Photo via Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
There’s perhaps nothing better than seeing the beautiful mountains of Banff and Kananaskis — except maybe seeing them in winter, which is an experience we in Calgary are lucky enough to have.
Snowshoeing is an activity folks have been using in these parts for thousands of years to get around. There’s no need to stop your outdoorsy experiences during winter, as all of these trails can be snowshoed, despite knee-deep snow.
Chester Lake is renowned as one of the prettiest winter hikes in Kananaskis, and with views like this, that’s no easy feat.
The first few kilometres of this 10 km out-and-back trail are steep, but it’s worth it for the scenery. It’s a forested trail leading to an alpine meadow and the lake below Mount Chester, and the first 2 km of the trail follows a logging road. You can complete this 287 m elevation snowshoe in three to five hours.
Where: Kananaskis, Alta.
How to get there: Directions and trail information
A popular destination year-round, Troll Falls is beloved for pristine snowshoeing trails and exquisite frozen waterfalls. This winter favourite is popular with ice climbers and snowshoers of all experience levels for its gorgeous views. It’s best to come prepared with microspikes and poles for this icy destination.
Where: Kananaskis, Alta.
How to get there: Directions and trail information
This 3.9 km snowshoe trail follows the shoreline of Lower Kananaskis Lake between Canyon Day Use and the Marsh Loop Snowshoe Trail. There’s a fair amount of elevation gain, so it’s a good option for experienced hikers.
Where: Kananaskis, Alta.
How to get there: Directions and trail information
The south shoreline of Upper Kananaskis Lake is exceptionally beautiful, and the area shines in winter. This snowshoe is a bit of a climber, great for experienced outdoorsy folk. It’s a 300 m climb in total, so nothing too strenuous to make up for dashing views of Mount Sarrail and one of the best snowshoe destinations in Kananaskis.
Where: Kananaskis, Alta.
How to get there: Directions and trail information
A popular snowshoeing destination, you can also spot the infamous “green monster” icefalls towards the end of this winter wonderland trail.
Where: Kananaskis, Alta.
How to get there: Directions and trail information
Note: When planning your trips, please be mindful of the dangers of waterfalls and the hikes to get to them. Always let someone know if you’re planning a day hike or overnight stay outdoors. Familiarize yourself with this safety list prior to departure.
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