestone rock forming from layers of fossilized sea life. Carved by glaciers during the last ice age, the soft limestone transformed into the mountains you see today.
Human habitation in the area dates back to 4500 BC, with the Stoney and Blackfoot First Nations residing there until the early 1800s. Captain John Palliser, who was a notable Canadian Rockies explorer, named the area Kananaskis, derived from the name of a warrior, “Kin-e-a-kis,” who survived an axe blow in an apparent fight for love.
In 1930, the provincial government gained control of land once under federal jurisdiction, once part of Rocky Mountain National Park (now Banff National Park). In the ’50s and ’60s, provincial parks were established, and a Calgary-based environmentalist advocated for a protected area, leading Premier Peter Lougheed to establish Kananaskis Country in the ’60s, preserving the landscape and delicate ecosystem.
Today, Kananaskis Country spans 4,000 square kilometers, comprising designated wildland parks, provincial parks, recreation parks, ecological reserves, and cultural zones.
New in 2025! We just released our local guide to the Canadian Rockies! Discover 300+ hidden gems, hikes, and cabins not found in your typical guidebook. We’re offering a 10% off intro offer using code BLOG10 at checkout!
Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies
- We now have an interactive map! With over 300 stops around the Canadian Rockies, our personal map is your one stop shop to an epic trip here.
- Recommended Experiences: There are many things to do in the Rockies, but our top recommendation is the Banff Gondola – a must do experience! Want to get up close and personal with a glacier? We cannot recommend this Icewalks tour enough!
- Planning your visit to Moraine Lake and don’t want to deal with the Parks shuttles? We recommend using Moraine Lake Bus Company or booking this Radventures tour!
- Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. For a campervan trip, you can check prices and compare on Outdoorsy.
- We can help you plan your 2025 trip to Western Canada! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by planning we can assist! We’ll PERSONALLY go over your itinerary, hop on a 1 on 1 phone call, or create a bespoke itinerary just for you! See our services here.
