Kananaskis Country day hike
Kananaskis Country sits about an hour west of Calgary — foothill scenery, hiking trails, and winter skiing with fewer crowds than Banff, ideal for outdoorsy families.
Trail picks
- Grassi Lakes: short, scenic, beginner- and family-friendly (watch for seasonal closures and bear advisories).
- Troll Falls / Chester Lake: moderate hikes with alpine meadows and waterfalls in summer.
- In winter, try skiing or snowshoeing near Nakiska or Kananaskis Village.
Passes & costs
- A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required per vehicle (daily or annual) — buy at ksis.ca.
- Trails are free; ski hills and rentals cost extra.
- Some trails close in winter or need traction devices — check Alberta Parks before you go.
Practical tips
- Bears and wildlife are common — make noise on trails, carry spray, never feed animals.
- Cell service is spotty; download offline maps and share your plan.
- Closer and quieter than Banff — easy same-day return without an overnight.
School zoning, transit, and merchant details can change — always confirm on official sites and in person before moving.