Awesome Alberta: Check out stunning Upper Kananaskis Lake (PHOTOS)
COVID-19 still presents a very real and dangerous threat to public health. While much of Alberta’s outdoors have been reopened to visitors, it is recommended to plan ahead, check local restrictions and current public health measures, and avoid any areas that may be too crowded.
Who’s down for a picturesque picnic?
Check out the stunning Upper Kananaskis Lake; a beautiful man-made lake created for hydroelectric power and irrigation. The lake is almost entirely empty (and covered in snow) until mid-June during spring run-off.
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Dip your toes (or your whole body, if you’re feeling daring) in this very cold but extremely rejuvenating lake for a definite afternoon wake-up call.
If swimming isn’t your thing, take a hike around the entire lake or choose from eight other trails in the area.
For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from Albertaparks.ca and AdventureSmart. Parks Canada visitor guidelines are available here. Always remember to leave no trace, pack out what you pack in, stick to designated trails, and refrain from feeding wildlife — and please note that irresponsibly taken selfies (even if they look great for the ‘gram) can be fatal.
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Where is it?
Upper Kananaskis Lake is located on the southern end of Banff National Park. Both Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes are nestled between Mount Joffre and Mount Burns.
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How do you get there?
Follow 6th Avenue SW and Bow Trail SW to Sarcee Trail SW. From there, you’re going to jump onto Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W and Kananaskis Trail/AB-40 S to Kananaskis Lakes Trail/AB-742 in Kananaskis. Turn right and stay on Kananaskis Lakes Trail/AB-742.
The full one-way trip should take about two hours.
Edmontonians will need to tack on an extra three hours to the trip to get down to Calgary first, and then follow the above instructions.
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What’s there?
The best part about Upper Kananaskis Lake is that there’s something for everyone. For the hikers out there, the Kananaskis Lake area is home to some of the best and most scenic hikes in the province. There are ample trails from light walks to steep hikes that will get your blood pumping. The Rawson Lake hike provides spectacular views of Mount Sarrail overlooking the Kananaskis Lakes.
For those who enjoy the glamping lifestyle, grab your favourite beverage and toast to a wonderful summer ahead with finger sandwiches and watermelon slices! You can book a day full of canoeing and horseback riding when the food runs out.
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