Where to Snowshoe in Kananaskis Country

 Kananaskis Snowshoe Safety Tips

• Designated snowshoe trails in Alberta parks are Class 1 terrain. All the trails listed in this post fall under that Class 1 designation.
• If you venture off designated trails you are taking your safety into your own hands. Be responsible.
• If you want to adventure off the beaten path, be sure to take an AST 1 Avalanche Course through Splitboard HQ and check Avalanche Conditions.

It is important to be prepared, even if you plan on sticking to the designated trails. Cell phone coverage in Kananaskis is unreliable and often non-existent.

• Bring water and snacks.
• Pack an extra toque and gloves. They will save the day if you, or someone in your group, gets cold or wet.
• Pack first aid supplies.
• Bring a flashlight. The sun goes down fast in winter and it's easy to lose track of time when you're having fun snowshoeing!
• Consider carrying spare straps in case one breaks on your snowshoe. 
• Bring Bear Spray. Even though bears are asleep, there are other animals.

 Kananaskis Village

• Troll Falls Trail

This out and back is 1.7km one way. It's an easy trail that ends in a view of the scenic frozen Troll Falls. A great choice for all abilities or to get the family outside.

• Ribbon Creek Trail

This 3.7km 60m out and back trail is the longest in the Kananaskis Village area. It follows Ribbon Creek and is the perfect option for a longer day of snowshoeing.

• Kananaskis Village Loops Trail

Two loops that make for 2.5 km of scenic snowshoeing. Can be walked in either direction. Either way, you end up at Kananaskis Village for your post snowshoe hot chocolate and treats!

Smith Dorrien Trail

• Hogarth Lakes Loop

A 3.9km flat loop around the scenic Hogarth Lakes. This loop is great for beginners. You'll find it easy to combine this trail with the many others close by for a longer day in the mountains!

• Chester Lake

This 3.7km one way trail with 287m elevation gain is one of the most popular snowshoe destinations in Kananaskis!

This intermediate trail features amazing views of Mount Chester as you approach Chester Lake. 

Although it's tempting to tour around the Lake once you make it to the meadow, it is avalanche terrain. Be sure to stick to the trail, unless you are properly trained and equipped.

The trail is shared with skiers when you start from the lot--keep your eyes peeled for the snowshoe signage.

• Sawmill Loop

A longer 5.1km loop with a modest elevation gain of 155m. If you want to go for a longer snowshoe there are several trail options, including some that link with the Chester Lake trailhead.

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

• Penstock Loop

Starting at the Peter Lougheed Visitor Centre this is a relatively flat 4.7km loop with 40m elevation gain. Most of this trail is through the forest, although it does offer some sweeping views.

• Lower Kananaskis Lake Trail

This 3.3km 14m out and back starts at the Canyon Trailhead, off the Canyon exit of Kananaskis Lakes Road. It follows the Lower Kananaskis Lake Shoreline.

• Elkwood Loop

A flat 3.4km loop with 23m elevation gain. This loop starts at the Elkwood Trailhead and boasts spectacular views of Marl Lake and the surrounding Elk Range.

• Marsh Loop

A short 1.8km 21m loop starting at William Watson Lodge. This loop showcases views of Mount Indefatigable and Lower Kananaskis Lake and is the perfect addition to the Lower Kananaskis Lake Trail or Elkwood Loop.