Kananaskis is an explorer’s dream: from fine dining opportunities to an endless schedule of alpine-inspired activities, it offers an elevated wilderness experience.
Kananaskis Village, located right in the middle of it all, offers an abundance of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, including hiking, horseback riding, and watersports. For families, the village offers a unique opportunity to explore nature unbounded – yet without sacrificing modern amenities.
Thankfully, getting to Kananaskis Village is a breeze, whether you are arriving by car or shuttling from the airport in Calgary.
Here is our family-friendly itinerary of activities in Kananaskis:
Friday
Dinner at Forte Restaurant
Once your family has settled into your accommodation, a great way to begin your getaway is with a taste of contemporary mountain cuisine. Located in the Pomeroy Kananaskis Lodge, Forte Restaurant serves up indulgent dishes that are the perfect complement to the area’s alpine ambiance.
Modern Italian dishes including crispy, aromatic pizza fresh from a wood-fired oven, make sure everyone is left feeling satisfied. In Kananaskis, fire isn’t just for s’mores!
Saturday
Water Sports with Kananaskis Outfitters
Throughout the summer, Kananaskis Outfitters offers equipment rentals that make it easier (and more fun!) to enjoy the valley’s overflowing wilderness. One of the best ways to take in the stunning surroundings is by renting a canoe or kayak from their location at the Barrier Lake Day Area. Paddle your way through the crystal-clear waters, and spend the warmer part of the day floating in between the million-year-old mountains Kananaskis is blessed with.
The warmth of the sun on your skin (don’t forget sunscreen– we are known for bright blue skies and brilliant sun in the summer!) and the gentle sound of the water lapping against the boat provide the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and adventure. The Barrier Lake Day Area is also a favourite spot for paddling and picnics alike, so make sure to bring along some goodies to enjoy onshore at lunchtime.
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Sunday
Fuel Up for Adventure with Brunch
Climbing mountains requires stamina, and what better way to prepare for a hike than with a delicious brunch? Complete with fresh fruit, mountain views, and a curated cup of coffee worth getting out of bed for, Forte Restaurant offers a brunch menu filled with classics like triple stack pancakes alongside indulgent choices like eggs benedict with dry smoked bison as a local flourish.
Hit the Trails
Once you’re fueled and ready to go, it’s time to embark on an adventure to enjoy Kananakis’ star attraction: the rocky mountains. You can start local and easy with the Village Rim Trail or venture out into the wilderness of the surrounding provincial park. Alberta’s beloved alpine giants are home to hikes for everyone from the mountaineer to the entry-level explorer. These include lots of family-friendly hikes that offer the same epic views as some of the area’s most challenging. Kananaskis Outfitters offers hiking equipment rentals including poles and spikes for those embarking on a more strenuous trek.
Here are some of our picks for family-friendly hikes, both for their stunning scenery and proximity to Kananaskis Village:
Distance: 3.4 km Trail type: Loop Elevation: 263m Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.0 km Trail type: Out and Back Elevation: 53m Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 7.7 km Trail type: Loop Elevation: 234m Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Monday
Explore Alberta’s Beauty on Horseback with Boundary Ranch
Is there anything more Wild West Albertan than riding horseback through the Rockies? Boundary Ranch has operated in Kananaskis since 1987, following decades of the Guinn family’s presence riding and guiding the same trails used today. Guinn’s pass is even unofficially named after rancher Alvin Guinn.
Nowadays, Boundary Ranch offers visitors the chance to journey back into the explorer times and experience the true Kananaskis backcountry. They offer several different options for trail rides, including the beginner Buffalo Loop ride. Noted as their family favourite, this ride takes wannabe cowboys through the woods surrounding the ranch, circling past their buffalo paddock and catching glimpses of the Kananaskis mountain range.
For those seeking a longer ride, we recommend the Ridge Ride and Burger Lunch – a scenic two-hour trail ride followed by a Canadian cowboy lunch. Available to guests 6 years and up.
Accommodations for Every Budget
From family-friendly luxury to furnished trappers tents, Kananaskis Village offers multiple options to cozy up for the night. Visit our lodging page to learn more about the best places to stay in Kananaskis.
Kananaskis Village is an adventure playground waiting to be explored, and with so many activities on offer, you and your family are sure to have a blast on any weekend adventure! We’ll see you and yours out on K-Country’s trails, lakes, and mountains… you’ll want to see it all!
