Hikes in Kananaskis Country

Foran Grade and Windy Point Ridge are two smallish peaks in the front ranges providing great views of the surrounding ranges to the west and the prairie to the east. The views are gorgeous, especially considering the limited elevation you gain at just over 305 m.

This mid-length moderate hike has us summit Mt. Ware. As our final elevation takes us above all the surrounding foothills we are afforded great views of the surrounding area, including the impressive Bluerock Mountain to the west.

While this is not the most scenic of hikes until you reach the summit, it can be done year-round (no avalanche risk) and is one heck of a workout.

This hike is more about the destination than the journey. The first 6.0 km is more of a walk along a forestry road before things get good, with a steep 1.0 km hike before we reach the cave.

The hike to Rummel Lake is a Kananaskis classic, with people returning year after year. The colours in autumn are spectacular, and if you have the energy push the trip a bit farther up to Rummel Pass for very special views.

The Blackshale Suspension Bridge Route is an easy, family-friendly trail with fantastic wildflowers, mountain views, and an impressive suspension bridge to cross. Some people make a longer trip of this by accessing it from Black Prince Trail, but this short loop is for those who just want to enjoy the bridge.

Little Elbow Trail connects with Big Elbow Trail to form a loop that connects three backcountry campgrounds. It’s a beautiful hike with views of Mount Romulus, Mount Glasgow, and more. You can go as far as you like on this trail, and it’s largely family-friendly.

The Fullerton Loop offers superb views of Moose Mountain and the foothills surrounding the area. This trail has a long season and is a great choice for early and late season hiking. There are many connecting trails nearby if you are looking for something a bit longer.

The Little Lawson Peak route (also known as South Lawson) is a straightforward trail that takes users to an incredible viewpoint. The trail travels straight up the ridge from the highway, making it very easy to follow. It is a great option in the early and late season as it isn’t dangerous and it rarely has snow along the ridge during hiking season.

Prairie View is a must-do in the Barrier Lake and Highway 40 area. It is a moderate trail that is easy to follow and offers incredible views. The prairie view is like no other and is the perfect place to get your photos taken. The trail is made up of easy switchbacks that lead to an incredibly rewarding summit. There are options to continue on with a scramble to the summit of Yates Mountain.

The trail to Tryst Lake is used year-round by many different types of adventurers. The summer trail is easy to follow and very straightforward. The elevation comes gradually and the lake is a great objective for beginner-intermediate hikers.

Porcupine Ridge is a challenging hike up a stunning ridge in the centre of Kananaskis. The views are astounding, and if you spend enough time in the area, you will be able to recognize many of the surrounding peaks and their trails. The day use area at the trailhead is a great spot to wind down after a long trek up Porcupine Ridge.

The trail to Junction Falls via Junction Creek is a great intermediate hike that crosses some water and otherwise is straightforward and easy to follow. It passes through an old logging camp that is interesting to hike through. You will cross a small stream later on near an old log cabin. This trail is easy to follow and holds a lot of history in the area.

Big Elbow Trail is a scenic, easy hike that leads to a backcountry campground. The trail follows an access road with very gradual elevation change, making it a family-friendly outing that’s shoulder season-friendly. The views of Threepoint Mountain and Banded Peak are fantastic.

The Sheep River Falls trail is a short and easy trail that leads hikers to a beautiful waterfall along the Sheep River. Consider spending some time having a picnic or splashing in the water when visiting this area. You likely won’t get your heart rate up, but it is the perfect spot to enjoy some nature.

The Elbow Falls Loop is a popular trail for good reason. Only a short drive from the city, this beautiful trail shows off the wonders of the Elbow River Valley in a short distance. Bring the whole family, and plan a good half-day of relaxing and outdoor activity to make the most out of this area.

The Sulphur Springs trail in the Elbow River area is part of an extremely well-maintained multi-sport trail system. The trail is forested with many clearings that provide great views. There are lots of junctions along this route, so using a GPS is recommended. Join the Riverview Trail to create a full loop.

The Alder Trail is a short lollipop loop in Bragg Creek Provincial Park. It is an educational interpretive trail that is host to signage that discusses local flora and fauna. The trail is easy to navigate and perfect for all abilities. Please note, you must cross a busy road to access the trail.

The Iron Springs trail connects Highway 66 with Township Road 232. It is a great multi-use trail for intermediate hikers. The straightforward trail travels through the forest and features moderate rolling elevation.

The Diamond T Loop is an excellent beginner-intermediate trail in Kananaskis. It is part of a broader trail system and has many options to extend your trip. The trail is mostly forested but has plenty of clearings with great views and one prominent viewpoint that makes the whole trail worth hiking for.