June 23rd: Snowpack melt in the Kananaskis is approximately four weeks behind typical melt this year. It may be summer, but snowy trail conditions and avalanches continue to be present. Many of the backcountry locations cross and/or travel through avalanche terrain. The abundant snow that fell on June 14th has melted at lower elevations, leaving trails snow free but wet and muddy in places; trails at higher elevations will still be mainly snow covered, deep in places, with some bare areas. Many trees have come down on the trails due to the recent wet snow- these  have been removed from most facility trails and removal will continue over the coming days and weeks, getting to high elevation trails as the snowpack dwindles. 

Though the Highwood Pass is re-opened, most of the trails in the Highwood are not ready for hiking. There is still over 130 cm of snow at the Pass and even more more at higher elevations. Use caution and prepare for avalanche terrain.

Important Note (June 23): The snowpack in Kananaskis is well above average for this time of year, due to low snow melt in April and May. Snow melt is currently 4 weeks behind, so what you may have been able to access safely in previous years could still be dangerous this year. Much of the terrain including popular hikes and scrambles in Kananaskis is still prone to avalanches. Visit https://www.avalanche.ca/spring-conditions and https://www.avalanche.ca/map/forecasts/kananaskis for more information and consider the precautions listed below.

• Check snowpack, trail, and weather conditions before heading out into the backcountry.
• Expect difficult conditions and more snow on trails than usual. Proper footwear and equipment are essential, such as microspikes, warm layers, and avalanche equipment depending on your plans.
• Snow can make even easy to moderate trails difficult. Know your limits and hike within them.
• Your group should have the skills, knowledge and training to travel in avalanche terrain if heading into the alpine - including Three Isle Lake, Aster Lake, and Turbine Canyon Campgrounds.
• You should carry an emergency communications device and be aware that cellular service not available in this area.
• Leave the details of your plan with a responsible person.

Attention hikers with backcountry campground reservations At Three Isle Lake, Turbine Canyon, or Aster Lake:

• You must camp on designated tent pads. Consider bringing a snow shovel.
• Be prepared for winter camping. Fires are not permitted.