Best snowshoeing trails in Kananaskis Improvement, Alberta

The West Wind Valley is closed December to June 15th for wildlife safety however this trail is not part of the seasonal closure. eep to the right! When you start the trail, there is a handwritten note that says “West Wind Pass” - follow that and keep following the orange ribbons.Show more

Winter Conditions: The trail after the lakes/opening travels through AVALANCHE TERRAIN. Do not venture up the headwall to the pass unless you 1. Have the Gear (beacon, probe, shovel), 2. Training (Avalanche Course), 3. Practice (there is a beacon pit at the trailhead), 4. Forecast (Avalanche Report) The trail begins on a wide, gently-sloped former logging road that takes you past Burstall lakes. After the lakes, the trail is reduced to a single track. The trail crosses several creeks, which may be difficult to cross early in the season. Sandals for creek-crossings are recommended if you will be visiting June-July. During the fall, the larches are on full display as they turn bright yellow. The view at the pass offers a beautiful look at the surrounding forest, and views of Banff National Park. Show more

Note: the suspension bridge closes in the winter. When snow levels get too high you cannot snowshoe across the bridge, there is a 1km trail bypass that takes you around the bridge. The parking lot is on the opposite side of the highway from the trailhead.Show more

The hike on the Black Prince Interpretive Trail is a great family-friendly hike on the Smith-Dorrien. This route takes you to Warspite Lake on a good path and there are great views once at Warspite Lake. Please note that this trail does not go to Black Prince Lake. The start of the trail is at the signed trailhead, near the outhouses. From here, head out on an old logging road. After about 15 minutes cross a bridge over Smith Dorrien Creek and continue along the broad path. Soon it enters the forest and comes to a fork. At the fork you can go either way, the right-hand trail takes you on a walk with interpretive posts and most people go in this direction. In about an hour from leaving your car (faster if you aren’t hiking with little children) you reach Warspite Lake. This is a very pretty lake, and on calm, sunny days you will want to spend a while here, savouring the view of Black Prince Cirque high above and Mount Black Prince. The reflections in the lake can provide stunning photos, and you will find yourself snapping lots of pictures on a nice day.Show more

Please note hikers have reported seeing black bears. Dogs are allowed but do follow the guidelines of the Recreation Area here: https://albertaparks.ca/albertaparksca/visit-our-parks/regulations/dogs-in-parks/Show more

This area has a huge network of trails in a fantastic forest setting. Lots of bike traffic so keep your eyes and ears open for cyclists.Show more