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Day trips

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.