We’ve spent a lot of time in Kananaskis country over the years we lived in Calgary. While most people head straight west for Banff National Park, we would often head to the less crowded and much closer region called Kananaskis. Kananaskis is situated about 1 hour west of Calgary which makes it really close to the city for weekend hiking.
While you’re headed west from Calgary, take a left at Highway 40 and enjoy the ride, or stop in for some great hiking. Today, we’re going to take you on a little tour of what you can see from the highway. Hopefully you’ll stop in, if you’re in the area because this is a wonderful place not to be missed. However, having just said that, if you’re on a time limit you’ll definitely want to head for Banff to see all the world famous sights.
We’ve hiked extensively in Kananaskis and the Canmore region (Canmore is halfway between Calgary and Banff). Our all-time favorite hike is Mount Allen because of the sheer diversity of sites you see on the hike. I should note that it’s not for the faint of heart because it climbs around 5,000′ in 5 miles, but I’ve done it twice now and I can tell you it’s more than worth it!
Below is a list of other great objectives in the area:
1. Mount Baldy
2. Wasootch Peak
3. Memorial Lakes
4. Rainbow Falls
5. Elbow Lake and Rae Glacier
7. Yamnuska Mountain
8. Heart Mountain (between Kananaskis and Canmore)
Almost every time we drive this road, we have to stop for goats or sheep on the roads. It’s a great way to see wildlife!
I hope you’ve enjoyed the scenery today. Kananaskis is a great objective for all levels of hiking from the easiest trails to rock climbing that’s way beyond my skills. Even if you just take a drive down highway 40, you won’t regret it. The scenery gets better the farther south you go!
4 Comments on “Kananaskis Country – Alberta”
The mountain scenes are so beautiful. My husband and I are both retired…for my past time, I love sending inspiration to people by way of greeting and inspirational cards (which I create) Is it possible that could use #’s 2, 3, 6, 8 scenes to inspire, encourage and make some one’s day. Please let me know your guidelines for using images.
Thanks so much in advance
Hi Linda, thanks so much and I think it’s amazing that you send out inspirational cards – old fashioned mail is the absolute best! I currently don’t have any official way I’m selling my images, but if you just want to use these Kananaskis photos for your own purposes, (not for resale) that would be fine. 🙂
How do I get picture 7 as a wallpaper on my phone?
Would love to look at that everyday.
I’m not entirely sure, I check with Tyler and maybe I can get it to you by the weekend! 🙂