This campground will remain open during the 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis. From June 10 – 18, it can only be accessed via Highway 742 (Smith-Dorrien Trail) due to the closure of Highway 40 north from June 10 – 18 and the extended closure of Highwood Pass which opens on June 21. Vehicles towing trailers (including RVs) and low-clearance vehicles are advised not to travel via the Highway 742 (Smith- Dorrien Trail) due to steep and narrow road segments, especially up the Canmore Hill. More info including a map and visuals: AlbertaParks.ca/G7.
Due to the 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Highwood Pass will not open until June 21. While Elbow Lake backcountry campground will remain open, it can only be accessed from Highway 66 until June 21 via the Little Elbow Trailhead. Please be advised that hiking to Elbow Lake from this access point would be over 30 kilometers, including travel over the Tombstone Pass which can still be covered in snowpack into July. This route is not recommended. More info: AlbertaParks.ca/G7.
To support the 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit, the RCMP will establish a controlled access zone in Kananaskis from June 10 – 18. William Watson Lodge and Campground will be closed from June 1 – June 22. More info: AlbertaParks.ca/G7
Although an advisory is in place for this area, bears can be encountered anywhere in the Kananaskis Region at any time. To avoid a surprise encounter with a bear:
Please report all bear sightings immediately to 403-591-7755.
Map of Affected Area