AlbertaParks.ca

Alberta Parks

Kananaskis Country

Get Here

  • Kananaskis Country is a large, multi-use recreation area with lots to experience and enjoy. This system of parks, recreation areas and public land use zones is located on the southeast side of the Rocky Mountains.
  • Calgary makes a great starting point to get here.  For example, you can drive to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park in 1.75 hours.  West Bragg Creek is even closer - a 45-minute drive. 

At the Park

The network of parks in Kananaskis are a renowned destination for cross-country skiers and winter enthusiasts.   Here are a few ideas to get you started.

  • Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is an area of striking contrast where snow-capped peaks loom over quiet valleys. There are over 75 km of groomed cross-country ski trails in the park's Kananaskis Lakes area.   Stop by the Discovery & Information Centre for ski info.  Warm up at Pocaterra Warming Hut.  
  • Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area has approximately 60 km of trails for your enjoyment.  You'll find the serene, snow-covered forests and meadows of the Ribbon Creek cross-country ski area here. You can also discover Kananaskis Village which has accommodations, resort style amenities, and activities taking place year-round.
  • The Mount Shark Trail system is found in Spray Valley Provincial Park. This system of six loops was developed for skiers interested in training and racing. It's a great location for lovers of skate skiing. This trail system also provides access (via the Watridge Lake Trail) for skiers heading into Banff National Park and Mt. Assiniboine Provincial Park in BC. With a biathlon range as well, Mount Shark will get you race ready!
  • So close to Calgary, West Bragg Creek is a fun and popular day trip in winter. This extensive, multi-purpose network of trails boasts over 100 km of winter adventure. There are more than 60 km of all-season trails for hikers, dog walkers, fat bikers, snowshoers and equestrian riders, a 50 km groomed cross-country ski trail system, and 15 km of snowshoe-only trails. The area has great signage and new visitors quickly become enthusiastic fans!

Play

  • Kananaskis Country is a winter playground! Cross-country skiing is a great way to start your winter fun.
  • Snowshoeing is also available in many parks and through the backcountry in Kananaskis Country.
  • In Kananaskis Village, have fun tobogganing and ice skating.
  • Why not add fat biking or ice fishing to your trip?
  • Looking for more adrenaline? Try downhill skiing at Nakiska Ski Resort or cat skiing at Fortress Mountain.
  • Ice Climbing is popular in many areas of Kananaskis.
  • For a truly unique experience, professional guides in the area are ready to take you dogsledding! Or you can get a workout with skijoring, the dogsledding/skiing mash up.
  • Motorized travel more your speed? Snowmobiling is permitted in three snow vehicle areas. 

Stay

Tips

  • In Kananaskis Village, the Village Centre includes a rental shop offering cross-country skis, snowshoes, ice skates and other outdoor equipment.
  • Commercial outfitters in the area can help get you ready for adventure or guide you on your way. 
  • We provide trail reports for all cross-country skiing areas in Kananaskis Country.  
  • Kananaskis also has snowmobile trail reports for Cataract CreekMcLean Creek and Sibbald area.
  • To be safe, check the avalanche reportadvisories and other safety info.


Did You Know...

Only 15% of adults get enough physical activity to be healthy. And these physical activities decline in the winter! Ski, run, snowshoe or just play through winter! Find A Park, dress warm and head outdoors.