Rawson Lake - Easy Hike

Date: February 8, 2026

Hike Start Time: 8AM
Hike Finish Time: 2PM (approximate)
Distance: 7km
Elevation gain: 300-400m
Difficulty: Easy
Route Type: Out & Back
Group size limit: 12 (Alberta Parks _ Rawson Lake)

The trailhead for Rawson Lake is located at the Upper Kananaskis Lake Day Use Area. The trail begins with a well-marked path that winds through dense forests of spruce and pine trees and it gradually ascend through switchbacks, offering occasional glimpses of the surrounding peaks.
The trail ends at Rawson Lake, a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks, and this is as far as we will go on this adventure. Our group has gone up to Sarrail Ridge before however due to avalanche risks we will not be going up there this time. We will take some time to relax (weather permitting) by the lake, have a snack/lunch, and soak in the tranquility of this pristine mountain setting before heading back to our cars. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so dress in layers and carry extra clothing for sudden changes in temperature.

Alberta Parks has a group size limit of 14 for this trail: "We have group size limits on some of our most popular and sensitive trails to ensure large groups do not negatively impact the trails, wildlife or the enjoyment of other users."

What to bring

• Hiking boots with good treads.
• Microspikes.
• Gaiters.
• Hiking poles.
• Please dress in layers.
• Water (carry your water in an insulated thermos or have an insulated sleeve for your bladder hose)
• Lunch/Snacks.
• Bear spray.
• Personal first aid kit.
• Maybe a hot/warm beverage in your car for after the hike.

Carpooling/Park Pass

If anyone needs a ride from the city, please make arrangements through event chat or direct messaging. Please consider a contribution to your driver for gas and Kananaskis park pass.

Weather

Rawson Lake Weather
Avalanche Canada

Meeting Spot

Meet at the trailhead at 8AM

Sarrail Ridge Trailhead - 8AM

References

Rawson Lake (Alltrails)
Rawson Lake - Alberta Parks (Advisories and Closures)
Kananaskis Pass
Be Bear Smart
The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace

Contact

If you need to get in touch to cancel, if running late or if you have any questions, please do so by 7am the morning of the hike, otherwise I may not get your call/message. 416-876-1765.

Event 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."