What can a tourist do in Kananaskis?

Kananaskis is an area located west and southwest of Calgary and borders the town of Canmore as well as Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and less crowded, pristine wilderness compared to nearby tourist hotspots like Banff offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks, alpine lakes, dense forests, and wildflower meadows. The area is known for its unspoiled and less commercialized landscapes. Kananaskis is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, canoeing, and whitewater rafting in the summer. In the winter, it becomes a hub for skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing. The area boasts some of the most scenic and varied hiking trails in the Rockies. Trails like Ha Ling Peak, Rawson Lake, and Ptarmigan Cirque are popular for their diverse landscapes and impressive views. Kananaskis is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and deer. It's a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts who want to experience nature in its rawest form. The area is renowned for its cross-country skiing trails, snowshoeing paths, and backcountry skiing opportunities. The nearby Nakiska Ski Resort, which hosted events for the 1988 Winter Olympics, is a favorite for downhill skiing and snowboarding. Kananaskis Country is a series of protected provincial parks and wilderness areas, highlighting the region’s commitment to conservation. It is a haven for those who appreciate protected natural spaces. The Kananaskis River is popular for whitewater rafting and kayaking, attracting adventurers who enjoy thrilling water sports in a stunning mountain setting.

For tourists, there is so much to do. For those who like hiking, there is Ha Ling Peak which is one of the most popular hikes, offering incredible views over Canmore and the Bow Valley. Tent Ridge Horseshoe is a scenic ridge walk that rewards hikers with panoramic views. Ptarmigan Cirque is a short, family-friendly trail that offers alpine meadows and breathtaking mountain vistas. The Kananaskis area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep. The Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts to explore. Kananaskis Village is a charming alpine village offers lodging, dining, and a base for various outdoor activities. It's also home to the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, known for its luxury spa. Barrier Lake and Upper Kananaskis Lake are beautiful spots for canoeing & kayaking. You can rent kayaks or canoes in the area and enjoy the peaceful, clear waters surrounded by towering peaks. The Kananaskis Country Golf Course is famous for its stunning mountain backdrop and well-maintained greens, making it one of the most scenic golf courses in Canada. The area has extensive trails for mountain bikers, including the Canmore Nordic Centre, where trails range from beginner to expert level. Several outfitters in the area offer guided horseback tours through the wilderness, allowing visitors to experience the Rockies from a different perspective. Kananaskis offers excellent fishing spots in lakes like Lower Kananaskis Lake and Wedge Pond, where you can catch trout and other species. For adventure seekers, Kananaskis River provides whitewater rafting trips, perfect for families and beginners looking for an exciting day on the water. In winter, Kananaskis transforms into a winter wonderland with great cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even backcountry skiing in the surrounding areas. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour over the Rockies, offering sweeping views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys below. The area is ideal for outdoor lovers, but it also offers plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy nature without going too far into the wild.

Craig Payne is a University lecturer, runner, cynic, researcher, skeptic, forum admin, woo basher, clinician, rabble-rouser, blogger and a dad.