Kananaskis Country: An adventure is waiting for you!
Little Lougheed
Just a short drive south east of Canmore and Banff lies Kananaskis Country, a spectacular stretch of the Canadian Rockies that often flies under the radar compared to its famous neighbours. Yet for hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a destination that consistently delivers. Considered the front ranges of the Rockies they hold dramatic landscapes, vibrant alpine lakes, towering peaks, and trails that range from easy family strolls to moderately technical treks.
What makes Kananaskis so special is the balance between accessibility and serenity. You can enjoy breathtaking scenery without navigating the crowds that dominate Banff and Lake Louise. Wildlife sightings are very common here, elk grazing in the meadows, mountain sheep on ridges, and occasional bears roaming through the valleys, adding an element of awe and excitement to each hike.
Kananaskis Country is uniquely managed as a mix of provincial parks and recreation areas, allowing for a wide range of year round activities, from hiking, biking, and golfing in the summer to skiing, snowshoeing and cross-coutry skiing in the winter. The region offers something in every season, opportunities for both no motorized and motorized recreations, Kananaskis stands out as one of our favorite and most versatile outdoor destinations.
Kananaskis boasts a range of hidden treasures for every type of adventurer. From the reflective waters of the Kananaskis Lakes to the rugged beauty and views of Prairie Mountain, each area has its own character and charm. Bigger hikes like Ha Ling Peak provide panoramic views from up high, while alpine lakes such as Rawson Lake and Grassi Lakes offer calm, photogenic settings summer and winter. For those chasing summer peaks, the summits of Mount Indefatigable or Mount Allen & Centennial Ridge reveal why Kananaskis is a top choice for anyone seeking both beauty and challenge.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape into nature, a day with the family or a moderately technical hike, Kananaskis Country delivers all of this and more. Its combination of accessibility, natural diversity, and fewer crowds makes it a must visit destination for anyone exploring the Canadian Rockies. Be sure to include an extra day in your itinerary to visit the Kananaskis area.
Mount Baldy
Other Kananaskis Highlights:
RidgeWalks:
Wasootch Ridge
Pocaterra Ridge
Tent Ridge
Lakes:
Chester lake
Rawson Lake & Sarrail Ridge
PickleJar Lakes
Grassi Lakes
Summits & Passes:
Mount Yamnuska
West Wind Pass
Ha Ling & Miners Peak
