Upper Kananaskis Lake - Hike

Date: August 10, 2025
Hike Start Time: 9:00AM
Hike Finish Time: 4:00PM (approximate)
Distance: 16km
Elevation gain: 500m
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard due to distance - otherwise an easy trail

**I may move this hike to Saturday if the weather forecast changes - but for now Sunday looks better**

This is a very scenic hike that loops around the Upper Kananaskis lake crossing streams, bridges, passing by waterfalls, and includes a rocky section as well that will require some attention. We will complete the entire loop and along the way we will look for a nice spot by the water to take a break and relax in the sun!! This will be a leisurely hike to enjoy some time in nature. If you would like to swim in the lake bring any necessary gear - water shoes may be helpful for getting in and out of the water.

Please note that this area is home to grizzlies and there are often sightings of both grizzly and black bears along the trails. However, if we stay together in a large group chances are that we won't see them at all as they will most likely stay away from large groups. Carry your bear spray and know how to use it - and more importantly, when to use it!

What to bring

• Hiking shoes/boots with good treads.
• Hiking poles if you like to use them or for better control and balance.
• Foam pad (many options out there - shop around)
• Please dress in layers.
• Hat, Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Bug spray (as natural as possible)
• Plenty of water.
• Snacks/Lunch.
• Bear spray.
• Personal first aid kit.
• Toilet paper (and a bag to carry it out after use).
• If you plan on swimming bring appropriate gear.

Carpooling/Park Pass

If anyone needs a ride from the city, please make arrangements with fellow hikers and consider a contribution to your driver for gas and Kananaskis park pass.

Unfortunately, I am unable to offer rides at this time.

Weather

Upper Kananaskis Lake Weather (this page includes air quality however there are many other resources out there that you can use to check the conditions - if there is significant wildfire smoke or risk of thunderstorms, i will cancel the hike)

Meeting Spot - Meet at the parking lot at 9AM

Upper Kananaskis Day Use Area - Meetup Spot (use this link for navigation to the parking lot)

References

Upper Kananaskis Lake (AllTrails)
Kananaskis Pass
Be Bear Smart
The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

Contact

If you have any questions please call/text me at 416-876-1765.

Waiver - by signing up for this event you acknowledge and accept the following:

"I acknowledge that this activity in which I am participating, organized by Alpine Wellness Hiking Adventures and/or its members, involves risks which are beyond the control of the group. Notwithstanding the acknowledgement of such risks, I hereby release the Alpine Wellness Hiking Adventures and its organizers from all claims for damage however so arising as a result of my participation in this and any other activity organized by the Alpine Wellness Hiking Adventures. I affirm that I am aware of the nature of this activity, its length, duration and degrees of difficulty and that I am properly equipped and physically able to participate. I have no medical or other condition which might preclude my participation. I agree to pay the cost of emergency evacuation of my person and/or my belongings that may be necessary. I agree to follow the directions of the organizer(s) and any assistants at all times."