Kananaskis Country is a network of provincial parks on the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, with its northern edge only about half an hour west of Calgary. It is often called K-Country and is a less crowded, cheaper alternative to Banff National Park.
AT A GLANCE
Best time
Late June and July bring wildflowers, while winter suits skiing and snowshoeing.
How long
Allow two to three days, or a long day trip from Calgary or Canmore.
Getting there
Drive west from Calgary on Highway 1, then turn south onto Highway 40.
Why visit Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis is not a single park but a patchwork of provincial parks, wildland areas and recreation sites run by Alberta rather than the federal government. That means different rules and fees from Banff, and generally quieter trails and viewpoints.
The scenery is classic Rocky Mountain terrain, from snowcapped ridgelines to alpine meadows and blue lakes.
The area has long human history too. Indigenous peoples have lived and travelled here for at least eight thousand years, and the Nakoda, Siksika, Blood and Kootenai peoples all have ties to the region.
Because the parks are so varied, you can fit the trip to your mood, whether that means a slow scenic drive, a short wildflower stroll, a day on skis, a paddle on a mountain lake or a quiet evening by a campfire.
Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and Highway 40
Peter Lougheed Visitor Information Centre
Start here on Kananaskis Lakes Trail for maps, ranger advice and information on trail and wildlife conditions. The area around the centre is known for grizzly bear sightings, so ask staff what is current.
Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes
These two mountain lakes are the park's scenic heart. North Interlakes Day Use, between the lakes, has wide views and works as a starting point for hikes.
Rock Glacier Trail
A short walk takes you to a rock-strewn slope at the side of the road, where there is a very good chance of spotting pikas.
Highwood Pass
At 2,206 metres, Highwood Pass is the highest paved pass in Canada. A short paved and boardwalk path at Highwood Meadows Day Use Area lets you see alpine flowers, ground squirrels and mountain scenery.
Smith-Dorrien Trail
This wide gravel road runs past Spray Lakes and drops steeply toward Canmore, and it is considered a drive not to be missed. Moose are often seen near Mount Engadine Lodge and the Shark Road corner.
Foothills, falls and adventures
Bow Valley Provincial Park
This park near the northern edge has short, easy walks reached from parking spots around the campground. In June there are many chances to see wetland and meadow plants, including orchids.
Elbow Falls
Elbow Falls is a classic short stop on the Elbow River west of Bragg Creek. The viewing area is a quick walk from the road, so it suits families and travellers short on time.
Bighorn Lookout at Sheep River
A short walk from the car park leads to a viewpoint above a river ravine in Sheep River Provincial Park. Bighorn sheep are often seen along the Sheep River road.
Nakiska and the Canmore Nordic Centre
Nakiska hosted the alpine skiing events at the 1988 Calgary Olympic Winter Games, and the Canmore Nordic Centre staged the cross-country events.
Trail riding and rafting
Boundary Ranch offers trail riding in the foothills, and rafting trips on the Kananaskis River are organised by companies based in Canmore. Both are best booked ahead in summer.
Planning a trip to Kananaskis Country?Compare hotels, flights and vacation rentals for Kananaskis Country on Expedia.Book now
Food and local flavors
Kananaskis has few restaurants, so plan your meals. Kananaskis Village has six restaurants, bistros and bars in one complex, and Mount Engadine Lodge serves evening meals in its open seasons.
Try a slice of saskatoon berry pie, an iconic treat across the Canadian prairies and foothills, made with a native berry long eaten by Indigenous peoples. Calgary is widely credited as the birthplace of ginger beef, a sweet, crisp dish of fried beef strips in a ginger and chili sauce.
Popular dishes to try in Kananaskis Country
Where to stay
Kananaskis Village is the main hub for hotels and activity, with restaurants, trails and easy access to the lakes and Nakiska. It suits families and travellers who want comfort inside the park without long drives.
Canmore is the nearest community of any size, about 45 minutes away, and offers the widest choice of lodging, restaurants and shops. It suits visitors who also plan to see Banff.
Where to stay in Kananaskis Country
Best time to visit
Late June and early July bring wildflowers and songbirds, with long days and green meadows. Summer is the busiest season for hiking, biking, rafting and golf.
Autumn is quieter and cooler, with good wildlife viewing. Winter brings downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing, though parts of Highway 40 close seasonally. Evenings are cold even in summer, so pack layers.
Getting there and getting around
Calgary International Airport is the nearest major airport. From Calgary, drive west on Highway 1 and turn south onto Highway 40 at the Kananaskis sign. You can also enter from Canmore along Spray Lakes Road and the Smith-Dorrien Trail.
You need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to park in day-use lots in the provincial parks, and you can buy it online or at visitor centres. Fishing and hunting need ordinary Alberta permits.
A suggested itinerary
First day
Drive Highway 40 from the Trans-Canada, stopping at Bow Valley Provincial Park and the Peter Lougheed Visitor Information Centre.
Second day
Cross Highwood Pass, stop at the Rock Glacier Trail and Highwood Meadows, then drive the Smith-Dorrien Trail toward Canmore.
Third day
Visit Elbow Falls and Bighorn Lookout in the foothills, or book a rafting trip or trail ride.
Practical tips
- Buy a Kananaskis Conservation Pass before you park in day-use lots.
- Carry bear spray, make noise on trails and keep a safe distance from all wildlife.
- Check road and trail conditions before you drive Highway 40 or the Smith-Dorrien Trail.
- Pack layers, water and snacks, as mountain weather changes quickly and services are limited.
- Book campgrounds and lodges well ahead for summer weekends.
