Year-Round Excitement On The Chester Lake Trail
Insider Info: If The Kananaskis Area Is Smoky, Chester Lake Is A Perfect Option Since Elevation Gain Is Minimal Compared To The Other Hikes.
The Chester Lake Hike is unique amongst Kananaskis hiking trails in that there is something for everyone who likes an alpine adventure, in warmer, dry weather or in the winter time. Chester Lake is a longer hike, but it’s sure to please with its sights and activities (more on that below), with moderate elevation gain to take away a bit of the sting.
Where Is It?
Chester Lake hiking trail is accessed off the Smith-Dorrien Trail, about 23km from the Highway 40 turnoff. In addition to normal hiking, it is frequented by bikers (for the first 2km only), snow-shoers and cross-country skiers (in winter), and fly-fishing enthusiasts. That’s right, the small, alpine Chester Lake –the destination of the hike– is a renowned fishing spot with ample Cutthroat and Dolly Varden Trout!
Once across Highway 40, the main hike officially begins. Rest assured this is a hike that almost any age, at any level of experience can accomplish within an hour or two, depending on the hurry you’re in! As an “official” trail, Cat Creek Falls is well maintained and even has signs along the trail describing the natural scenery.
A Long, Easy Hike With Endless Rewards!
If you are the type who prefers having the trail to yourself, arrive early, as this hike gets busy on nicer days. As you start from the northern end of the parking lot, the path begins its ascent through the forest. Easy-to-spot markings ensure you stay on the trail. The beginning of the trail will have you meander through the forest’s gradual elevation gains – using switchbacks to help lessen the load. While the hard-charging hiker tends to plough forward towards the destination, be sure to take some time to stop and look behind you. The views back down the mountain across the valley are a sight to behold all the way up the trail!
The path through the forest will eventually open up into alpine meadows which greet you with a different stunning setting depending on the season. Winter sees the area blanketed in snow creating a whisper-quiet atmosphere; the diversity of colours that come with autumn; the splendid green of spring and summer with the added bonus of wildflowers galore. Note that Chester Lake is renowned as a larch-viewing trail in autumn. For those precious few weeks at the end of September and the beginning of October, golden larch views stretch across the valley.
In all, it will take your group 45 to 60 minutes to reach this destination. Find a spot to rest, dip your feet in the water (it will be cold, so the full plunge is for the daring!), relax for a snack and let the kids explore the rock formations, and head back the way you came in on the easy trek back to your car.
Multiple Activities At The Lake
Upon arriving at the lake, Chester lake never fails to impress with its turquoise, mirrored water providing clear reflections of the surrounding rocky peaks. The scenery is incredible in all directions. This includes the most amazing views of golden larches in autumn, spread out before you from the direction you came.
Chester Lake itself is definitely the destination on this trail, as an abundance of activities are possible around the lake, depending on seasonal conditions. As we mentioned, fishing is a popular attraction. Additionally, having a picnic in one of the many relaxing areas to recharge for the return trip is a favourite. People are even known to swim in the lake in the summertime (or other periods if you’re especially adventurous!). Hike around the lake counter-clockwise following a small trail – even try a scramble or two up the mountain!
The Return Trek Is Just As Rewarding
Once you rest at your destination, the sun is hinting that it’s about to begin its daily descent, so that is the cue for you to head back down the trail. Luckily the trail is largely facing west. On your return trip, you will be treated to staggering valley views as the shimmering sun shines the path back to the parking lot.
Once in your car, it is about an hour back to the TransCanada Highway. A stop to refill at one of the many dining options in Kananaskis Village is the perfect way to stop and reminisce about the wonders of the Chester Lake Trail while they’re still fresh in your memory. We hate to see you leave, but after the memories created on the Chester Lake Trail, we know you’ll be back!
If you seek to try the Chester Lake Trail out in winter time, whether by snowshoe or cross-country ski, be sure to read our guide to hiking in the winter, so you can be mountain safe on your adventure.