The Rocky Mountain Nationwide Parks together with Banff, Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay are usually not the one locations with mind-blowing backpacking experiences within the Canadian Rockies. Head to Kananaskis Nation and take a look at this vary of wonderful backpacking journeys that can enchantment to everybody from first time backpackers to seasoned backpackers who’re snug on ethereal ridge hikes.
For these of us that reside within the Calgary – Canmore hall, many of the trailheads are simply 60 t0 90 minutes away. And most of the campsites you’ll wish to ebook are simpler to attain than those in nationwide parks. Most too have been revamped and provide higher amenities than the nationwide parks. A living proof is the terrible Baker Lake campground in Banff Nationwide Park. You gained’t discover many prefer it while you’re on one of many backpacking journeys in Kananaskis Nation.
I’ve finished many of the backpacking journeys in Kananaskis described beneath and the few exceptions will probably be knocked off in summer time 2024, climate and smoke allowing. Campsites may be booked 90 days out – and most open between Might 15 and June fifteenth, so begin planning your summer time journey now.
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Abstract of the should do in a single day backpacking journeys in Kananaskis Nation
Finest time to hike: One of the best time to do many of the backpacking journeys in Kananaskis (save for the decrease elevation ones in Elbow Sheep Wildland Provincial Park) is from late June till September. Snow usually sticks round into late June and early July, so go ready with heat garments, particularly after the solar goes down.
Canine: Permitted on a leash although not really helpful on the Northover Traverse. There are good water sources on most hikes, however it’s at all times a good suggestion to hold additional water for them.
Bears: Carry quick to entry bear spray and make a lot of noise particularly should you see recent bear scat. We now have seen steaming bear scat on the hike out from Elk Lakes and heard a grizzly within the woods close to the headwall on the way in which to Three Isle Lake. Remember to use the bear lockers and preserve a clear camp. Extra tips about staying protected in bear nation on this submit.
Allow: You will want a Kananaskis Conservation Move to do any of the backpacking journeys in Kananaskis Nation. For those who’re planning to hike greater than six occasions in a yr in Kananaskis Nation, contemplate buying the yearly go for $90, good for 2 automobiles on the similar deal with. A day go is $15 for one automobile.
Don’t neglect: Remember to inform somebody the place you’re going, observe Go away No Hint rules and pack the mountain climbing necessities.
Path reviews: As path circumstances can change on quick discover, you’ll want to take a look at Alberta Parks path reviews.
Keep in mind: You might be liable for your individual security. Go ready with the best gear and know the way on all backpacking journeys in Kananaskis.
Reserving campsites in Kananaskis Nation
You may make on-line reservations for backcountry campgrounds 90 days upfront of your go to. For instance, on March 5 reservations are reserving as much as June third.
Location map of the must-do backpacking journeys in Kananaskis Nation
Backpacking journeys in Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park, Kananaskis
Tombstones Lakes hike from Elbow Lake Day-Use Space
Trailhead: Two choices – Elbow Lake Day-use space parking zone on Freeway 40 and the Huge Elbow Path/Little Elbow Path from Little Elbow Trailhead parking off Freeway 66.
Campground location: Lat: 50.675607 Lengthy: -114.973031
Opening dates: June 15 – November 30
Distance: 7.3 km a technique from Elbow Lake, and 30.7 km from the Little Elbow trailhead.
Elevation acquire: 125 m from Elbow Lake, or 650 m from Little Elbow trailhead.
Stage of issue: Straightforward from the Elbow Lake Day-use space and onerous from the Little Elbow trailhead due to the gap.
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Amenities: 11 campsites, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, firewood and firepits.
Aspect journeys from the campground: Rae Lake hike, detour to Edworthy Falls, and Piper Move hike
Expertise: It’s a ravishing hike and a simple one to succeed in the Tombstone Lakes campground from Freeway 40. After a brief however steep climb to Elbow Lake, observe a gently rolling street with stunning views to a T-junction on the finish of the street. Go left and descend earlier than following a road-like path throughout the Elbow River Bridge. In just some minutes attain the spacious and well-appointed campground within the woods.
I extremely advocate the detour to Edworthy Falls – an awesome place for lunch on a scorching day. The ultimate descent to the falls is a steep one – so watch out.
After claiming a campsite and establishing your tent proceed for 75 – 90 minutes (return) as much as beautiful Tombstone Lake. It’s additionally the proper after dinner hike.
Mount Romulus
Trailhead: Little Elbow trailhead parking
Campground location: Lat: 50.761820 Lengthy: -114.988820
Opening dates: Might 15 – November 30
Distance: 11.9 km a technique
Elevation acquire: 175 m
Stage of issue: Straightforward
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Amenities: 10 campsites, safe meals storage, pit/vault bogs, firewood and firepits, hitching rails.
Aspect journeys from the campground: It’s 8.8 km one technique to Tombstone Lakes or you may make a loop and keep at Huge Elbow Campground one night time. You would additionally do a day hike to Talus Lakes.
Expertise: It’s a straightforward stroll primarily alongside a hearth street with the Elbow River working roughly parallel to it. This journey combines nicely with Huge Elbow and is a superb introduction to backpacking. And it’s a reasonably hike too – with a mixture of forest, river, and mountain views.
The hike to Huge Elbow Campground
Trailhead: Little Elbow trailhead parking
Campground location: Lat:50.723768 Lengthy: -114.859643
Opening dates: Might 15 – November 30
Distance: 8.3 km
Elevation acquire: Roughly 172 m
Stage of issue: Straightforward
Amenities: 10 campsites, safe meals storage, pit/vault bogs, firewood and firepits, hitching rails.
Map: Gem Trek Bragg Creek and Sheep Valley
Aspect journeys from the campground: It’s 12.2 km one technique to Tombstone Lakes or make a loop and keep at Romulus Campground the second night time.
Expertise: It’s a scenic simple hike by way of an outdated entry street to the Huge Elbow Campground – and also you gained’t discover lots of elevation acquire. Get pleasure from views of Banded Peak and Threepoint Mountain. There may be additionally a backcountry equestrian campground close by.
Backpacking journeys in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, Kananaskis Nation
Backpacking to Elbow Lake
Trailhead: Elbow Move Day Use Space off Freeway 40 (accessible from June 15 – November thirtieth)
Campground location: Lat: 50.637443 Lengthy: -115.009242
Opening dates: June 15 – November 30
Distance: 1.3 km a technique
Elevation acquire: 125 m
Stage of issue: Straightforward and household pleasant.
Amenities: 15 campsites, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, firewood, hearth pits
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Aspect journeys from the campground: Rae Glacier, Edworthy Falls, Piper Move, Rae Lake
Expertise: This is among the best backpacking journeys in Kananaskis and an awesome one to do with youthful youngsters. It’s a brief although steep stroll by way of the woods up from the parking zone beside Freeway 40 to succeed in the Elbow Lake Campground. Quick hikers can be there in 20 minutes however it you’ve obtained little folks it would take an hour. As soon as up on the campground there’s a lot of exploring to do across the emerald inexperienced lake.
Level Campground
Trailhead: North Interlakes Day Use Space
Campground location: Lat:50.627449 Lengthy: -115.178892
Opening dates: Open yr spherical
Distance: 3.4 km a technique
Elevation acquire: 25 m
Stage of issue: Straightforward and household pleasant.
Amenities: 20 campsites, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, firepits, firewood out there.
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Aspect journeys from the campground: Forks Campground, Rawson Lake
Expertise: You possibly can hike or paddle over the Level Campground. It’s a simple hike, but when the wind picks up prefer it did for us, it may be a tricky paddle even for the quick distance.
There are two trails that head to the Level Campground – parallel to one another, all beginning beside the dam. One is greater and provides some views whereas the opposite retains you nearer to the water. It’s solely about an hour’s hike to succeed in the turnoff to the Level Campground. Have a great go searching as among the campsites are significantly personal with some good water views.
Backpacking to the Forks Campground in Kananaskis Nation
Trailhead: North Interlakes Day-use Space
Campground location: Lat: 50.634741 Lengthy: -115.232454
Opening dates: June 15 – November thirtieth
Distance: 7.3 km a technique
Elevation acquire: 100 m
Stage of issue: Straightforward
Amenities: 20 campsites, bear lockers, pit/vault bogs, benches, picnic tables.
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Aspect journeys from the campground: Three Isle Lake, Turbine Canyon, Level Campground
Expertise: I believe the Forks Campground makes a high quality backpacking vacation spot in itself – particularly for households with youngsters which can be within the 8 – 12-year age vary.
The path is nicely signed from its begin on the North Interlakes Day-use space. The path is scenic too, passing the Palliser rockslide and a rockslide on the base of Mount Lyautey. There are a number of creek and river crossings together with Invincible Creek and the Kananaskis River. The final a part of the hike on the way in which to the Forks Campground consists of quite a few boardwalk sections.
Turbine Canyon – North Kananaskis Move
Trailhead: North Interlakes Day-Use Space
Campground location: Lat:50.686718 Lengthy: -115.275096
Opening dates: June 24 – November 30
Distance: 15.1 km a technique
Elevation acquire: 525 metres
Stage of issue: Average
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Amenities: 15 campsites, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, however no fires allowed.
Aspect journeys from the campground: Haig Glacier, North Kananaskis Move – or a part of a loop that features Beatty Lake, South Kananaskis Move and Three Isle Lake.
Expertise: From the Forks Campground begin climbing, steeply at occasions to succeed in swaths of larches at treeline. The intensive larch part could be magnificent in fall.
Proceed up by way of switchbacks to succeed in a saddle overlooking Putnik Pond. From right here the grade moderates as you make your means north in direction of Lawson Lake – and finally the Turbine Canyon Campground. Get pleasure from stunning mountain views, streams, and meadows alongside the a part of the hike. Tent websites are scattered all through the forest north of Maude Creek.
Three Isle Lake – one of many tougher backpacking journeys in Kananaskis
Trailhead: North Interlakes Day-use Space
Campground location: Lat:50.630093 Lengthy: -115.267343
Opening dates: June 24 – November 30
Distance: 10.3 km a technique
Elevation acquire: 500 m
Stage of issue: Exhausting due to the steep elevation acquire on the headwall.
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Amenities: 16 campsites scattered throughout two separate loops, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, picnic sort tables. No fires right here.
Aspect journeys from the campground: South Kananaskis Move and Beatty Lake in BC could be good selections.
Expertise: It’s a straightforward hike to succeed in the Forks Campground, a great place to take pleasure in lunch and refill water bottles. From there the subsequent few kilometres are nonetheless simple, although there’s some elevation acquire. It’s the steep headwall that makes this a tricky hike, particularly whereas carrying a backpack. Get pleasure from far-reaching views earlier than persevering with up at a lesser grade to succeed in the primary of the campsites within the forest. The following set of campsites are one other half a kilometre away – and don’t seem from my few visits to be as nicely used.
For those who elect to do the Northover Traverse, it would be best to keep right here both the primary night time or after you’ve descended from the ridge.
Northover Traverse by way of Aster Lake (and Three Isle Lake Campgrounds)
Trailhead: Higher Kananaskis Day-use space
Campsite location for Aster Lake: Lat: 50.580097 Lengthy: -115.204170
Opening dates: June 24 – November 30 however the Northover Traverse is finest finished in August. You need the snow to be gone!
Distance: 10.8 km one technique to the Aster Lake Campground by way of an unmaintained path as a part of a 33.7 km loop.
Elevation acquire: 550 m – and 1,180 m in complete on the Northover Ridge loop.
Stage of issue: Exhausting with publicity.
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Amenities: 6 campsites at Aster Lake, pit/vault bogs, safe meals storage. No fires permitted.
Aspect journeys from the campground: None
Expertise: I’ve the toughest backpacking journey in Kananaskis deliberate for August 2024. I used to be informed by somebody who runs the path yearly to go for Aster Lake first. There’s some large publicity on the ascent on the east wall of the decrease scree slopes of the west face of Mt. Sarrail Ridge. And the ridge itself is shoulder width huge for lengthy stretches, so its no place for folks with out a great deal of mountain climbing expertise.
The snow must be gone for it to be protected to both ascend to Aster Lake or descend from it. Keep tuned for a full journey report.
Pictures are by way of from my buddy who runs the route each summer time.
Lillian Lake backpacking
Trailhead: Galatea Day-use Space on Freeway 40.
Campsite location: Lat:50.863738 Lengthy: -115.252657
Opening dates: June 29 – November 30
Distance: 6.0 km a technique
Elevation acquire: 475 m
Stage of issue: Straightforward to average.
Map: Gem Trek Canmore and Kananaskis Village
Amenities: 17 campsites together with some which can be raised tent platforms, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, firewood, hearth pits.
Aspect journeys from the campground: Galatea Lakes and Guinn Move. In concept even Ribbon Lake.
Expertise: The backpacking journey to Lillian Lake in Kananaskis Nation is among the simpler ones – however it’s much less attention-grabbing mountain climbing till you attain Lillian Lake. It’s an easy path that begins after you cross the suspension bridge over the Kananaskis River. There are quite a few small bridges you have to cross – all within the forest with some occasional nice peak-a-boo view.
When you attain Lillian Lake the surroundings will get rather more attention-grabbing. The lake is a superb in a single day vacation spot because it means that you can discover the attractive Galatea Lakes and Guinn Move and not using a heavy backpack.
Elk Lakes and Petain Basin in Elk Lakes Park, BC
Trailhead: Elk Move trailhead parking zone in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park
Opening dates: 12 months spherical
Distance: 9.2 km to Decrease Elk Lake Campground in British Columbia.
Elevation acquire: 185 m to Higher Elk Lake (adopted by a straightforward descent to Decrease Elk Lake)
Stage of issue: Straightforward
Price: First come, first served tenting. You possibly can register on-line or self-register in Elk Lakes Park. Carry money – small payments. It’s $5 per night time per particular person.
Map: Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map
Amenities: 10 wilderness campsites although there gave the impression to be extra like 15 – 20 campsites after I was there, pit bogs, meals cache, hearth rings, benches
Aspect journeys from the campground: Petain Falls and Petain Basin (a full day hike), Viewpoint Path, Fox Lake Path.
Expertise: Of all of the backpacking journeys described, that is the one one which begins in Kananaskis Nation however ends at a campsite in British Columbia. From the Elk Move parking zone observe Powerline Street, cross over Fox Creek, and proceed in direction of Elk Move on the BC-Alberta border.
On the border we headed for Fox Lake and from there it’s solely 3.5 km, largely downhill to succeed in a signed T-junction pointing to the campground one km distant. The Elk Lakes are stunning as is the hike to Petain Falls.
The campground is first come, first served and most of the people drive up from Sparwood and the take pleasure in an excellent simple stroll in. Get there in loads of time to nab a campsite.
Backpacking journeys in Spray Valley Provincial Park, Kananaskis Nation
Ribbon Falls
Trailhead: Ribbon Creek Day-use space in Evan Thomas Provincial Precreation Space
Campsite location: Lat:50.892203 Lengthy: -115.229125
Opening dates: June 15 – November 30
Distance: 10.4 km a technique (longer than what the Alberta Parks web site suggests)
Elevation acquire: 375 m
Stage of issue: Straightforward
Map: Gem Trek Canmore and Kananaskis Village
Amenities: 10 campsites, pit/vault bogs, close to lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, firewood, and hearth pits.
Aspect journeys from the campground: Ribbon Lake
Expertise: This is among the longer backpacking journeys in Kananaskis – however it’s nonetheless a straightforward one as there isn’t a lot elevation acquire. It’s an awesome one to do on a scorching day as you parallel the river, so there are many alternatives for you and your canine to chill off.
From the parking zone at Ribbon Creek, you merely observe Ribbon Creek, crossing 7 or 8 bridges as you make your means up Ribbon Valley. You’ll go a turnoff to Memorial Lakes – a worthwhile hike – and one other one the place you may wild camp close to the primary of the lakes in Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park.
For those who’re feeling adventurous you would do the two km a technique aspect journey to Ribbon Lake – however there’s a steep chain part you’ll have to barter.
Ribbon Lake
Trailhead: Ribbon Creek Day-use space in Evan Thomas Provincial Recreation Space or from Galatea Lakes or alternatively from Buller Move.
Campsite location: Lat:50.886506 Lengthy: -115.248081
Opening dates: June 24 – November 30
Noteworthy: There’s a very steep part with chains to assist with the climb between Ribbon Falls and Ribbon Lake. If you wish to keep away from this, select one of many different entry trails.
Distance: 10.8 km a technique from each the Ribbon Creek path and the Galatea Day-use space OR 10.1 km or from the Buller Mountain Day-use Space by way of the Buller Move Path.
Elevation acquire: 625 m from the Ribbon Creek path, 870 m from the Galatea Day-use parking zone, 670 m by way of Buller Mountain Day-use space.
Stage of issue: Straightforward
Map: Gem Trek Canmore and Kananaskis Village
Amenities: 20 campsites, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, firepits and firewood.
Aspect journeys from the campground: Guinn Move, Ribbon Falls – relying on what your entry level is.
Expertise: Ribbon Lake, situated excessive above Ribbon Creek, provides excellent views of the encircling peaks. It’s a better one to snag a reservation because it’s one of many more durable backpacking journeys in Kananaskis.
For those who don’t wish to do the steep chain part after Ribbon Falls, then you definately’ll have to return in by way of Galatea Lakes and Guinn Move which is able to get your heartrate up or by way of Buller Move, the best of the three choices.
Backpacking journeys in Bow Valley Provincial Park, Kananaskis Nation
Jewell Bay Backcountry Campground
Trailhead: Barrier Dam Day-use space
Campsite location: Lat: 51.023576 Lengthy: -115.082083
Opening dates: June 16 – April 14 (closed for elk motion for 2 months)
Distance: 3.9 km
Elevation acquire: Minimal.
Stage of issue: Straightforward
Maps: Gem Trek Canmore and Kananaskis Village
Amenities: 11 campsites, pit/vault bogs, bear lockers, sitting space with benches, picnic sort tables, firewood, hearth pits, hitching rails and horse corrals.
Aspect journeys from the campground: Prairie View – Jewell Move and Yates Mountain (Barrier Lake Hearth Lookout).
Expertise: The gorgeous Jewell Bay backcountry campground situated on the northwest shore of Barrier Lake may be accessed on foot by way of the Stoney Path from the Barrier Dam Day-use Space, by bike and even by boat.
The campsite may be very near the path that comes down from Jewell Move. The hike to get to the campsite will not be as wild and fairly as others, however it’s one other nice one for households and the lake is often an alluring turquoise- blue.
What to tackle backpacking journeys in Kananaskis Nation
Think about carrying a Garmin InReach Mini in case you ever run into bother.
Even in the midst of summer time I might advocate packing a down sweater like this one from Patagonia.
You’ll want sunscreen and insect repellent on most of the hikes in summer time.
I recommend carrying a gear restore patch package in case something ever goes flawed together with your tent, sleeping mat, coat, and so on.
Don’t neglect a solar hat with a brim and a bandana which you could soak in chilly water to chill off.
Carry water purifying tablets and should you’re with a gaggle contemplate having somebody carry a gravity water filter.
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