What to Do in Kananaskis: Best Hikes, Scenic Drives, and Hidden Gems

Discover what to do in Kananaskis, Alberta, including peaceful Kananaskis hikes, scenic drives, and hidden gems far from the crowds.

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I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with Kananaskis as quickly as I did.

It was my first stop on a 6-day Alberta road trip and I had imagined it more as a quiet place to settle in and shake off the travel fatigue before hitting the big names like Jasper and Banff. But by the end of my stay, I found myself thinking: this might actually be the part I’ll miss the most.

Kananaskis felt different from the rest of the Rockies. It’s calm in the best way, filled with winding gravel roads, turquoise lakes, and hikes that make you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret. There were moments when I looked around and saw no one else on the trail. Just mountains, trees, and stillness.

This guide covers the best things to do in Kananaskis, Alberta, from quiet forest trails to scenic drives that rival anything you’ll see in a postcard. If you’re looking for peaceful viewpoints, lesser-known hikes, and places that feel untouched, this is where to start.

Don’t forget to check out all of my Alberta blog posts to make the most of your roadtrip!

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What to do in Kananaskis

How to Get to Kananaskis

One of the best parts about visiting Kananaskis is how close it is to major hubs, yet it still feels completely off the beaten path.

From Calgary:
Kananaskis is about a 1.5-hour drive west of Calgary. Just follow the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) toward Canmore, then take Highway 40 south into Kananaskis Country. It’s a smooth, scenic drive, and there are plenty of places to stop for gas or snacks along the way. If you’re coming straight from the airport, this is one of the easiest national park-style adventures you can start without much detour.

From Banff:
If you’re coming from Banff, the drive takes just over an hour. You’ll head east on the Trans-Canada Highway, then turn south onto Highway 40. The route is beautiful, especially once you pass Barrier Lake and start weaving your way into the mountains. This makes Kananaskis a great day trip or an ideal first or last stop on a Banff and Jasper itinerary.

Travel Tip // There’s very little cell service once you’re in the area, so be sure to download offline maps or mark key stops ahead of time. You’ll also need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to park at most trailheads, more on that below.

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Things to Know About Kananaskis

Kananaskis might not be as instantly recognizable as Banff or Jasper, but that’s part of the charm. It’s a vast, wild region that feels like a well-kept secret and once you’ve been, you’ll wonder how more people don’t talk about it.

Where exactly is Kananaskis?
Kananaskis Country is a group of parks and public lands located just west of Calgary, in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. It covers more than 4,000 square kilometres — nearly twice the size of Banff National Park — and includes several provincial parks, recreation areas, and wilderness zones. You’ll find everything from high alpine hikes to peaceful lakeside picnics, often with far fewer people around.

A bit of history
The area is named after the Kananaskis River, which explorer John Palliser named in the 1850s. The name itself is said to be a variation of the Cree word Kin-e-a-kis, referring to someone who had recovered from an axe wound, though the exact origin story has a few versions. For thousands of years before that, these lands were part of the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples who hunted, fished, and traveled through this landscape.

What makes it special?
Kananaskis is wild in all the best ways. While Banff and Jasper have towns, hotels, and restaurants right inside the parks, Kananaskis feels more remote. You won’t find big resorts here, just a handful of campgrounds, backcountry lodges, and cabins tucked into the trees. The roads are quieter, the trails feel more personal, and it’s not uncommon to spot wildlife like moose, bighorn sheep, or even bears.

A conservation-first approach
Kananaskis has always balanced recreation with conservation. In 2021, Alberta introduced the Kananaskis Conservation Pass, a small fee that goes directly toward trail maintenance, visitor safety, and protecting the natural environment. It’s required for all vehicles parking in the area, and you can purchase it online before your trip.

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Best Hikes in Kananaskis

If you’re planning your first visit, here’s the good news: you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the trails in Kananaskis. The area offers a mix of short, scenic walks and moderate day hikes, all with views that look like they belong on a postcard.

Here are some of the best Kananaskis hikes I explored (or bookmarked for next time):

Grassi Lakes Trail

Distance: 4.3 km return
Elevation gain: ~125 m
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Trailhead: Just outside Canmore

This is easily one of the most photogenic hikes in the area, and a perfect one to start with. The trail leads you to two brilliantly blue-green lakes nestled at the base of limestone cliffs. You’ll have two route options: one that’s wide and gradual, and one that’s steeper and has better views of the valley (you’ll even get to see a waterfalls). If you’re comfortable with uneven footing, the harder – the interpretive trail – route is worth it.

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Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge

Distance: 1.5 km return
Elevation gain: Minimal
Time: 30–45 minutes
Trailhead: Along Smith-Dorrien Trail (exact location can be tricky to find: use this Alltrails map as reference)

More of a destination than a full hike, this suspension bridge tucked in the trees is one of those hidden gems that makes Kananaskis feel special. The walk to the bridge is short and gentle, and the reward is a picture-perfect bridge with mountain views and almost no crowds. Unfortunately I did not have time to get to it during my visit, but I’m a bit sad about it now.

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Ptarmigan Cirque

Distance: 4.5 km loop
Elevation gain: ~275 m
Time: 2–3 hours
Trailhead: Highwood Pass (Highway 40)

This short but steep loop starts right across from the Highwood Pass parking lot (the highest paved pass in Canada). It climbs through subalpine forest and opens into a stunning cirque surrounded by jagged peaks. It’s a great intro to alpine hiking, but snow often lingers here until late June.

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Rawson Lake & Sarrail Ridge

Distance: 11 km return (to the ridge)
Elevation gain: ~725 m
Time: 4–5 hours
Trailhead: Upper Kananaskis Lake Day Use Area

Rawson Lake on its own is already a beautiful hike : forested switchbacks leading to a pristine lake tucked beneath towering cliffs. But if you’re up for a more intense climb, continue to Sarrail Ridge for one of the best panoramic views in the region. The trail gets steep and exposed, so it’s best done in dry conditions with sturdy shoes.

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Ribbon Falls

Distance: 16.5 km return to Ribbon Falls
Elevation gain: ~300 m (to the falls), more to the lake
Time: 5–7 hours
Trailhead: Ribbon Creek Day Use Area

This is a long, scenic out-and-back trail that follows Ribbon Creek through a beautiful forested valley. If you’re aiming for Ribbon Falls, it’s a relatively steady hike with a waterfall at the end. More experienced hikers can continue to Ribbon Lake, but it requires scrambling and a chain-assisted section , not recommended in early season or wet conditions.

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Troll Falls

Distance: 3.4 km return
Elevation gain: ~60 m
Time: Under 1 hour
Trailhead: Near Kananaskis Village

Troll Falls is a short and sweet waterfall hike that’s perfect for families, casual walkers, or anyone easing into higher elevations. The trail winds through forest and ends at a small but beautiful waterfall. If the conditions are right, you can continue past the falls for a bit of a longer adventure.

Hiking Tip // I visited in May, which is peak bear season in the Rockies. Many trails are still quiet at that time of year, beautiful, but also a little unnerving if you’re hiking alone. Because I was solo, I chose easier and more popular trails, and skipped anything remote or overgrown. If you don’t already have bear spray, you can rent it at Kananaskis Outfitters for around $15 a day. It’s lightweight, fits in a daypack, and gives you peace of mind on the trail. And yes, it’s worth it, even for shorter hikes. Make sure to check trail reports before heading out, make noise as you hike, and always give wildlife lots of space if you do spot any.

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Non-Hiking Things to Do in Kananaskis

Kananaskis is best known for its incredible hiking trails, but that’s far from the only way to enjoy the region. If you’re looking for a slower pace or just want a break from the boots, here are a few relaxing and adventure-filled alternatives to add to your itinerary.

Kananaskis Nordic Spa
Tucked beside the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, this Nordic-style spa is one of the most peaceful places to unwind in the Rockies. Their hydrotherapy circuit includes hot and cold pools, saunas, steam rooms, and quiet zones, all surrounded by mountain views. It’s a great way to spend a few hours recharging, especially after a day outdoors. Reservations recommended.

Horseback Riding at Boundary Ranch
If you’d rather explore the backcountry by saddle, Boundary Ranch offers guided horseback rides through the foothills and forested valleys of Kananaskis. Rides range from short scenic loops to half-day adventures, and no previous experience is needed.

Golfing at Kananaskis Country Golf Course
Surrounded by mountain peaks and pine forests, this 36-hole course is considered one of the most scenic golf spots in Canada. Even if you’re not an avid golfer, the setting alone makes it worth a visit, especially in early morning or golden hour.

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Scenic Drives and Viewpoints in Kananaskis

Even if you never step onto a trail, driving through Kananaskis feels like an adventure in itself. This is one of those rare regions where you can hop in the car, put on a playlist, and feel like you’re part of the landscape, mountains in every direction, forests opening up to turquoise lakes, and the kind of quiet that makes you slow down without realizing it.

Here are a few scenic drives and lookouts that are well worth adding to your route:

Smith-Dorrien Trail (Highway 742)

This gravel road connects Kananaskis to Canmore and is one of the most underrated drives in Alberta. It’s rough in spots but completely doable in a standard vehicle in good weather. Along the way, you’ll pass Spray Lakes Reservoir, remote trailheads, and stunning alpine valleys that feel far from anywhere.

If you’re staying at SkyRidge Glamping or nearby, this drive is right at your doorstep.

Travel Tip // Bring snacks, water, and a downloaded map, you won’t have cell service, and there are no gas stations or services along the way.

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Highway 40 (Kananaskis Trail)

This is the main artery through Kananaskis, and it’s gorgeous in every direction. South of Kananaskis Village, the road winds through valleys, skirts past lakes, and climbs toward Highwood Pass, the highest paved pass in Canada. It opens seasonally starting June 15 and makes for an incredible drive if you’re visiting later in the summer.

Stop at Barrier Lake, Mount Lorette Ponds, Wedge Pond, or one of the scenic pullouts along the way for photos and short walks.

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Where to Stay in Kananaskis

If you’re looking for somewhere that feels remote but still has all the comforts of a thoughtfully designed stay, Skyridge Glamping is one of the best places to base yourself in Kananaskis. I stayed here during the first two nights of my Alberta road trip, and it immediately set the tone for everything I love in a nature-based escape: quiet surroundings, incredible views, and a stay that feels just a little indulgent without being over the top.

Skyridge is an adults-only glamping retreat with a focus on sustainable design and modern comfort. Each SkyBox cabin is its own cozy hideaway, complete with a king-sized bed, heated floors, a private bathroom, and a full kitchen. I had floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out onto the mountains, waking up with that view felt like something out of a dream.

There’s a private patio where I did morning yoga, a fireplace for cozy evenings, and just enough distance from the rest of the world that you can fully unplug. And while it feels remote, the location is super practical. It’s just off Highway 40, minutes from trailheads, scenic drives, and Kananaskis Village.

Read More // Check out my full blog post on my stay at Skyridge Resort.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Kananaskis

Kananaskis may feel wild and remote, but a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few tips to make your trip smoother:

You’ll need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass
All vehicles parked in Kananaskis Country or in the Bow Valley corridor must display a valid Kananaskis Conservation Pass. You can buy a daily or annual pass online through the Alberta Parks website, and it’s quick and easy to display it digitally or print it ahead of time.

Cell service is limited
Many parts of Kananaskis — especially along the Smith-Dorrien Trail — have little to no reception. Download offline maps ahead of time (Google Maps or AllTrails), and be prepared to rely on trail signage or your own planning once you’re out there.

Check trail conditions and closures
Especially in spring and early summer, some trails may be closed due to snow, flooding, or bear activity. The Alberta Parks website has up-to-date trail reports, and most local outfitters will be in the loop if you ask before heading out.

Pack layers and be ready for changing weather
Even on warm days, temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains — especially in the early morning or evening. I hiked in May and was glad I packed a warm layer, rain jacket, and gloves. If you’re hiking or heading out for the day, dress in layers and bring more than you think you’ll need.

Stock up on supplies in Canmore
If you’re staying somewhere like Skyridge Glamping or plan to spend a full day exploring without looping back to a major road, it’s smart to bring everything with you. Canmore is your last reliable stop for groceries, gas, and coffee.

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Final Thoughts : What to do in Kananaskis

Kananaskis was the first stop on my Alberta road trip, and honestly, it surprised me in the best way. I went in thinking it would be a quiet place to ease into the mountains — and it was — but it also ended up being one of the most peaceful and memorable parts of the entire trip. The slower pace, the scenic drives, the early morning light hitting the trees outside my cabin, it all felt like Alberta at its most grounded and wild. While it doesn’t get as much attention as Banff or Jasper, I think that’s part of what makes it so special.

If you’re planning a trip to the Rockies and want a few days away from the crowds, Kananaskis is the perfect place to start. You’ll find great hikes, cozy stays, and quiet roads that make you want to pull over every ten minutes just to take it all in.

Still planning your route? Head to my 6-Day Alberta Road Trip Itinerary to see how Kananaskis fits into the bigger picture.

Don’t forget to check out my other Alberta blog posts to make the most of your road trip in the Rockies!

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