I will only put this, on our two -week road trip through Canada, the region that completely stole my heart was Kananaskis County. Hidden in the shadow of his most famous neighbor, Banff, is a wild, raw and peaceful pocket of the rocky mountains that feels like the best kept secret in Canada. If I yearn for intact nature, the amazing alpine landscape and the paths that are not full of tourists, this is where you will find it, with my guide to the best walks in Cananaskis County.
Practical aspects:
Get there:
There are direct flights from the United Kingdom to Calary, which is a short distance from the Cananaskis mountains. You can also get a flight to Vancouver and then connect to Calgary.
When to visit:
Renting a car that is four -wheel drive and high authorization, must reach almost all paths. The roads are usually quite good in Canada, but once you enter the desert, they can be a bit more hard. It is better to be sure than cure!
How long to stay:
I would say that you need a minimum of three full days in the region, to be able to experience a wide variety of walks, but the more you can stay, the better!
Prices:
I hate being the bearer of bad news, but Canada is not cheap. The prices we experience reflected those of the United Kingdom when it comes to meals, hotels, car rental, etc. Therefore, be sure to agree.
Travel tips:
Be sure to buy a Parks Canada’s discovery pass.
This will allow you to access more than 80 Canadian destinations in 12 months, it also means that you can avoid having to join the queues when you enter the national parks.
Packaging for all climates, no matter the season.
They are the mountains after all! Right in summer peak, the weather can change the sunlight and blue to cold, cloud and rainy skies in minutes. Take layers, waterproof and proper footwear. If you need guidance on which team to take, see my hiking kit guide here.
Bear safety is a very important factor when you are exploring the Canadian desert.
It is essential to carry bear spray, make noise and remain vigilant. Check out the safety patterns of the Canadian bear here. One thing to keep in mind is that bears spray cannot be taken in airplanes, so I get to buy it once it reaches its destination.
The best accommodation in Kananosis County
I recommend staying in Mount Engadine Lodge. We had one of his glamping tents and we loved it. The rooms are lush, the food is delicious and the location is ideal with many paths that begin from their whore. If Mount Engadine is full, then visit Kananaskis Mountain Lodge in the town of Kananaskis.
The best walks in Kananosis County
The best way to see and experience the permanent landscapes of the region is to walk. I have to warn that you thought, most paths on the region are quite challenging, so bring your hiking canes and many snacks!
Mobile wooden peak:
This was my favorite walk of all our Canadian trip! It is an 18 km spicy route with 1000 mo elevation from the valley to the Smutwood Peak summit, through incredible and impressive views. It is a challenging climb and a fight is required near the top, but it is worth all the effort for the endless views with which they reward you. Trust me, it will leave you speechless.
Distance: 18 km
Elevation: 1000 m
Difficulty: Challenge
Path folder: Download the map here
The riding riding of the store:
This walk is only 10 km long, but it has a lot of spicy increases and impressive views. It takes you to the beautiful tent that you are still in the form of a horseshoe, bar in unsuccessful views of the surrounding peaks, lakes and the Aerosol valley. It is to observe that the route requests a simple fight and a head for heights.
Distance: 10.6 km
Elevation: 800m
Difficulty: Moderate challenge
Path folder: Download the map here
The East Rundle end:
A classic path in the region, located on the outskirts of Canmore. I warn you, do not underestimate this route! Despite being short, it is only for those looking for a difficult escalation, since it will amount to almost 900 m in less than 5 km. The land is challenging, loose, steep and scrambled, but the views on the top on the surrounding peaks and the spray valley below are no less epic!
Distance: 5.8 km
Elevation: 900m
Difficulty: Challenge
Path folder: Download the map here
Lake side to the tombstone lakes:
If your legs need to rest, add this simple and rewarding path to your itinerary. Enrolla through a beautiful valley located between imposing peaks, through picturesque and waterfalls, with multiple suitable locations to swim in cold water with views. It is long, but it is gentle and you can return at any time.
Distance: 20 km
Elevation: 600m
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Path folder: Download the map here
Rawson Lake and Sarrail Ridge:
This popular path sacrifices absolutely phenomenal views. First, it goes up to the banks of the picturesque Lake Rawson, which is where most people return. However, if you feel like a challenge, then you can go up the steep and narrow path to Sarrail Ridge, which will reward you with completely amazing views on the rock mountains and the upper kananosis lake. Just make sure you take your hiking posts!
Distance: 11.5 km
Elevation: 900m
Difficulty: Challenge
Path folder: Download the map here
The best wild swimming lakes and places in Kananaskis County
There are a lot of incredible lakes in which you can take a refreshing dip, our personal favorite was Buller Pound, since it is super accessible and the surrounding views are amazing, but you can also try:
- Aerosol lakes
- Tombstone lakes
- Barrier Lake
- Goat pond
- Lake Rawson
- The upper and lower Kanananaskis lakes
If you found this useful article, see my other travel guides:
Safe trips!
Zanna x
