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Welcome to Kananaskis,
Alberta, Canada

Kananaskis is a 4,000km2 provincial park system in Alberta, located about an hour west of Calgary, full of the majestic wonder of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and endless opportunities for adventure as you reconnect with nature. This untamed natural paradise has been the secret getaway for Albertans for more than 40 years. But the word is out, and now visitors the world over are distinguishing K-Country as a “must-see” stop on their Alberta getaway. Welcome to Kananaskis, the revelation of the Rockies!

Discovering Kananaskis

Delve into the Area's Rich History and Timeless Beauty

The area of Kananaskis had been populated by First Nations people for millennia, before the first European explorer, John Palliser, set eyes upon it in 1858, with help from a Cree guide. Palliser named the area Kananaskis, a Cree word which is thought to have two translations: “meeting of the waters” or “one who is grateful”. Both are appropriate and have perhaps subconsciously come to form the identification of Albertans with this treasured land.
Scenic Mountains in Kananaskis
pattern

Drive Into Adventure

Kananaskis Conservation Pass

The Kananaskis Conservation Pass, or K-Pass, became mandatory in June 2021 for all vehicles parked in Kananaskis Country, Bow Valley Provincial Park and public land sites. Implemented by the Government of Alberta, fees are set aside to support local conservation and safety efforts, while improving services and facilities. Passes may be purchased in person at Kananaskis Visitor Information Centres (Barrier, Elbow, Peter Lougheed and William Watson Lodge) and the Canmore Nordic Centre Day Lodge or online.

Your Adventure Awaits

Explore the Areas of Kananaskis

Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park

Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park encompasses a diverse landscape of forests, mountains, and river valleys. It offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry camping, with popular trails like the Heart Creek Trail and the Bow Valley Parkway amidst stunning scenery. As a protected area, it serves as an important habitat for an array of wildlife species. 

Backcountry Hiking
Backcountry Camping
Kayaking & Canoeing
Horseback Riding
Rock Climbing
Snowshoeing
Fishing
Geocaching

Spray Valley Provincial Park

Spray Valley Provincial Park boasts picturesque landscapes characterized by rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife observation amidst its natural beauty. With popular destinations like Spray Lakes Reservoir and Chester Lake, the park offers a serene retreat for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure in Kananaskis. 

Camping
Kayaking & Canoeing
Cross Country Skiing
Fishing
Hiking
Power Boating
Wildlife Viewing
Snowshoeing

Sibbald Lake Provincial Recreation Area

Sibbald Lake Provincial Recreation Area offers a serene ambiance, enveloped by lush forests and the picturesque Sibbald Lake. Outdoor enthusiasts can delight in a variety of activities, from leisurely picnics amidst scenic vistas to immersive birdwatching experiences in the area’s diverse ecosystems. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines into the tranquil waters of Sibbald Lake, while hikers can explore the network of picturesque trails weaving through the surrounding landscape.

Camping
Hiking
Geocaching

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park offers an array of diverse hiking routes, while cyclists can enjoy both paved and challenging mountain biking trails. Elbow Lake Trail is the sole path in the park open to equestrian use, providing access to Elbow and Sheep valleys, while anglers have options for fishing in alpine lakes or Kananaskis lakes. In the winter, visitors can ski on groomed trails in the Kananaskis Lakes area or explore the Smith-Dorrien Trails System.

Backcountry Hiking
Backcountry Camping
Mountain Biking
Cross Country Skiing
Snowshoeing

Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park

Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park features rugged topography, pristine waterways, and an array of biodiversity. Adventurers can embark on immersive backcountry excursions, traversing through untouched landscapes and encountering stunning panoramas along the journey. Remote and secluded, the park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts yearning for solitude, while its extensive trail network provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation. 

Backcountry Camping
Backcountry Hiking
Fishing
Horseback Riding
Mountain Biking
Rock Climbing
Geocaching

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park is characterized by its raw and beautiful nature. An ideal setting for backcountry expeditions, no matter where you go you will be sure to be greeted with stunning vistas. More on the quiet side, the park offers a sanctuary for those looking to escape the rush of everyday life.

Backcountry Camping
Backcountry Hiking
Fishing
Mountain Biking
Wildlife Viewing
Geocaching

Sheep River Provincial Park

Sheep River Provincial Park spans from the Rockies in the west to the foothills in the east. It’s home to a diverse array of mammal and bird species. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a multitude of activities including hiking along numerous trails, horseback riding, fishing, and camping at the park’s two spacious campgrounds. In winter, the park transforms into a haven for cross-country skiers with 37 kilometres of meticulously groomed trails awaiting exploration.

Camping
Cross Country Skiing
Fishing
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Ice Skating
Mountain Biking
Geocaching

Cataract Creek Provincial Park

Cataract Creek Provincial Park offers a serene retreat amidst Kananaskis’ natural beauty. A popular destination for campers, the Park has over 102 campsites making it a perfect family destination for those searching for a natural escape. 

Camping
Fishing
Hiking
Snowmobiling
Geocaching

Boundary Ranch

Boundary Ranch offers a unique and immersive experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Visitors can partake in a range of activities, including horseback riding, wagon or sleigh rides, and even overnight pack trips, allowing them to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the area. The ranch also provides opportunities for learning about Western heritage and cowboy culture through interactive experiences such as cattle drives and cowboy cookouts.

Kananaskis Country Golf Course

Golfing at Kananaskis Country Golf Course offers a truly spectacular experience amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies. With two 18-hole courses set against stunning mountain backdrops, golfers can enjoy a memorable round surrounded by pristine wilderness. The course’s meticulously maintained fairways and greens provide an exceptional playing surface, while the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape creates a serene and picturesque setting for a day on the links.

Kananaskis Nordic Spa

If you’re looking for a rejuvenating escape, Kananaskis Nordic Spa​ provides a sanctuary for relaxation and wellness, with a variety of hot and cold pools, saunas, and steam rooms designed to invigorate the body and soothe the mind. Guests can indulge in a range of therapeutic treatments and massages, or simply unwind in the peaceful outdoor lounging areas surrounded by nature. 

Kananaskis Outfitters

Kananaskis Outfitters is your premier destination for outdoor adventures in Kananaskis County. They offer a wide range of guided tours and equipment rentals for exploring all that Kananaskis has to offer, all year round. From hiking and mountain biking to canoeing and snowshoeing, our experienced guides will lead you on unforgettable journeys or outfit you with the perfect equipment for any endeavour. 

Nakiska

Nakiska is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. With approximately 80 runs catering to all skill levels and accessible via 6 chairlifts, visitors can enjoy a diverse and thrilling mountain experience. The resort’s state-of-the-art facilities, stunning mountain vistas, and amenities such as dining options, accommodation, and recreational activities make Nakiska an ideal destination for families and adventurers.

Sundance Lodges

Sundance Lodges offers a unique and rustic camping experience nestled within the stunning wilderness of Kananaskis Country. Set amidst towering trees and tranquil meadows, the lodges provide cozy and comfortable accommodations in canvas tents equipped with wood-burning stoves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all. 

a map of Kananaskis
Bow Valley Wildland
Provincial Park
Spray Valley
Provincial Park
Sibbald Lake
Provincial Recreation Area
Peter Lougheed
Provincial Park
Elbow-Sheep Wildland
Provincial Park
Don Getty Wildland
Provincial Park
Sheep River
Provincial Park
Cataract Creek
Provincial Park

Your Adventure Awaits

Explore the Areas of Kananaskis

Provincial Parks & Recreational Areas

Experiences

Kananaskis

Fascinating Facts

Archaeological evidence for human settlements in the Kananaskis region stretch back 8,000 years
Stoney-Nakoda, Siksika, Blood and Kootenai First Nations have all inhabited this land and formed deep connections to it.
In 1902, parts of Kananaskis were originally included in what became Banff National Park. By 1911 these areas were removed and the land handed over to the Government of Alberta in 1930.
In 1988, Nakiska hosted the alpine events for the Calgary Winter Olympics
In 2002, Kananaskis hosted the G8 Summit of world leaders

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