2025 Kananaskis Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

This hike is not just a workout — it's a wow moment from start to finish. The trail to Sarrail Ridge via Rawson Lake is one of Alberta’s most rewarding hikes, offering a little bit of everything: peaceful forest, a sparkling alpine lake, and a ridge that takes your breath away. The first part of the trail winds gently through the forest from Upper Kananaskis Lake to Rawson Lake, a serene alpine lake nestled beneath towering cliffs. It’s a beautiful spot to rest, snack, or even turn around if you're looking for a shorter hike. But if you're ready for a challenge, the real adventure starts from here. I'm not joking! The climb to Sarrail Ridge is steep and extremely hard. Hiking shoes are a must!!! I made this mistake but never again. Also, be prepared to climb the rope! As you gain elevation, the view opens up dramatically. When you finally reach the ridge, the view of Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes far below is jaw-dropping. It's the kind of summit that makes you forget how tired you are. At the top, it feels like you're walking on the edge of the world — with wind in your face, clouds at your level, and mountains rolling endlessly in every direction. 🥾 Quick Travel Tips: ➡️Start Point: Upper Kananaskis Lake Day Use Area — arrive early! 🕒Trail Time: 4–6 hours round trip. 💪Difficulty: Easy to Rawson Lake, steep to the ridge — poles help. ☀️Best Time: Late June to October. 🎒What to Bring: Water, snacks, layers, hiking shoes, bear spray. #SarrailRidge #RawsonLake #kananaskis #kananaskiscountry #canadianrockies #hiking #hikingtrails #alberta #albertatravel #canada #canadatravel #canadatravelgems #mountain #view #naturelovers #nature

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Staying at the forest resort "Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection" in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, it turned out to be Marriott's "Autograph Collection"! The Ogetsu Select Hotels seem to specialize in quiet mountain forests. There is one in Takaraike Park in Rakuhoku, Kyoto, which is also surrounded by lush green mountains and forests, far away from the hustle and bustle, with a panoramic view of the beautiful snow-capped mountains of Kananaskis Village. The beautiful scenery can be seen as soon as you open the window, and the environment is first-class. Prices in Canada are high, so staying at a mountain resort for a night is naturally not cheap. A 33-square-meter twin room costs NT$13,000. Fortunately, Marriott hotels can be redeemed with points, otherwise I would not be able to spend real money. But the environment and comfort level are really amazing. Bathing in the phytoncides in the Rocky Mountain forest makes your body and soul feel extremely relaxed! The hotel is well-equipped with hardware facilities, including a water park and a spa center. It can also arrange outdoor experience activities and its service quality is first-class. #CanadaTravel #RockyMountains #AutographCollection

Alberta is the home to the most scenic view of the Canadian Rockies. It’s surreal to enjoy this view from an hour and a half drive from Calgary city. This is Hali Ling trail, a not so beginner friendly hike but doable ( take it from me who didn’t warm up or prepare at all). The view from the top is worth it, it made me feel accomplished after 3 long hours of hike up to the peak. This is just one of the many Alberta mountain hikes planned on this trip and I hope to feature the rest of the beauty the Canadian Rockies has to offer. Alberta is more than Banff and Lake Louise, so make sure to explore the other National parks within Kananaskis and Canmore! #travelalberta #canadiantravel #canadianrockies #new_experience❤️ #naturalwonders #mountainhiking #kananaskis #love_nature #travel #canada2025 🍁🇨🇦

⛰️ East End of Rundle — One of Alberta’s Most Iconic Hikes If you’re looking for a hike that’s challenging, wild, and ridiculously rewarding, EEOR should be on your list. Located near Canmore, this isn’t a walk in the park — it’s a steep, rocky climb that’ll make your legs cry and your camera happy 📸 🥾 What to expect: ➡️Trailhead is just off Whitemans Pond (parking fills up fast!) ➡️The hike is steep and scrambly — you’ll be using hands sometimes. ➡️Elevation gain is intense, but you get stunning views fast ➡️Watch your footing — loose rocks all the way!!!! 🌄 The payoff: At the top? You’re standing above the clouds (almost). ✔️ Insane views of Ha Ling, Canmore, Spray Lakes, and endless peaks ✔️ Wind in your face, rock under your boots, and that “I actually did it” feeling ✔️ And of course, epic photos — especially at sunrise or golden hour. ✔️Wildlife on the way to the hike🐏 💡 Pro tips: ➡️We started around 3 p.m. - almost no people there, the whole summit belongs to you. However, parking might be challenging - we were lucky to get a spot. ➡️The start might be hard to find - use all trails app. ➡️Wear good hiking shoes — seriously. Loose rocks are hard. ➡️Bring water, snacks, and a layer for the windy summit. I saw some snowy pics in mid-July. 💡❌️Not recommended for beginners unless you're stubborn and love pain 😅 #canada #hiking #canadianrockies #kananaskis #kananaskiscanmore #kananaskiscountry

Canmore, a town nestled in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, is like a pearl treasured by time, exuding a charming and unique allure. It is not only an ideal gateway to explore the Canadian Rockies, but also a wonderland where the soul can rest and have an in-depth dialogue with nature. Itinerary • Day 1: First Arrival in Canmore - Encountering Natural Beauty: After arriving in Calgary, rent a car and drive to Canmore (about a 1-hour drive), enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Canadian Rockies along the way. After checking in, hike to Grassi Lake. This trail is about 2 hours round trip and is relatively easy, making it perfect for beginners. Along the way, you can enjoy the emerald green lake, unique rocks, and a distant view of the Three Sisters Mountain. In the evening, return to the town, stroll along the Bow River, admire the beautiful scenery of the sunset shining on the river, and feel the tranquility and peace of the town. • Day 2: Challenge the Peak - Overlooking the Magnificent Mountains and Rivers: After breakfast, head to Ha Ling Peak. This is a challenging hiking route, which takes about 4–6 hours for a round trip, but when you reach the top, you can overlook the magnificent scenery of Canmore and the surrounding mountains, making all the effort worthwhile. If you find Ha Ling Peak too difficult, you can also choose Policeman's Creek Boardwalk, stroll along the boardwalk, and enjoy the streams and surrounding natural scenery in a relaxed and pleasant way. In the afternoon, visit the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre to learn about the town's history, culture, and geological changes. In the evening, enjoy dinner in the town and experience the local cuisine. • Day 3: Winter Carnival - Enjoying the Fun of Ice and Snow (Recommended in Winter): Canmore in winter is a paradise for ice and snow enthusiasts. In the morning, head to the Canmore Nordic Centre, which was the venue for the 1988 Winter Olympics and offers various skiing and biathlon activities. Whether you are a beginner or a ski expert, you can find your own fun here. In the afternoon, you can try ice climbing, challenge the vertical ice wall under the guidance of a professional coach, and feel the excitement. In the evening, return to the town, take a hot bath, and relax. • Day 4: Exploring the Surroundings - Discovering More Surprises: Head to Kananaskis Provincial Park, which is not far from Canmore and has abundant natural landscapes and outdoor activities. You can choose to hike, ride horses, and admire the beauty of alpine lakes and forests in the park. You can also go to the Kanaskis Nordic Spa to enjoy a relaxing spa service and give your tired body a full rest. Return to Canmore in the evening, buy some souvenirs, and prepare for the return trip. Transportation Guide • Plane: First arrive at Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is about 81 km from Canmore. From the airport, you can choose to rent a car or take a bus to Canmore. • Car Rental: There are many car rental companies at Calgary Airport. Renting a car and driving yourself can give you more freedom to explore the surrounding attractions. The scenery along the way is beautiful and it is a highly recommended mode of transportation. • Bus: Rider Express, Red Arrow, and other bus companies operate routes to Canmore, but the number of buses may be limited, so you need to check and book in advance. Food Recommendations • Iron Goat Pub & Grill: Offers a variety of classic Canadian dishes, such as burgers, steaks, and fries, in generous portions and at affordable prices. Their specialty is a variety of craft beers, which can be enjoyed with the food for a unique flavor. • Crazyweed Kitchen: Focuses on healthy food, with many vegetarian and gluten-free options. Their salads, wraps, and freshly squeezed juices are recommended, with fresh ingredients and a refreshing taste. • Gaucho Brazilian Barbecue - Canmore: Friends who like barbecue must not miss this Brazilian barbecue restaurant. There are various cuts of grilled meat here, and the waiters bring large pieces of meat to the table to slice, allowing you to enjoy the pleasure of eating meat to your heart's content. Accommodation Recommendations • Blackstone Mountain Lodge by CLIQUE: A four-star hotel with spacious and comfortable rooms, some with balconies offering beautiful mountain views. The hotel also offers facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, and hot spring, with attentive service. • Mtn House by Basecamp: A very cost-effective accommodation option with clean and tidy rooms and complete facilities. The hotel is conveniently located, close to the town center and various shops and restaurants. In Canmore, every breath carries the breath of nature, and every moment can become an eternal memory. Pack your bags, come here to start a date with nature, and let your soul find a resting place among the mountains, rivers, and lakes.

A Hidden Gem in the Rockies | Canmore Travel Guide✨ If you're yearning for natural beauty where snow-capped mountains, lakes, and forests intertwine, and longing for a getaway far from the hustle and bustle, then Canmore, Canada is the perfect choice! Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, it shines like a forgotten pearl, radiating its unique charm. Today, we're sharing a Canmore travel guide to help you explore this earthly paradise~ Itinerary Planning Day 1: Arrive in Canmore → Grassi Lakes Trail hike → Town stroll, admire the "Three Sisters" peaks Day 2: Ha Ling Peak hike → Policeman's Creek Boardwalk cycling → Sample local cuisine Day 3: Canmore Nordic Centre winter sports (winter) / Visit nearby lakes (summer) → Return journey Attractions 1. Grassi Lakes Trail: Stroll along the lakeside to admire clear waters, dense forests, and distant majestic mountains. The trail is relatively easy, suitable for all ages, taking about 2-3 hours round trip. 2. Ha Ling Peak: This hiking trail is somewhat challenging, but when you reach the summit surrounded by spectacular views, all fatigue disappears as you overlook the entire town and surrounding mountains. 3. Policeman's Creek Boardwalk: Perfect for cycling, meander through town along the creek and enjoy a leisurely time. There are many viewing platforms along the way where you can stop to appreciate the scenery. 4. Canmore Nordic Centre: Host venue of the 1988 Winter Olympics, offering skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter, and mountain biking and hiking in summer. Food Recommendations 1. Poutine: A Canadian specialty featuring crispy fries topped with rich gravy and melted cheese curds - incredibly satisfying with every bite. 2. Smoked Salmon: Fresh salmon prepared with unique smoking techniques, resulting in tender meat with a rich flavor and subtle smoky aroma. 3. Maple Syrup Products: Canada's world-famous maple syrup is used to make delicious pancakes and waffles, offering sweet treats full of rich maple flavor. Accommodation Suggestions 1. Guesthouses: Choose from guesthouses in the town center to experience local life and get travel tips from hosts. Prices vary by room type and season, typically ranging from CAD 100-300 per night. 2. Hotels: If you prefer standardized service, the town offers plenty of hotels with convenient locations and complete facilities. Transportation Guide 1. Self-driving: From Calgary, drive west along Highway 1 for about 1.5 hours to reach Canmore. The route offers beautiful views with opportunities to stop and admire the Rocky Mountains. 2. Public Transit: Alternatively, arrive in Calgary first, then take a bus to Canmore. Note that bus services are limited, so plan your schedule in advance. Travel Tips 1. Check weather forecasts beforehand and pack appropriate clothing and gear. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. 2. The town area has abundant wildlife - maintain a safe distance and don't approach or feed them. 3. For winter visits to Canmore, be prepared for slippery conditions, stay warm, and book ski equipment and venues in advance. In Canmore, you can fully embrace nature's gifts and achieve complete relaxation. Come start your dream journey here~

| Ha Ling Peak: Climb the stunning skyline of the Rocky Mountains!. Hey everyone, today I'm taking you to challenge Ha Ling Peak! ✨ This is one of the most popular hiking trails in Canmore, known for its spectacular summit views, steep cliffs, and stunning views overlooking the entire Bow Valley! If you want to challenge the peaks of the Rocky Mountains and get the most breathtaking panoramic views, then this route is definitely worth a try! 🏔️👣📸 ⸻ ⛱️ Must-see attractions 📍 Ha Ling Peak Summit | The best view overlooking Canmore! • At an altitude of 2,407 meters, with a relative climb of about 800 meters, the entire hike is a bit challenging, but definitely worth it! 💪 • 360° panoramic view: Standing on the top of the mountain, you can overlook the entire town of Canmore, Bow River, Smith-Dorrien Trail, and even the mountains of Banff in the distance! 🏔️🌄 • The summit cliffs are very steep and full of adventure, making it a favorite among professional hikers and photographers! 📸 📍 Hiking Route | Classic mountaineering challenge! • The entire journey is about 7.8 kilometers (round trip), 3.9 kilometers one way, and takes an average of 3–5 hours (depending on physical strength). 🚶‍♂️ • Difficulty: Medium to high, with some slopes and gravel sections, but there are wooden steps along the way to help you climb. 🥾 • Route features: • First half: Cross through dense pine forests with fresh air, perfect for warming up. 🌲 • Second half: Starts to get steep with open views, overlooking the mountains and the town of Canmore! 🏞️ • Final sprint: Exposed rocks with excellent scenery, but you need to use both hands and feet to climb carefully! 🧗‍♂️ 📍 Sunset & Sunrise Paradise! • Many people come here in the early morning to watch the sunrise, or climb to the top in the evening to watch the sunset. The scenery of the setting sun shining on the mountains is simply beautiful! 🌅 • Recommended time: Morning or evening to avoid the strong midday sun, and the light and shadow effects are better! 📷 ⸻ 🚄 Transportation Guide 🚗 Self-driving (recommended) • From Canmore: About 15 minutes' drive to the Ha Ling Peak Trailhead parking lot, then start hiking. 🚙 • From Banff: About 30 minutes' drive, suitable for a half-day or full-day trip. 🚴 Cycling • Experienced mountain bikers can cycle along the Smith-Dorrien Trail to the start of the hike. 🚵‍♂️ ⸻ 💗 Other Tips ✔ Best hiking season • Summer (June–September): The mountain road is snow-free, making it ideal for hiking with the best views from the summit! ☀️ • Autumn (September–October): The red and yellow forests are beautiful, but the weather is getting colder, so you need to bring windproof clothing. 🍂 • Winter (November–April): The difficulty increases greatly, the road surface is icy, and you must use crampons + windproof equipment! ❄️ ✔ Equipment recommendations • Hiking shoes: You must wear professional hiking shoes. The rocky terrain in the second half requires shoes with good grip! 🥾 • Hiking poles: Can reduce knee pressure, especially useful on steep sections and when going downhill! 🚶‍♀️ • Windbreaker/warm clothing: It is windy at the top of the mountain, and it may be cold even in summer! 🌬️🧥 • Plenty of water and snacks: There are no supply points along the way, so it is recommended to bring at least 1.5L of water + energy bars! 💧🍫 ✔ Precautions • Avoid afternoon thunderstorms: Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent in the Rocky Mountain area, so it is best to hike in the morning to avoid sudden weather! ⚡🌧️ • Wild animals: You may encounter mountain goats, moose, or even bears 🐻 here. Please keep a safe distance and avoid feeding them! • Environmentally friendly mountaineering: Take away all garbage and maintain the original beauty of nature! ♻️ ⸻ 🤔 Is it worth coming? ✅ Suitable for hiking enthusiasts, the scenery after climbing to the top is stunning, and the challenge and sense of accomplishment coexist! 💪🏔️ ✅ Convenient for self-driving, very close to Canmore, suitable for arranging a half-day or day trip! 🚗 ✅ Want to shoot blockbusters in the Rocky Mountains? This is one of the best locations! 📸💙 ⸻ 🌟 Summary: Ha Ling Peak is one of the most popular hiking routes in Canmore and even the entire Rocky Mountain region. Standing on the top of the mountain and overlooking the entire world, the sense of conquest and shock is truly unparalleled! If you like hiking and adventure, you must come and challenge this mountain! 🏔️✨

Transportation🚗 1️⃣ Flight Transfer: Fly to Calgary International Airport, then rent a car or take an airport bus to arrive in about 1.5 hours; fly to Edmonton Airport, rent a car or take a long-distance bus to Canmore in about 4.5 hours🎈 2️⃣ Self-Driving: Drive west from Calgary along Trans-Canada Highway/AB-1, and you can arrive in about 1 hour ⚡️ 3️⃣ Group Tour: Join a Rocky Mountain tour and take a tour bus ⭐️ Attraction Check-In🎈 1️⃣ Three Sisters Peaks: ⛰️Canmore's iconic landscape, with three connected peaks, you can enjoy its magnificence from any corner of the town. It's super photogenic 📷. 2️⃣ Ha Ling Peak: A paradise for hiking enthusiasts 👣. After reaching the top, you can overlook the entire town and the surrounding mountains and lakes, with excellent views 😍. 3️⃣ Grassi Lakes: The lake water is clear and green, and the surrounding vegetation is rich, with the reputation of a small "Jiuzhaigou" 🤩, suitable for strolling and enjoying the natural scenery. 4️⃣ Canmore Nordic Centre: Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics 🏅, here you can experience cross-country skiing, biathlon and other projects, and feel the passion of sports 🥳. Food Recommendations🍔 🍱 The Wild Crumb: Located in the center of Banff town, it has special sourdough bread, as well as delicious meat sandwiches and panini sandwiches, which taste great 😋. 😻Brazen: Also in the center of Banff town, serving breakfast and lunch, roasted potatoes and beef tartare are worth a try, with a rich taste 🤗. ❤️Block Kitchen + Bar: Located in Banff town, specializing in Asian cuisine, the Moon Oyster, Thai Mushroom Risotto and other dishes are very distinctive and unforgettable 😝. Outdoor Activities🚴‍♀️ ⭐️ Hiking: There are easy routes suitable for beginner hikers, such as the Policeman's Creek Boardwalk, as well as challenging routes such as the Ha Ling Peak Trail, to meet the needs of different hiking enthusiasts 😉. ❄️ Skiing and Snowboarding: Canmore in winter is a great place for skiing. The local ski resorts, as well as the nearby Banff Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort, allow you to fully enjoy the fun of skiing 🎿. 🚵 Mountain Biking: There are many mountain trails suitable for cycling around the town. Shuttle through the mountains and forests, feel the breeze, and enjoy the joy of cycling 🚲. 🏌️ Golf: Canmore has a golf course surrounded by mountains. Swing in the picturesque scenery and experience a unique and comfortable experience ⛳.

#February Travel Support Event 📍Kananaskis Nordic Spa I visited the Nordic Spa inside Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. You can reserve a time slot and use it, and you can use it even if you are not staying at the lodge. This is an adult-only hot spring spa, so those under 19 cannot use it! I reserved a Nordic Spa massage and went there before getting the massage! There are several baths like an open-air bath, so I went back and forth between the sauna and the spa. Enjoying an open-air bath in Canada! I recommend trying it when you go to Kananaskis!

#JanuaryTravelSupportEvent #FebruaryTravelSupportEvent ##Kananaskis 📍Kananaskis Mountain Lodge I liked the hotel lobby and the scenery because it was so Canadian, but it was a disappointing hotel because the bathroom was too small. The bed and living space were spacious, so it was comfortable to live in, but the bathroom was so small that it would be tight for one adult. I stayed at this hotel and left all my nutritional supplements in the fridge😂 It was a disappointing hotel in many ways. However, I like the hot springs and massages inside the Kananaskis Hotel, so it's a hotel I want to go to again next time!

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection 💡 Tips

#northamericatrip Kananaskis Country, nestled in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, is a road trip paradise offering breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and serene wilderness. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a casual traveler, this destination promises an unforgettable journey. Start your adventure by taking Highway 40, also known as the Kananaskis Trail. This scenic route winds through the heart of Kananaskis, with jaw-dropping mountain vistas around every bend. Stop at Barrier Lake, where you can enjoy a leisurely hike along the shoreline or snap photos of the turquoise waters framed by towering peaks. Further along, you’ll find Kananaskis Village, a perfect spot to refuel and explore. Grab a bite at one of the cozy cafes or embark on a short hike like the Troll Falls trail, where a frozen waterfall awaits in winter. For more adventurous travelers, head to the Upper Kananaskis Lake. This gem is ideal for kayaking in summer or snowshoeing in winter. The Rawson Lake Trail offers a rewarding hike with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Don’t miss Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, home to an extensive network of trails and picnic areas. Wildlife sightings are common, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, or even a moose! Wrap up your trip with a drive to Highwood Pass, the highest paved road in Canada. Open in summer, it offers stunning alpine scenery and plenty of photo opportunities. A road trip through Kananaskis Country is a journey into the wild beauty of the Rockies—a must-do for any traveler.

Looking for an alpine retreat? Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is your perfect hideaway! 🛌 Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this hotel is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. First up, the rooms - spacious havens with views that'll have you gazing in awe. Cleanliness? Spot-on! 🧼 Whether you're back from a hike or just want to lounge, comfort is key and Kananaskis Mountain Lodge doesn't disappoint. Now, let's talk amenities. Fancy a dip? Choose between an indoor pool or an outdoor hot tub with a mountain vista. 🏊‍♂️ And for the foodies, the on-site 5-star restaurant serves up culinary delights that'll tantalize your taste buds. 🍴 Location is everything, and here, you're perfectly placed for skiing, skating, and hiking right on your doorstep. 🎿 And if you're in the mood for some pampering, the spa is your go-to for ultimate relaxation. 💆‍♀️ Ready for your mountain escape? 🗺️ Find this gem at 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada. #Kananaskis #KananaskisHotel #KananaskisTravel