Kananaskis Country

Alberta Parks

Mount Shark

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Updated: April 28, 2025

Updated: April 28, 2025 | Print Report

A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to park your vehicle in Kananaskis and the Bow Valley.

    April 18th:  Roads were suitable for snowcat hauling on April 17th and most trails were groomed and track set for the last time this season.  With spring freeze thaw conditions in full effect expect trails to be firm and icy in the morning softening throughout the day.

    Though thinning in places, there is still decent snow coverage on most of the Mt Shark trail system, the exceptions being one almost fully bare spot (at the top of a hill) on both Hercules and Ursa major.  Water/ice has also begun to pool in a few places, especially on Ursa Major (at the bottom of the first downhill).

    Grooming is now finished for the season in PLPP and at Mt Shark. 

    April 28th: Avalanche hazard is moderate in the alpine with spring-like conditions in most other areas. Still check avalanche.ca while planning your day. Traction devices are always a good idea this time of year.

    Expect the roads to be a mixture of mud and slush. Drive carefully.

    If heading into the backcountry, be aware of avalanche conditions. Skiers/riders and ice climbers should be aware of overhead hazards. Current conditions can be found at Avalanche Canada. 

    Note that hiking, snowshoeing and biking are permitted on Watridge Lake Trail only.

    At any time come prepared for a variety of conditions. You may want to consider bringing hiking poles, micro spikes, toques, gloves and multiple layers.  

    Be aware of closures in the area and check advisories before you go.

    Notes:

    • Be aware of avalanche conditions. Current conditions can be found at Avalanche Canada.
    • Walking, snowshoeing, and fat biking are not permitted on Mt. Shark ski trails - these activities are permitted on the snowshoe trails.
    • Dogs are permitted on-leash on Mt. Shark ski trails.
    • Bears and other Wildlife in the region are active. Practice wildlife safety. Travel in groups, make noise on the trail, and keep pets on leash. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is highly recommended.
    • It's tick season! Make sure to check you and your pets when you get home. For best protection, use a bug repellent with DEET.
    • Caution is advised for natural hazards such as downed trees. Please report any downed trees on the trails.

    Snow Depths:

    Burstall Pass: 156cm

    Mud Lake: 92cm

     

Live Grooming Report

Trail Grooming Map

Maps

Trail Name Permitted Activities (Legend) Length Status Keywords
Biathlon Range Area

Inside of range was not groomed. The firing line was groomed.

Groomed: Apr 18 		Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Open
Draco Groomed: Apr 18 Track Set: Apr 18 Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Skiing Skiing 0.8 km Open
Hercules

Exposed dirt/rocks at the usual spot- the sharp corner about half way around and the cut off just below.

Groomed: Apr 17 Track Set: Apr 17 		Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Skiing Skiing 5.4 km Open
Mass Start Area

The mass start was last groomed on April 3rd.

Groomed: Apr 03 Track Set: Apr 03 		Skiing Skiing Open
Mount Shark Helipad Access Groomed: Apr 18 Track Set: Apr 18 Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Skiing Skiing Open
Orion Groomed: Apr 18 Track Set: Apr 18 Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Skiing Skiing 2.1 km Open
Pegasus Groomed: Apr 17 Track Set: Apr 17 Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Skiing Skiing 2.8 km Open
Ursa Major

Exposed rocks and dirt on the sharp turn at the top of the 2nd uphill.

Groomed: Apr 17 Track Set: Apr 17 		Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Skiing Skiing 3.1 km Open
Virgo Groomed: Apr 17 Track Set: Apr 17 Skate Skiing Skate Skiing Skiing Skiing 2.8 km Open
Watridge Lake Groomed: Apr 17 Track Set: Apr 17 Hiking (Winter) Hiking (Winter) Skiing Skiing Skijoring Skijoring Snowshoeing Snowshoeing 3.7 km one-way Open