Welcome to Kananaskis Country, Alberta’s Hidden Gem
Your ultimate guide to Kananaskis Country, curated for adventurers with Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge as your basecamp Created by the travel editors at Hotels Above Par, this guide offers a local’s perspective through an editorial lens.
Inside, discover the story behind the lodge where to eat and drink, what to explore, and how to experience the best of this wild stretch of Canadian terrain.
Where Backcountry Beauty & Luxury Meet
Words by BritneyEschelman
When you arrive at Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, you feel as though you’ve been let in on a well-kept secret. Tucked against the towering Canadian Rockies, this alpine retreat feels like the mountain home of your dreams brought to life. A 1-hour drive from Calgary’s city limits, you’ll find an ultra-modern getaway nestled amidst the pines where luxury and mountain living blend seamlessly
This 247-room hotel comes complete with rustic-modern abodes, five dining outlets, a serene Nordic spa, and direct access to some of Alberta’s best hiking and cross-country trails. Beloved by locals for decades, it remains the quintessential basecamp for every kind of alpine adventure
PhotoCredit:MacsemniukBrothers
Just steps from the Lodge, the 71-key, boutique hotel-within-a-hotel concept debuted in April 2025. Designed for discerning guests seeking the utmost in luxury, service, and amenities, Black Diamond Club blends alpine décor with contemporary motifs With full access to the greater lodge amenities, this exclusive enclave offers a serene oasis to unwind and recharge Expansive windows frame secluded forest vistas, while intimate gathering spaces are complemented by warm breakfast delights, après-adventure snacks, and a thoughtful selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and mocktails.
Inside the guest rooms, oversized beds dressed in crisp linens, ample closet space for outdoor gear, and rustic antler wall hooks lend a cozy, home-awayfrom-home touch En suite bathrooms become the perfect respite after a day outside, featuring rain showers and luxurious geranium-scented soaps by the B-Corp–certified wellness brand Bamford The property also hosted world leaders during the recent G7 Summit in Kananaskis Country an accolade that underscores its refined sense of sophistication.
Where Every Bite Comes With a View
Spread across the property grounds, five restaurants showcase the bounty of Alberta and British Columbia.
Cedar Room
Cedar Room, open exclusively for dinner, is an elevated Alberta chophouse experience where advance reservations are highly recommended Expect refined cuts and indulgent sides, plus a selection of standout starters like the seafood platter, veal carpaccio, and the beloved table-side Caesar. Going all-in?
The Tomahawk, served with honey-and-pepper carrots and creamy srirachaspiked gnocchi, is a house signature. And don’t skip dessert the Baked Alaska remains a perennial favourite
CedarRoomDinner Credit:MacsemniukBrothers
Clockwisefromleft:BlacktailBarPatioForteAppetizer,andBlacktailBarCocktail
Blacktail Bar
Blacktail Bar, meanwhile, acts as the lively hub of the lobby with classic and seasonal cocktails, local beer, and delicious food served for lunch and dinner Its patio is a summertime essential, offering mountain views that pair beautifully with an aprèsadventure drink or casual bite
Woody’s Pub
Woody’s Pub also shines as an après spot, popular for craft beer, live music, and pool-table camaraderie; come summer, its patio is one of the best places to take in the views with friends.
Forte
For Italian fare in a family-friendly setting, Forte is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner no reservation required. Breakfast highlights include triple-stacked pancakes with Canadian maple syrup, while dinner favourites include ricottaladen pastas and oven-fired pizzas
Market Café
Casual grab-and-go bites are found at Market Café, where egg sandwiches, Italian subs, and coffee fuel guests before they head into the wilderness.
Across Blacktail Bar, Woody’s, and Forte, patio season is a highlight—their open-air terraces offer sweeping views that rival the food itself.
Inside the Kananaskis Nordic Spa
Hot. Cold. Rest. Repeat.
The Kananaskis Nordic Spa is the property’s crown jewel The hydrotherapy circuit—anchored by the rhythmic cycle of Hot.Cold.Rest. Repeat. guides guests through an intentional journey of rejuvenation. Begin in the hot stage in one of the pools, saunas, or steam rooms before stepping into the Cold Plunge or Cold Cascades, designed to awaken circulation and clarity. Between cycles, rest by a fireside nook, sway in a forest-view hammock, or stretch out in the newest indoor relaxation space, the Calm Cabin
Each element of the circuit is purposefully placed: the Gathering Pool hums with soft conversation, the Elements Pool bubbles beneath mountain air, and the Forest View Sauna offers serenity framed by evergreens The philosophy is simple alternate temperatures, reset the nervous system, and find stillness in motion The results? Reduced stress, improved circulation, deeper sleep, and that unmistakable post-spa glow that lingers long after you’ve left.
Committed to delivering an unparalleled wellness experience, the Nordic Spa has recently added new elements to each stage of the hydrotherapy circuit, with more to come. Recent additions include the Forest View Sauna, Cabin Sauna, Calm Cabin, Cold Cascades, and the newly renovated Two Trees Bistro “where reconnect meets refuel.”
Exploring the Wild of Kananaskis Country
Adventure unfolds in everydirection here, from pine-lined trails to alpine lookouts. Beyond the lodge’s doors, trails wind through pinescented air, ridgelines rise into the clouds, and hidden lookouts reward those who wander.
Carry bear spray, and check AlbertaParksPublicSafety& Advisories for trail updates, closures, and wildlife warnings Before You Go
WedgePond: A calm, reflective lake framed by Mount Kidd visit at sunrise or sunset when the peaks shimmer in gold
Barrier Lake: A glacier-fed turquoise gem perfect for paddling or a shoreline picnic For elevated views of the valley, head up the Barrier Lake Trail, a local favourite. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are available at the Kananaskis Boathouse on the shore of Barrier Lake ensure proper PFD use when exploring glacial waters
Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes: Two of the region’s most iconic lakes, offering stunning views, cascading waterfalls, picnic spots, and scenic lakeside trails. Don’t miss Rawson Lake for its emerald waters, and for experienced hikers, the legendary Sarrail Ridge Trail delivers one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the province
Troll Falls: A family-friendly trail leading to a lovely series of cascades perfect for kids, photographers, and anyone seeking a low-effort, high-reward outing.
Blackshale Suspension Bridge: Another great family option, featuring a gently swaying suspension bridge above a forested canyon with sweeping views and a standout photo op
Tent Ridge: For more experienced hikers, Tent Ridge offers epic 360° panoramas of Spray Lakes and the surrounding peaks an unforgettable sunrise ridge-loop
Clockwisefromtopleft:SarrailRidge(Photo:MikeSeehagel@mikeseehagel),ChesterLake(Courtesyof TravelAlberta/SilverFernProductions),WedgePond(CourtesyofTravelAlberta/SilverFernProductions), UpperKananaskisLake(Photo:KarlLee@karlleephoto),andBarrierLake(Photo:KarlLee@karlleephoto)
Kananaskis Outfitters: Adventure Starts Here
At 23, Ontario native Michelle Earls traded lake countryfor the peaks of Alberta. With a background in Nature-Based Travel Tourism, Michelle founded Kananaskis Outfitters in 2006. Today, her team runs the region’s premier outdoor hub, right in Kananaskis Village.
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Rentals for EveryAdventure
Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards for exploring glacier-fed lakes; mountain bikes and e-bikes for forest trails; and in winter, snowshoes, cross-country skis, ice skates, and fat bikes If it gets you outside, they’ve got it
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Guided Tours
Join expert-led outings ranging from forest bathing and guided hikes to night-sky programs, wildlife interpretation, and seasonal specialty tours
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The Kananaskis Boathouse
Located on stunning Barrier Lake, the Boathouse is your launch point for paddling sessions, SUP lessons, and shoreline exploration. (Life jackets/PFDs are required on all glacial waters )
LocalTip: Reserve rentals early on summer weekends they book up quickly
Scan the QR code to browse the adventures
Cowboy Culture at Boundary Ranch
Words by BritneyEschelman
If there’s one experience to book beyond the activities offered at the lodge, make it the Trail Ride excursion with Boundary Ranch Whether you’re a horse lover or not, this ride is worth it as much for the sweeping views as for the story it tells. Saddle up and wind through Kananaskis’ postcard-perfect valleys with the family-run ranch founded by Richard and Denise Guinn true cowboy-meets-cowgirl legends who carry on a generational legacy of wrangling and Western culture in the region.
My horse, Walker, and I trotted and galloped through the woods (only stopping for two snack breaks along the way). I was told Walker tends to be on the slower side hence his name but during our ride, he took the lead the entire way The Boundary Ranch crew joked that maybe he had a soft spot for me (which, of course, I chose to believe) After the ride, you can pop into the Guinn Family Wildlife Museum to explore the family’s fascinating multi-generational history and deep roots in Alberta’s cowboy heritage.
Photocredit:TravelAlberta/KarlLee@karlleephoto
Tee it Up at Kananaskis CountryGolf Course
Boasting two 18-hole courses Mt Kidd and Mt Lorette the Kananaskis Country Golf Course is a local gem Awarded the title of “Best Value Golf Course in North America,” it offers a world-class experience for a fraction of what you’d expect.
Between the crisp alpine air, fairways that frame the peaks, and that unmistakable hush that settles over the valley, it’s easily one of the most scenic rounds you’ll ever play
After a morning on the greens, grab a seat at The Summit Restaurant inside the clubhouse The views alone are worth the visit it’s where one of the G7 meals was once hosted, after all but the food delivers, too. Order the club sandwich (trust me on this one) and settle onto the patio, where the Kananaskis Valley unfolds before you like a cinematic short film
Scan the QR code to book Boundary Ranch.
Scan the QR code to schedule your tee time.
Hop on. Hop off. Explore More.
Discover the beautyof Kananaskis with ease on the Explore Kananaskis Shuttle—your free and convenient wayto get to the region’s top destinations.
This hop-on, hop-off shuttle makes it simple to explore iconic trails, attractions, and experiences without the hassle of parking. Routes and stops rotate each season, connecting you with the best trails and experiences at the perfect time to explore
Plan Your Ride
Scan for shuttleroutes, stops, and seasonalschedules.
Leave the keys. We’ll handle the roads.
Howit Works
– Free service for all visitors
– First-come, first-serve seating
– Runs daily with stops at popular locations in the Kananaskis region
– Look for the shuttle marked with the Explore Kananaskis logo
– Pet-friendly service
– The schedule changes seasonally
Shuttle Stops
VillageCentre(hub)
– Kananaskis Mountain Lodge
– Black Diamond Club
– Kananaskis Nordic Spa
– Kananaskis Outfitters
– Moose Family Kitchen
– Woody’s Pub
– Forte Restaurant
– Blacktail Bar
– Cedar Room Restaurant
– Little Detour Gift Shop
Kananaskis in Winter Wonderland
With Kananaskis Mountain Lodge as your cozybase, adventure meets alpine comfort at everyturn. Spend the morning gliding through powderytrails or skating across a frozen lake so clear you can see the bubbles trapped beneath the ice.
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SnowSports & Trails
From snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to downhill runs at Nakiska Ski Area, winter in Kananaskis offers endless ways to play in the snow. During the holidays, step into a Hallmark movie moment with a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the forest at Boundary Ranch
2 Guided Winter Experiences
Join expert-led outings ranging from forest bathing and wildlife interpretation to nightsky programs and seasonal specialty tours These immersive experiences are designed to help guests connect with the landscape in new and meaningful ways.
3 Ice Adventures
Skate across glassy frozen lakes, try your hand at ice fishing, or warm up between Village Pond laps with a fireside hot chocolate For a true Kananaskis highlight, glide across ice so clear you can see the bubbles suspended below the surface.
Clockwisefromtopleft:SleighridesatBoundaryRanch;skiingatNakiska(Credit:TravelAlberta); snowshoeingandstargazing(Credit:TravelAlbertaandJaimeVedres).
Each December, the lodge comes alive with festive décor, enchanting familytraditions, and seasonal experiences that make Kananaskis feel like a true alpine holidayhaven.
Elftuc
Those who visit during the winter months will see that the holiday spirit runs deep here Each December, the lodge transforms into a snow-dusted storybook scene for its “Merry Kananaskis” festivities complete with sparkling décor, festive dining, and twinkling alpine charm
Families can visit Santa’s real reindeer, ride the holiday train through the forest, and even book an Elf Tuck-In Service, where a Christmas elf stops by the room for bedtime stories and cookies. Adults get their share of magic, too, from festive cocktails at the Blacktail Bar to elegant holiday dinners beneath the glow of the grand tree in the lodge lobby.
Whether you’re watching s spa pools or sipping mulled wine by the fire, the season here fe hristmas village. ndeervisits
The Festive Breakdown
The Mountains, Made for Families
Whether it’s little ones splashing at the waterpark, skiing their first slopes at Nakiska’s ski school, or roasting marshmallows under the stars during Fireside Moments, Kananaskis is made for family memories.
1 All-Ages Trails
Try the Village Rim Trail for a smooth, paved path with panoramic mountain views perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, grandparents, and anyone looking for an effortless, scenic walk. For a longer adventure, the paved Bill Milne Trail connects the village to beautiful Wedge Pond, passing alpine vistas and the golf course along the way
2 Waterpark Fun
The indoor waterpark is a year-round family favourite It’s the ultimate aprèsadventure hangout where kids can play while adults unwind in the steam room or hot tub. No matter the weather outside, the fun never slows down here.
3 Ski School at Nakiska
Nakiska’s ski school offers lessons for all ages and abilities, making it the ideal place for first turns and family fun on the slopes. Certified instructors keep things safe and encouraging, and on-site rentals mean everything you need is steps away
4 NannyServices
Available through the concierge, the lodge’s professional nanny services give parents a well-deserved evening to themselves whether that’s a quiet dinner at Cedar Room or a dip in the spa’s outdoor pools under the stars.
5 Guest Activities
From supervised kids’ programs to all-ages experiences, there’s always something happening on the lodge’s monthly activity calendar Think candle-making workshops, aint & Sip sessions, and more
Kananaskis, Season bySeason
Spring & Summer
Warm weather in Kananaskis opens the door to sunlit trails, turquoise lakes, and wide-open exploration. Start your dayslow, sip something seasonal, then choose the adventure your mood calls for—on horseback, on wheels, or on glacial water.
7:00 a.m. — Wake Up
WakeUp&VisitMarketCafeforaseasonalcoffeeandstrollthe VillageRimTrailasMountKiddislitwiththerisingsun
10:00 a.m. Sunlit Activities
Chooseyouradventure:atwo-hourRidgeRideatBoundaryRanch, windingthroughcinematicalpineterrain;ane-bikejourneyalongthe BillMilneTrailtoWedgePondforlakesidelounging;orascenicdriveto BarrierLake,wheretheKananaskisBoathouseawaitswithcanoes andkayaksforglacial-waterexplorations
5:00 p.m. — Sunset to Supper
R t t th Vill forcocktailsonBlacktailBar’spatio Then,freshen eSpaanddinneratTwoTreesBistro orsettlein gatCedarRoom
9:00 p.m. — Nightcap
Closeoutthenightbythefirepits,s’moresinhand,andstarssettling overthevalley.
Fall & Winter
As the seasons shift, Kananaskis transforms into a cozyalpine retreat. Golden larch trees, snow-dusted trails, and twinkle-lit evenings set the stage for crisp adventure and fireside relaxation.
8:00 a.m. — Wake Up
VisitMarketCaféforawarmseasonaldrink,thenstrolltheVillageRim TrailassnowcappedMountKiddcatchesthemorninglight Enjoy breakfastattheBlackDiamondClubLoungeorForteRestaurant.
10:00 a.m. — Crisp Adventures
BeginyourmorningwithaNordicskiormountainbikelessonledby KananaskisOutfitters.Preferliftstolessons?HopontheExplore KananaskisShuttletoNakiskafordownhillskiingframedbysweeping RockyMountainpanoramas Forsomethingmoreserene,takethe shuttletoBoundaryRanchforanostalgicsleighrideordog-cart adventurethroughquietalpinewoods
4:00 p.m. — Après to Evening
ReturntotheVillageforawarmcocktailandabiteatBlacktailBar. Then,freshenupbeforeaneveningattheSpaandTwoTreesBistro orenjoyatwinkle-litVillagePondskatefollowedbyaromanticdinnerat CedarRoom
9:00 p.m. — Nightcap
Settleinbythecracklingfireandtoasts’moresatFiresideMoments,as theVillagesettlesintothequietofmountaintwilight.
