Kananaskis Summer Trail Maps

Kananaskis Country Summer & Winter Trail Maps

Highwood Pass

Experience the Trails of Kananaskis Country On his expedition through the area more than

Dedicated in 1978, this 4,200 km2 recreation area has grown into a place

150 years ago, Captain John Palliser chose the

where people from around the world come to renew their spirit and reconnect

name Kananaskis to describe the river, lakes,

with wilderness. Come and explore the comfortable facilities, such as the

and valley located only half an hour west of

William Watson Lodge and the Canmore Nordic Centre, participate in the

what is now Calgary, Alberta. Since then,

vibrant education and interpretive programs, and discover our continued

Kananaskis Country has become a cherished

commitment to public safety and wildlife management. All of that without

destination for Albertans to spend time with

an admission fee!.

friends and family, to hike, ride, and be active year-round.

However, much of the landscape in the area was changed significantly in 2013. To date, upwards of $100 million has been invested to restore trails,

The evidence of human use of Kananaskis Country dates back over 8000

campgrounds and day-use areas in the Kananaskis region that were damaged

years. The Stoney-Nakoda, Siksika, Blood, and Kootenai First Nations all

during the unprecedented flooding that occurred in June of that year.

have deep connection to this land. Indeed the name Kananaskis was derived from the Cree ‘Kin-e-a-kis’ and it is said to be the name of a warrior who

Much of the restoration has now been completed and Kananaskis Country

survived an axe blow to the head.

is definitely open for your enjoyment. However, some of the trails have been permanently lost and others have been rerouted. For your own safety, please

The mountains here were formed over the past 200 million years as the

refer to the new updated official maps found in this publication.

movement of tectonic plates forced layers of rock to pile, break, and fold into mountains. The rock comes from layers of fossilized sea creatures that lived

Once you arrive in Kananaskis, we’d encourage you to discuss your plans

hundreds of millions of years ago in an inland sea that once covered southern

with the friendly staff in the Kananaskis Visitor Information Centres. While

Alberta. The evidence is seen in ancient coral reefs, oyster beds, and shark

you’re there, ask for a free copy of Experience the Cowboy Trail & Kananaskis

teeth throughout Kananaskis Country. The jagged peaks and u-shaped valleys

Country or purchase a detailed GemTrek map.

are 12,000 year-old reminders of the last ice age, revealed as kilometre-thick, million-year old glaciers melted.

Help preserve K-Country for the next generation and have an enjoyable visit.

Highwood Pass Courtesy of Jim O’Keefe

Table of Content Summer Trails Elbow Valley........................................................................... 4 Kananaskis Valley................................................................... 8 Peter Lougheed Provincial Park........................................... 12 Sheep River Valley................................................................ 16

Winter Trails Mount Shark......................................................................... 20 Peter Lougheed Provincial Park........................................... 24 Peter Lougheed Provincial Park & Kananaskis Valley......... 26 Ribbon Creek....................................................................... 32

Trails For Horseback Riders, Bikers & Hikers

Trails For Hikers

Elbow Valley

Summer Trails

TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

TRAIL

BEAVER FLATS INTERPRETIVE 1.5 km one way

Beaver Lodge picnic area/Beaver Flats Campground

A flat trail running alongside a series of active beaver ponds with an abandoned beaver lodge next to the trail. Signs describe beaver life.

DIAMOND T LOOP 5 km return 120 m/390 ft.

Station Flats staging area

Uphill through pine woods, with a short detour to a foothills lookout.

ELBOW FALLS INTERPRETIVE 1 km return

Elbow Falls picnic area

A short, paved loop that takes you to the viewpoints over Elbow Falls. The upper (left-hand) part of the loop is wheelchair accessible. Signs describe water erosion and management.

FORD CREEK 18 km one way 590 m/1,935 ft.

Little Elbow Recreation Area

A mountain biking and equestrian trail, this trail follows the eastern foot of Nihahi Ridge.

FORD KNOLL 4 km return 235 m/770 ft.

Forgetmenot Pond picnic area

Climb through the trees on the north side of the loop and descend through open meadows with views down the Elbow River valley

ELBOW VALLEY 10 km one way 365 m/1,200 ft.

Station Flats staging area, Paddy’s Flat Campground, Elbow River Boat Launch, Elbow Falls, Powderface picnic areas

Roughly paralleling the highway, the trail winds up and down through forests and meadows. It forms popular loops with Sulphur Springs Trail or Riverview Trail. A ford across Canyon Creek is required.

LITTLE ELBOW 23 km one way 400 m/1,310 ft.

Little Elbow Recreation Area

Half of the popular Elbow Loop, the Little Elbow Trail is an old fireroad that follows west and south along the Little Elbow River, over Tombstone Pass to Tombstone backcountry campground. Views of Mounts Romulus, Remus, Glasgow & Tombstone.

MOOSE MOUNTAIN 7.3 km one way 470 m/1540 ft.

End of Moose Mt. Road

An old fireroad that follows Moose Ridge and switchbacks up Moose Dome. The final kilometre to the lookout is a steep, singletrack trail on loose rock.

NIHAHI CREEK 2.4 km one way 240 m/790 ft.

Little Elbow Trail

Follow beside and above the creek behind Nihahi Ridge. When the packed-dirt trail exits onto the dry upper creek bed, a sharp left downstream leads hikers to the Nihahi Creek Canyon with its water-polished rock walls. Hikers can follow the canyon for a kilometre before having to retrace steps.

POWDERFACE CREEK 6.2 km one way 510 m/1,673 ft.

Powderface staging area

This trail follows Powderface Creek up its narrow valley to the Three-trail Pass. The eastern half of the trail is gently rolling, but steeper, rockier terrain is encountered further west.

POWDERFACE RIDGE 7 km one way 640 m/2,100 ft.

End of Highway #66 or Three-trail Pass

A strenuous climb from either end, with great views and flower-filled meadows at the top.

PRAIRIE CREEK 9.2 km one way 180 m/590 ft.

Beaver Lodge parking lot, Powderface staging area or Powderface Road

The first two kilometres of this trail climb the edge of a cool, shaded canyon. Once over the promontory over the creek, the trail drops down and follows a series of beaver ponds and wide meadows. This trail can be muddy.

PRAIRIE LINK 3 km one way 85 m/280 ft.

Powderface Creek or Prairie Creek Trails

This is a cut-off between Powderface Creek and Prairie Creek Trails, shortening a 24 kilometre loop to 11. The trail climbs through forest over the saddle between the two trails.

SULPHUR SPRINGS 5.2 km one way 215 m/705 ft.

Elbow Valley Trail, Moose Mountain Road

The west end of the trail climbs along the escarpment over Canyon Creek through aspen stands, then the trail winds through spruce forest down to the east junction with Elbow Valley Trail.

TRAIL CREEK 2.5 km one way 275 m/900 ft.

Ford Creek Trail.

Powderface Road, Three-trail Pass

A connector between Ford Creek Trail, the gravel road and the Powderface Trails (creek and ridge). East of the highway, it climbs steadily through forest to the Threetrail Pass, offering views of Nihahi and Compression Ridges to the west.

WILDHORSE 16 km one way 357 m/1,170 ft.

Little Elbow Recreation Area, Cobble Flats picnic area

Access to this trail requires fording the Elbow River. From the ford at Big Elbow, the trail follows around the north side of Forgetmenot Ridge, then up the valley to the east. Mountain bikers link this trail with the Quirk Creek fireroad through the offhighway vehicle zone.

FULLERTON LOOP 7 km return 213 m/692 ft.

Allen Bill day use area

LITTLE ELBOW INTERPRETIVE 2.5 km one way

Forgetmenot Pond picnic area, Little Elbow picnic area

From Forgetmenot Pond, the trail takes strollers through the picnic area to the Little Elbow River, and follows upstream to the end of Little Elbow Campground. Signs describe river ecology.

MCLEAN CREEK INTERPRETIVE 1.2 km return

McLean Creek amphitheatre

A short stroll through pine and spruce forest, wetlands and meadows.

NIHAHI RIDGE 2.5 km one way 390 m/1,280 ft.

Little Elbow Trail, 0.5 km west of campground

Switchbacks up to the shoulder of Nihahi Ridge, a quick dive across the open saddle and then straight up the ridge edge. Great views east down the Elbow River Valley and west up the Little Elbow River Valley.

PADDY’S FLAT INTERPRETIVE 2.2 km return

Paddy’s Flat Campground

This trail runs from the campground through mixed woods down to the river and back up to the campground. Riverview Trail is accessed off the west end of the interpretive trail. Brochure describes ecology of Elbow River Valley.

TOMBSTONE LAKES 2 km one way 180 m/590 ft.

Little Elbow Trail, Tombstone backcountry campground

From the campground, the trail follows up Tombstone Creek to the first of the lakes nestled in the arms of Tombstone Mountain.

Access to the upper lake is along the north side of the lower lake.

You have a choice of getting a workout climbing the ridge edge, or taking the more gradual route up the valley behind. On top of the ridge, there are views to Moose Mountain, west down the valley and south across the Elbow River.

Day Trails For Bikers & Hikers TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

RIVERVIEW 4 km one way 102 m/300 ft.

Paddy’s Flat Loop Trail, Elbow Valley across from Paddy’s Flat Campground turnoff or west of Moose Mountain Road.

This trail meanders through aspen and mixed woods up the escarpment above the Elbow River. Aptly named, this trail has great views of the river canyon. It is also a good wildflower trail.

Trails For Horseback Riders, Bikers & Hikers TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

BIG ELBOW 26.5 km one way 350 m/1,150 ft.

Little Elbow Recreation Area

This is the east half of the well-known Elbow Loop. The old fireroad follows the Elbow River upstream past Big Elbow backcountry campground to Tombstone backcountry campground and trail junctions beyond. Views of Threepoint and Cougar Mountains, Mounts Glasgow and Cornwall, and Banded Peak.

THREEPOINT MOUNTAIN 10 km one way 460 m/1,510 ft.

Big Elbow Trail

After fording the Elbow River, this trail climbs steeply over the pass between Threepoint and Forgetmenot mountains, and down to Threepoint backcountry campground.

TOM SNOW 30 km one way 210 m/700 ft.

Station Flats staging area, Dawson Campground

The main connector trail between the Elbow River Valley and Sibbald Creek Valley, this trail winds through foothills to the east and north around Moose Mountain. Used mainly for mountain biking and equestrian.

ACCESS

REMARKS

The way to Elbow Valley

Elbow Valley Visitor Information Centre 403-949-4261 Service Alberta Call Centre (toll free in Alberta) 310-0000 Kananaskis Country Campgrounds 403-949-3132 Backcountry Camping Permits 403-678-3136

For More Information www.Kananaskis-Country.ca

Emergency If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mountain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

Cover Photo: Hiking the upper reaches of the Elbow River — Eric Kuhn ISBN: 0-7785-1166-9

Pub. No.: I/844

Printed May 2015

Map #3

Powderface Trail (Road)

Little Elbow Recreation Area

N

To Ford Knoll (Loop)

To Ford Creek

Ford Knoll (Loop)

Scale: 1 : 20,000

0.2

200 m

Powderface Trail (Road)

Ford Knoll (Loop)

0.7

To Moose Mountain Fire Lookout

Scale: 1 : 60,000

To Powderface Ridge

750 m Contour Interval: 60 m

0.6 Ford Knoll 1.1

Loop B Loop A Loop E

Horse Stalls

Loop D

0.1 0.1

To Nihahi Creek, Nihahi Ridge & Little Elbow

0.2

Loop C

0.3

0.3

Forgetmenot Pond

0.4 0.18

0.3

Elbow River

Little Elbow River

0.1

0.2

Moose Dome Creek

3.5

Canyon Creek

Wildhorse

Warning Trail to ice cave not recommended due to dangerous rock conditions

Trail Creek

1.3

Big Elbow

Prairie Creek

Ford Creek

idge

2.9

2.5

Powderface Creek

hi R

3.4

Prairie Creek

Powderface Creek

Little Elbow

Powderface Trail (Road)

Ford Creek

2.5

2.2 1.0

Little Elbow River

0.7

Ford Knoll

0.4 0.8

See Sheep Valley Trails Map for Elbow Loop Trails Details

Little Elbow Big Elbow

Elbow River

Cobble Flats

Wildhorse

4.6

2.5

Wildhorse Creek

Elbow River

Sulphur Springs 4.3

Rainy Creek

Beaver Flats

Elbow River

Elbow Falls

Elbow Valley

Elbow River Launch

P

Winter Gate Road Closed Dec. 1 - May 14 incl.

Riverview

0.6

Forgetmenot Pond

Dia

Elbow Valley

Beaver Lodge

Elbow Falls Trail (road)

Canyon Creek

Winter Gate Road Closed Dec. 1 - May 14 incl.

Beaver Flats

66

1.1

3.0

7.0

ce

Ford Creek

Powderface

Rid ge

Powderface Ridge

See map #3 for details of Little Elbow Recreation Area

Nihahi Ridge

Canyon Creek Road

2.8

wd erf a

Little Elbow

Moose Mountain Road

5.7

Powderface Creek

Po

2.4

Niha

Nihahi Creek

Prairie Mountain 2210 m

Prairie Creek

Prairie Link

9.7

Nihahi Creek

Ranger Creek

Canyon Creek Road

Prairie Creek Forgetmenot Pond

Cmpgd. Registration

Suspension Bridge

Elbow Falls Trail (Road)

Ford 0.2 Creek Trail 3.2

0.3

0.5 1.0

N

Ford Creek

3.6

Sylvester Creek

Always go prepared Take along a basic survival kit: flashlight, map, first-aid kit, extra food, clothing, whistle, and raingear.

Remember, the weather can change at a moment’s notice.

Paddy’s Flat

M St

McL

*Not recommended for summer use due Telephone Loop to wet sections 5.8

Sense of Place Sense of Taste

Tom Snow

Tom Snow 2.6 M 1. oo 9 se

r

Long Distance 4.9

Merlin View 6.3

Lo

Moose Loop 1.9

Telephone Reconnect Loop 2.6 1.5 Long Distance 1.0 Demi-Tel 0.7 1.6 Telephone Telephone Loop 1.4 Loop 0.6 Long 0.9 0.2 0.4 Distance Bragging 2.9 Moose Moose Rights Connector Connector 2.2 0.6 0.7 0.7

op

Tom Snow

West Crystal Line 0.9

Ridgeback

Tom Snow

Ridgeback 2.9

0.3

0.1 0.5

Logger’s Loop 1.0 Ranger Summit 1.8 Ranger Summit 0.8

Ranger Summit 0.6

0.7

0.4

1.1

0.3

0.2 0.5 Sundog Loop 0.7

0.9

0.6

Strange Brew 2.8

Ranger Summit 1.2

Diamond T Loop 1.3

McLean taging Area

Lean Creek

2.0

Elbow 0.8

River Cove

Elbow River

Allen Bill Pond

2.1

Elbow 0.9

Elbow 1.2

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Iron Springs Iron 1.5 Creek

0.5

Iron Springs 0.8 Snagmore 4.4

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Elbow River

Winter Gate Road Closed McLean Dec. 1 - April 30

Pond

McLean Pond

Ro

0.3

McLean Creek Camping Centre

McLean Creek

p

Boundary Ridge 3.5

0.1

0.3

hi

Private Bookings Available. Contact either Julie or Renee

0.3

Station Flats Allen Bill

ns

2

Elbow 2.1

Fullerton Loop Tom Ranger Snow Creek 1.5

amond T Loop 2.6

Bragg Creek To w

Iron Springs 1.8

0.3 Ridgeback 1.9

1.6

Boundary Ridge 0.5 0.8

Elbow 0.4

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Hostel Telephone Loop Loop 1.2 0.9 0.8

Moose Connector 0.8

Ranger Creek

Kananaskis Country Boundary

Gooseberry

Camp Horizon

Connop Creek

Elbow Valley Visitor Information Centre

Elbow Falls Trail (road)

66 To Hwy. 22X

ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Day Trails For Hikers

Day Trails For Bikers & Hikers

Kananaskis Valley

Summer Trails

ISBN: 0-7732-5137-5

Pub. No.: I/651

Printed May 2015

TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

BALDY PASS 4 or 6.9 km to pass– 490 m/1592 ft. elevation gain

Porcupine/Baldy Pass Trailhead parking or Wasootch parking

An easy trail; then steep through trees to a good view at the pass. Bike carry required.

Colonel’s Cabin at U. of C., Kananaskis Field Station

An easy trail with two loops and viewpoints. Signs explain local environment and forestry.

BOW VALLEY Park Bike Path 4.4 km one way

Bow Valley Park Visitor Centre or Bow Valley Campground road

Rolling terrain with forest and meadows.

Good views. Paved trail.

BARRIER LAKE FORESTRY INTERPRETIVE TRAILS 2.3 km return BARRIER LAKE INTERPRETIVE 1.5 km one way

Barrier Lake Day Use (upper or lower)

A short, uphill hike to a ridge, giving excellent views of Barrier Lake and Kananaskis Valley.

EVAN-THOMAS 1.7 km one way

Evan-Thomas Trailhead Kananaskis Village, Wedge Pond, Mt. Kidd RV Park or Kovach Pond

BOW RIVER INTERPRETIVE 2.5 km one way

Bow Valley Campground or Whitefish Day Use

BILL MILNE PAVED BIKE PATH 9.7 km one way

A forested trail linking to the Wedge Connector.

This paved path goes from the village, along Ribbon Creek, passes near the golf course and Mt. Kidd RV Park to Wedge Pond.

A scenic trail following the Bow River.

Angling opportunities. Signs describe the river environment.

HIDDEN/COAL MINE 2 or 2.4 km– 246 m/800 ft. elevation gain

Ribbon Creek parking lot

A forested route to the site of a coal mine which operated from 1947 to 1952. This site is reclaimed but offers great views.

CENTENNIAL RIDGE 6.4 km to summit, 16.9 km to Hwy. #1– 1340 m/4400 ft.

Ribbon Creek parking (take Hidden Trail for .2 km) or Banff Gate Mtn. Resort from Hwy. #1

A steep trail over the top of Mt. Allan with panoramic views. Allow 4-6 hours to summit (2819 m/9249 ft.) 6-9 hours for total length of trail. Difficult.

Barrier Dam Day Use

Cross the dam and follow Stoney Trail south to the turnoff. The trail goes by secluded Jewell Falls. Beautiful views of Barrier Lake.

EAU CLAIRE INTERPRETIVE 1.5 km return

Eau Claire Campground

JEWELL PASS 2.5 km one way– 250 m/812 ft. elevation gain 7.1 km from dam

An easy trail along the Kananaskis River.

ELK FLATS 1.9 km one way

Moraine Trail, Many Springs Trailhead or Elk Flats Day Use

Trail has forest and meadows with views.

PRAIRIE VIEW 5.9 km one way– 421 m/1368 ft. elevation gain

Barrier Dam Day Use

This trail switchbacks through the trees to a spectacular viewpoint and on to traverse a plateau before the downhill to Jewell Pass. Bike carry required.

FLOWING WATER INTERPRETIVE 2 km loop

Willow Rock Campground

QUAITE VALLEY 5.7 km one way

Heart Creek Trailhead/ Barrier Dam Day Use

A pleasant trail to Quaite Valley backcountry campground.

GALATEA CREEK 6.3 km to Lillian Lake– 457 m/1500 ft.

Galatea parking lot

RIBBON CREEK/ LINK/KOVACH/ TERRACE LOOP 5.1 km return

Ribbon Creek parking lot

Scenic views of Ribbon Creek and Mt. Bogart, an ancient forest, a new forest and a fun run on a mountain bike.

Good views of the mountain and Kananaskis River. Observation deck over beaver pond. Signs describe water cycle.

A strenuous day hike past canyons and waterfalls with great views. Lillian Lake is nestled in the trees. 1.5 km further to the Upper Galatea Lake.

GROTTO CREEK 1.9 km one way

Grotto Mountain Day Use on Hwy. #1A

SKOGAN PASS 10.2 km to pass, 19.4 km to Hwy. #1– 624 m/2050 ft. elevation gain

Ribbon Creek or Banff Gate Mountain Resort

Trail initially follows a small powerline, passes Baymag Plant and winds up a narrow canyon with vertical rock walls and a waterfall.

Off Lac des Arcs overpass on Hwy. #1

Trail follows the narrow creek canyon over 7 bridges to a hidden waterfall.

SKOGAN/MARMOT BASIN ROUTE 4.9 km one way– 620 m/1040 ft. elevation gain

Ribbon Creek Day Use

Views of the Kananaskis Valley and the cliffs along Marmot Creek, ending in an old, lichen draped forest.

HEART CREEK INTERPRETIVE 2 km one way

From Heart Creek Trail, see above.

Difficult

Climbs steeply up Heart Mountain for superb views of the Bow Valley and Heart Creek Valley.

SKOGAN/ RUTHIE'S/TROLL FALLS/HAY MEADOW LOOP 4 km return

Ribbon Creek Day Use

Kananaskis Valley viewpoints along Skogan Pass Trail. Troll Falls is secluded.

Hay Meadow passes by the Kananaskis River.

HEART MOUNTAIN 2.8 km one way 745 m/2450 ft.

MANY SPRINGS INTERPRETIVE 1.6 km loop

Many Springs Trailhead in Bow Valley Provincial Park

Trail encircles a wetland basin with uncommon plants; observation deck over boil springs. Signs describe environment.

SKOGAN/ SUNBURST/HIGH LEVEL LOOP 12.7 km return– 400 m/1300 ft. elevation gain

Ribbon Creek Day Use

A wonderful loop hike combining all three trails. Wonderful views throughout, especially at the top of Sunburst Trail.

MIDDLE LAKE INTERPRETIVE 2.5 km loop

Middle Lake in Bow Valley Provincial Park

Meanders through forest and meadows, skirts Middle Lake.

MONTANE INTERPRETIVE 2.2 km loop

Bow Valley Park Visitor Centre

A gentle trail through forest and meadows. Signs describe montane forest community.

TERRACE/ KOVACH/ASPEN LOOP 7.4 km return– 100 m/325 ft. elevation gain

Kananaskis Village

MORAINE INTERPRETIVE 1.5 km one way

Middle Lake or Bow Valley Campground

Scenic mountain views. The trail follows the crest of a glacial ridge.

Signs describe glacial features.

Mt. Kidd RV Park

TERRACE (SOUTH) 9.5 km one way

Kananaskis Village

Views of the Kananaskis Valley, golf course and Mt. Kidd.

MOUNT KIDD INTERPRETIVE 1.2 km return

A short trail giving access to the Kananaskis River and onto on island.

Signs describe water power.

Kananaskis Village

A forested trail with occasional views.

RIBBON CREEK 8.1 km to falls/10.1 km to lake–350 m/1137 ft.

Ribbon Creek parking lot

TERRACE/ TERRACE LINK LOOP 3 km return

A spectacular valley hike hemmed in by massive cliffs on Mt. Kidd & Mt. Bogart. Ribbon Falls is at the backcountry campground. Mountain bikes permissible for 5 km. Bike rack available.

WASOOTCH CREEK 1 km one way

Wasootch Trailhead

A pleasant valley walk leading to the wasootch climbing slabs.

WEDGE POND 1 km return

Wedge Pond Day Use

A pleasant lakeshore walk with changing views.

WEDGE CONNECTOR 2.4 km one way

Wedge Pond to Bill Milne Paved Path

A forested trail to an open glade by Evan-Thomas Creek—mountain views.

WIDOWMAKER 2 km one way

Widowmaker D. U., Barrier Lake VIC or Canoe Meadows D. Use

A trail along the edge of the Kananaskis River which gives views of the canoeists, kayakers and rafters on the river.

A scenic route over Skogan Pass.

Various forest types, flowers and spectacular views.

Views of the Kananaskis Valley with two picnic spots at great viewpoints.

Kananaskis Village

Overnight Trails For Hikers TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

GALATEA CREEK 6.5 km to Lillian Lake–457 m/1500 ft.

1.5 km more to Upper Galatea 154 m/500 ft.

Galatea parking lot

See Day Hikes section. Camping at Lillian Lake. Trail rises steeply for 1.5 km to the Upper Galatea Lake in a spectacular alpine cirque.

GUINN’S PASS 3.0 km one way 457 m/1500 ft.

From Ribbon Lake or Galatea Creek trails

This spectacular trail connects Ribbon Lake and Lillian Lake backcountry campgrounds.

Outstanding views.

QUAITE VALLEY 5.7 km (3.7 km to camp from Heart Creek Trailhead)

Heart Creek Trailhead or Barrier Dam Day Use

A pleasant trail to Quaite Valley backcountry campground.

RIBBON FALLS/ LAKE 8.1 km to falls one way–350 m/1137 ft. and 10.1 km to lake one way–594 m/1930 ft.

Ribbon Creek parking lot

See Ribbon Falls day hike. From the falls a steep hike to the cliff with two chains which must be negotiated to reach the lake.

Trails For Horseback Riders, Bikers & Hikers TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

EVAN-THOMAS 14 km to pass one way

Evan-Thomas Trailhead

An unmaintained extension of the 1.7 km Evan-Thomas trail. A long way in the trees, then open views and creek crossings. Spectacular at and near the pass.

STONEY/ RUTHIE’S/ SKOGAN PASS 18.4 km one way, 624 m/2050 ft.

Stoney parking or Banff Gate Mountain Resort

A steady uphill climb. Spectacular views. Goes over the top of Skogan Pass.

STONEY 21.3 km one way

Stoney parking lot, Barrier Dam Day Use or Grouse/ Owl Group Camp

A long, open trail following the powerline. Equestrian camping at Jewell Bay

Emergency

•

•

•

•

RIBBON FALLS* RIBBON LAKE* JEWELL BAY EQUEST.*

•

• • • •

• • • •

• • • •

• • • •

• • •

MTN. BIKING TRAILS

PACKRACK/LOCKER

•

FISHING

FIREPIT/FIREWOOD

LILLIAN LAKE*

TOILETS

QUAITE VALLEY

WATER

Backcountry Campgrounds Facilities *Seasonal Closure

PICNIC TABLES

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mountain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

•

•

For More Information www.Kananaskis-Country.ca Kananaskis Information Centre (Barrier Lake) . . . . . . . . . 403-673-3985 Service Alberta Call Centre (toll free in Alberta) . . . . . . . . . . . . 310-0000 Groups Campgrounds Reservations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-673-2163 Backcountry Camping Permits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-678-3136

The way to Kananaskis Valley

Backcountry permits are required at all designated backcountry campgrounds in Kananaskis Country.

Permit information is available at any Kananaskis Country Information Centre. The backcountry reservation line is 403-678-3136.

Backcountry Permits

Every effort is made to ensure that these maps are as accurate and comprehensive as possible but information is subject to change without notice.

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

Summer Trails

Discover the adventure that awaits you in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park.

The interpretive trails will reveal the natural and cultural histories of the Kananaskis area. The hiking and mountain biking trails will provide you with hundreds of kilometres of spectacular scenery.

There are paved trails for the novice mountain biker and hiker, and rugged wilderness trails for the experienced backcountry enthusiast.

Enjoy your day hike or backpacking trip and please stay on the trails for your own safety and for the protection of the park environment.

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is managed as a Natural Heritage Site within Alberta’s network of recreation and protected areas. This ensures that its provincially significant natural, cultural, and historical resources are protected, while providing quality recreational and educational experiences for visitors.

Hikers

Day hikes or longer backpacking trips will take visitors into more remote areas of the park. Overnight hikers can choose from five backcountry campgrounds when planning their trip.

Certain hiking trails also provide access to Banff National Park, as well as Elk Lakes Provincial Park and the Height of the Rockies Provincial Park in British Columbia. The Park Visitor Centre can provide up-to-date information and can be reached at 403-591-6322.

Cyclists

The park offers cyclists more than 12 km of paved trails. In addition, mountain bikers will find a number of challenging unpaved trails open for their use. Many other trails are not constructed to accommodate mountain bikes. Please check map and trail descriptions before setting out on your trip.

Equestrian

The Elbow Lake trail is the park’s only equestrian trail. This trail is also open to hikers and mountain bikers. It connects with numerous trails in the Elbow and Sheep areas of Kananaskis Country.

Emergency

Trails For Mountain Bikers & Hikers TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

BURSTALL PASS 7.4 km one way 470 m/1550 ft. elevation gain

Burstall Pass day use on the SmithDorrien/ Spray Trail

This trail takes you through forests and willow flats, then climbs steeply to alpine meadows and Burstall Pass.

Flowing water may cover the trail through the willow flats. Bikes are allowed to the end of the old logging road only (2.7 km). DAY USE ONLY

CHESTER LAKE 4.6 km one way 300 m/1000 ft. elevation gain

Chester Lake parking lot on the Smith-Dorrien/ Spray Trail

This forested trail leads to an alpine meadow and lake below Mt. Chester.

Bikes are allowed only on the first 2 km of the trail which follows a logging road.

DAY USE ONLY

ELBOW LAKE 1.4 km one way 120 m/400 ft.

Elbow Pass Junction picnic area on Hwy. #40

This is a steep forested trail (old road) to Elbow Lake and the campground.

It provides access to excellent biking trails in Kananaskis Country East. This is the only trail in the Park which allows equestrian use. Watch for horses on the trail.

ELK PASS 6.1 km one way 210 m/700 ft. elevation gain

Elk Pass parking lot

The Elk Pass Trail climbs to the pass on an old fire road. You have the option to continue into BC. and Elk Lakes Provincial Park. Elk Lakes headquarters is 6 km from the Alberta/BC border.

Bikes are not permitted in Elk Lakes P.P.

LOOKOUT 2.4 km one way 200 m/650 ft. elevation gain

Junction of Whiskey Jack and Pocaterra Trails

This trail takes you up to the Fire Lookout and a panoramic view of the area.

PAVED BICYCLE TRAILS

Campgrounds and Park Visitor Centre refer to map

Lodgepole, Wheeler and Lakeside Trails form 12 km of paved trails that connect most of the campgrounds in the park.

POCATERRA 7.9 km one way 250 m/950ft. elevation gain

Pocaterra Hut parking lot

This trail goes through open meadows and forested areas; has dramatic views of Mt. Wintour and the Opal Range.

Connects with Lookout, Whiskey Jack and Rolly Road Trails as well as Hwy. #40.

ROLLY ROAD 1.9 km one way

Pocaterra Hut parking lot

This trail climbs steeply from the parking lot area, then descends gradually to Pocaterra Trail 1.9 km further. It provides a nice view of the Spray Range. Watch for occasional vehicles on the road.

SMITHDORRIEN MTN. BIKING TRAIL SYSTEM

Chester Lake parking lot and Sawmill pinic area

This challenging system of trails is a series of old logging roads with steep climbs and swift descents.

DAY USE ONLY & UN-MAINTAINED.

THREE ISLE LAKE TRAIL to Point Campground 3.6 km one way

North Interlakes picnic area

Follow the Three Isle Lake Trail for 2.2 km then join Upper Lake Trail for 1.4 km to Point Campground. It has a rocky section where it crosses the Palliser rockslide. Bikes are not allowed beyond Point Campground.

WHISKEY JACK 4.5 km one way 210 m/700 ft. elevation gain

Boulton Creek Trading Post parking lot

This trail connects with Lookout and Pocaterra Trails. It is a rough descent because of drainage channels cut across the trail. There are also steep sections. Combined with Pocaterra Trail, this is an excellent biking route.

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mountain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

For More Information Park Visitor Information Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-591-6322 Service Alberta Call Centre (toll free in Alberta) . . . . . . . . . . . . 310-0000 Campground Reservations Auto Access Boulton Creek & Elkwood. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-877-537-2757 Or visit www.reserve.albertaparks.ca to book online Group Campgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-591-7226 ISBN: 0-7785-1166-9

Pub. No.: I/844

Printed May 2015

Day Hikes (No Bikes Permitted)

Backcountry Campgrounds—Permit Required

TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

CAMPGROUND

ACCESS/REMARKS

1982 CANADIAN MOUNT EVEREST EXPEDITION 2.1 km loop

White Spruce parking lot 120 m/400 ft. elevation gain

This is a short climb through mature forest to a high lookout point between the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes.

ELBOW LAKE (seasonal closure)

1.3 km via Elbow Lake Trail from Elbow Pass Day Use. (125 m elevation). No equestrian camping. 15 sites. Picnic tables, water, toilets, firepit/firewood, 12 storage lockers.

POINT

BLACK PRINCE CIRQUE 4.2 km loop

Smith-Dorrien/Spray Trail 90 m/300 ft. elevation gain.

This trail climbs to a seasonally variable cirque lake through forested and open areas. The first section follows an old logging road.

3.4 km via Upper Kananaskis Lake Circuit from North Interlakes Day Use. (25 m elevation). On Upper Kananaskis Lake. 20 sites. Picnic tables, water, toilets, firepit/firewood, 16 storage lockers.

FORKS

7.3 km via Upper Kananaskis Lake Circuit/Three Isle Lake Trail from North Interlakes Day Use. (100 m elevation). On Upper Kananaskis River. 15 sites. Picnic tables, water, toilets, firepit/firewood, 16 storage lockers.

BOULTON CREEK 4.9 km loop

Boulton Creek Bridge picnic area

This trail takes a short climb to Boulton Creek Cabin then follows a ridge for a view of the mountains to the south and west, then returns along the creek.

THREE ISLE

10.3 km via Upper Kananaskis Lake Circuit/Three Isle Lake Trail from North Interlakes Day Use. (500 m elevation). Steep headwall.

Continues to South Kananaskis Pass, BC. 16 sites. Picnic tables, water, toilets,16 storage lockers.

HIGHWOOD MEADOWS 0.6 km one way

Highwood Meadows parking lot on Hwy. #40

This short trail follows, at times, a boardwalk through a fragile alpine meadow. Barrier-free.

TURBINE CANYON

15.1 km via Upper Kananaskis Lake Circuit/Three Isle Lake Trail/ Maude-Lawson Trail from North Interlakes Day Use. (500 m elevation). Continues to Maude Lake and North Kananaskis Pass, BC. 12 sites. Picnic tables, water, toilets,12 storage lockers.

KANANASKIS CANYON 0.8 km loop

Canyon Campground near entrance of Loop B

This trail winds its way through pine forests to the old Kananaskis River Canyon. The trail returns on the old riverbed along walkways and stairs.

ASTER LAKE

10.8 km via Upper Kananaskis Lake Circuit/Aster Lake Route from Upper Lake Day Use (550 m elevation). 5 sites. Water, toilets, 8 storage lockers.

William Watson Lodge or Canyon picnic area

This is an enjoyable lakeside walk with views of the Spray Range.

MARL LAKE 1.5 km loop

Elkwood Amphitheatre parking lot, or Elkwood Campground

This trail winds its way through forest and wetland to Marl Lake. Due to steepness of grades and distance we recommend a companion for wheelchair users of this barrier-free trail.

PTARMIGAN CIRQUE 4.5 km loop 210 m/700 ft.

Highwood Meadows parking lot on Hwy. #40

This steep trail leads you to a fragile alpine meadow and a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains.

Fragile environment, stay on the trail.

RAWSON LAKE 3.9 km one way 320 m/1050 ft.

Upper Lake picnic area

After leaving Upper Lake Trail, it is a long, steady climb through a subalpine forest. The trail terminates at a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by mountain peaks and alpine meadows. Check current regulations for fishing closures. DAY USE ONLY

ROCK GLACIER 150 m one way

Pull off on Hwy. #40

A short stop at an unusual rock formation.

ROCKWALL 0.5 km loop

Park Visitor Centre

This paved path leads to a lookout point that overlooks Rockwall fen and the Opal Range. Barrier-free.

SPRUCE ROAD 1 km loop

William Watson Lodge

This paved path leads through pine and spruce forests. An audiotape guide is available from the William Watson Lodge. Barrier-free.

UPPER LAKE 15.7 km loop

Upper Lake or North Interlakes picnic area

The south shore of this lakeside trail passes Sarrail Falls, through stands of spruce and fir. On the north side, the trail crosses the Palliser rockslide, on the way to Point Campground.

This trail circumnavigates Upper Kananaskis Lake and takes in Lower Kananaskis Falls.

Every effort is made to ensure that the information is as accurate and comprehensive as possible but it is subject to change without notice

The way to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

LOWER LAKE 3.5 km one way

Backcountry Permits

Backcountry permits are required at all designated backcountry campgrounds in Kananaskis Country. Permit information is available at any Kananaskis Country Information Centre.

The backcountry reservation line is 403-678-3136.

French Mount Glacier French 3,234 m

2700

To Burstall Pass and Chester Lake Trailheads 12 km

742

SmithDorrien Glacier SmithDorrien Creek

Smith-Dorrien/ Spray Trail (gravel road)

Mount Jellicoe 3,246 m Haig Glacier

00

18

Warspite Lake

2.8 km 1.4 km Black Prince Cirque

Winsport Canada Ski Camp

Black Prince

Mount Maude 3,042 m North Kananaskis Pass 2,368 m

Mount Black Prince 2,932 m

Turbine Canyon Maude Lake 2.1

Leroy Creek

British Columbia

Turbine Canyon

Maude Brook

Brook Creek

Alberta Park Patrol Cabin

Height of the Rockies Provincial Mount Beatty Park 2,999 m (BC)

Lawson Lake

Mount Warspite Warspite 2,850 m 24

00

Upper Kananaskis River

Beatty Glacier

Mo Invin 2,73

00

0

7.7

27 00

00

210

21

27

Invincible Lake

Maude-Lawson

1800

00

24

Beatty Lake

Beatty Creek

2100

Smith-Dorrien Area

24

00

Mount Putnik 2,940 m South Kananaskis Pass 2,306 m

Three Isle Lake 5.0

Three Isle Lake

2.8

Forks

Three Isle Lake

Lower Kananaskis Falls

Three Isle Creek

240

0

240

Park Patrol Cabin

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

210

Every effort is made to ensure that these maps are as accurate and comprehensive as possible but information is subject to change without notice

3.5

Mount Worthington 2,838 m

0

Mount McHarg 2,888 m

Upper Kananaskis Falls

Three Isle Lake

Undergro

0

Lyautey Glacier 240

Mount Lyautey 3,082m 27

0

Defender Mountain

00

British Columbia

00

Northover Glacier 27

0

8 13

Onslow Mountain

Alberta

Mount Northover 3,003 m

Fossil Falls

Foch Pond Aster Creek Aster Lake

Park

Foc Cre

2400

40 0 186

King Creek

00

Kananaskis Canyon

1.1

0.8

Dam

0.5

Peninsula

3.5 Lower Lake

1800

Canyon

Tombstone Lakes

2400

Pocaterra

GROUPS

Kananaskis Trail (road)

Tombstone

Opal Creek

2.0

2400

Opal Falls

2.0

210

0

Elpoca Viewpoint

Elkwood Spruce Road

ount ncible 30 m

Pocaterra Creek Elkwood

0.5

William Watson Lodge

Lower Kananaskis Lake

00

24

Mount Indefatigable 2,670 m

Pocaterra 6.8

Valleyview

Marl Lake

Big Elbow

Gap Mountain 2,675 m

Wheeler

Kananaskis Lakes Trail

Little Highwood Pass

21

00

Boulton Creek Trading Post

1800

0.4

Elbow Pass

Pocaterra Creek

e

Whiskey Jack

Panorama

4.5

Lakeside

Boulton Bridge

1800

00

Rock Glacier

1982 Canadian Mt. Everest Expedition

Fire Lookout

White Spruce

Elk Pass

1.2

4.0

Ptarmigan Cirque 2.1 2.4

Upper Lake

2.7

N

Scale: 1 : 77,000 1 km

Sarrail Creek

Contour Interval: 60 m

Rawson Lake 00

Little Highwood Pass

Highwood Meadows

Fox Creek

0.6

1.1

Highwood Meadows

nexT Time, go a liTTle farTher.

Register for one of our guided BACKPACKING trips: ucalgary.ca/outdoorcentre

1.4

Elk Pass

0.5

Fox Lake

West Elk Pass 1,905 m

East Elk Pass

Mount Tyrwhitt 2,874 m 0

Elk Lakes Provincial Park (BC)

270

Mount Sarrail 3,174 m

Boulton Creek

4.7

0

00

21

27

ch eek

0.15

Dam

Rawson Lake

h d

k Patrol Cabin

Rockfall Lake

Lookout

0

Upper Lake

(intermittent)

Boulton Creek

210

Hidden Lake

3.0

0.2

40

ound

17

Upper Kananaskis Lake

3.8

2.1

2.4

21

Upper Lake

Point

Mount Rae 3,218 m

1860

1.9

Interlakes 2.4

40

4.5

Mt. Sarrail

North Interlakes

0

1.5

1.2

Elbow Lake

1.9

0.4

228

Upper Lake

Dam

0.5

1800

240

1.3

Elbow Lake

1.4

Boulton Creek

Rae Lake

2100

Spotted Wolf Creek

4.6

Lower Lake

3.5

17

1.8 1.5

Elbow River

Elpoca Mountain 3,029 m

Elpoca Creek

40

Sheep

Piper Creek

Gate Bill Benson

3.5

3.6 Little Elbow

Tombstone Mountain 3,055 m

Visitor Information Centre

Lodgepole

Canyon

Mount Wintour

0.5 Rockwall

0.5

Canyon

Mount Jerram 2,996 m

Pocaterra Hut

1.9

00

24

Little Elbow

2700

18

Rolly Road

Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park

Mount Burney 2,934 m

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

Kananaskis Lakes Trail

Spillway Lake (Loon Lake)

0

Kananaskis Trail (road)

South Fork Creek

900

King Closed Creek Dec. 1- June 14 in clusive

Kent Creek

0.2

Talus Lake

2100

Mount Blane 2,993 m

PRoGRAms programs||TRIPs Trips||ReNTAls renTals

Trails For Horseback Riders, Bikers & Hikers

150 m/500 ft. elevation gain

elevation gain

FORAN GRADE 3.2 km one way 240 m/800 ft. elevation gain

Foran Grade parking lot east of Sheep Wildlife Sanctuary

Best hiked from east to west, this ridge climb has excellent views of the Sheep Valley and Windy Point. An easy 8 km loop by descending Windy Point Trail and returning to trailhead via Sheep Trail.

GORGE CREEK 11.8 km one way 410 m/1350 ft. elevation gain

Gorge Creek parking lot

A scenic trail along Gorge Creek with difficult sections west of Bluerock Creek.

Combine with Volcano Ridge and Volcano Creek Trails for 23 km loop, or with Bluerock and Indian Oils, 23 km.

GREEN MOUNTAIN 10.9 km one way 260 m/850 ft. elevation gain

0.5 km past junction of Junction Mountain and Sheep Trails

A gently rolling trail over a low pass.

Wildflower meadows near east end.

INDIAN OILS 8.6 km one way 400 m/1300 ft. elevation gain

Indian Oils, or Sheep River Falls picnic areas

Pleasant, but strenuous hike with excellent views. Combine with Gorge Creek and South Gorge Creek Trails for 18 km loop.

JUNCTION MOUNTAIN 13.5 km one way 790 m/2600 ft. elevation gain

5.0 km up Sheep Trail from Indian Oils picnic area

A scenic trail following the Sheep River.

Angling opportunities. Signs describe the river environment.

MIST CREEK n 13.2 km oneoway 1555 m/1800 ft. elevation gain

10 km up Sheep

A steep, mostly forested trail crossing

Trail, west to z a scenic evael d na1.3tkm ca pmi rucreeks oy e iminview imat Rickert's esaePass. lP of Junction Creek Hwy. #40 can be reached by continuing ...ecart Day Use south.

Price Camp, Green This trail passes through beautiful meadows.

MOUNT MCNABB 6.5 km one way sa tsuj s’ti eruMountain, sneTrails ot dornaPhone yrenecs ehCan t fobetnmuddy. emyojne ruoy ecnahne oT Line 310 m/1000 ft. elevation on egain vael dna tcapmi ruoy eziminim esaelp ,tisiv uoy emit txen eht lufituaeb NORTH FORK 5.4 km one way 240 m/800 ft. elevation gain

Threepoint :seCreek icilopTrail, dna or Ware Creek Trail

snoThis italtrail ugeprovides r krap nice gniwviews ollofofyVolcano b ecart Ridge and the Ware Creek Valley.

.skcabhctiws no stuctrohs ekat ton od ;sliart no yatS • Extremely boggy in wet years. Mostly Junction with Sheep emitoflla ta hforested. sael a no step peeK • Trail, west or.ssouth .stcSandy ejbo lMcNabb arutan evomer ro srewolf kcip ton oD • u o y r e t t i l l a n o i t i d d a y n a s a l l e w s a , n i k c a p u o y t a h w t u o k c a P Runs from one end of the Sheep Valley • to Sandy McNabb, SHEEP TRAIL the other. Segments Windy Point, Indian 44.8 km one way .dnif ofyathe m trail are used in combination with other trails.

Oils, Sheep Falls or 720 m/2400 ft. elevation gain retaw a morf seJunction rtem 06Creek tsaepicnic l ta flesruoy eveiler dna hsaW • areas .elbaliava ton era seitilicaf nehw ecruos This trail is primarly used by equestrian Gorge Creek, or Indian SOUTH GORGE .slamina users dliw as ynpart a deofefa tloop. on oMostly D forest; wet • Oils Trails CREEK sections. Great flowers.

5.3 km one way d e t c u r t s n o c e s U . s k r a P l a i c n i v o r P n i d e t t i m r e p t o n e r a s e r i f n e p O • 210 m/700 ft. elevation eragain seitilicaf eseht nehw evots elbatrop ruoy no kooc ro stiperif THREEPOINT .detibihorMesa p si Butte doowerif rof gnignFollows evacSThreepoint .dedivorCreek p tonthrough rolling Campground CREEK foothills.

12.3 km one way .dewolla ton si gnipmac modnaR • PRICE CAMP 5.4 km one way 45 m/140 ft. elevation gain

270 m/900 ft. elevation gain

dThis ertrail apconnects erp the ogElbow syand aw lA Volcano Creek, Gorge THREEPOINT Sheep Creek or Big Elbow MOUNTAIN Valleys and offers excellent mountain views.

Trails 9.8 km one way Ford across Elbow River required.

150 m/500 ft. ,doof artxe ,tik dia-tsrif ,pam ,thgilhsalf :tik lavivrus cisab a gnola ekaT elevation gain a ta egnahc nac rehtaew eht ,rebmemeR .raegniar dna ,eltsihw ,gnihtolc .eciton s’tnemom

WINDY POINT 6.2 km one way 200 m/659 ft. elevation gain

Windy Point Trailhead parking lot, or Foran Grade or Death Valley Trails

Winds through mixed woods and meadows from the junction with Death Valley Trail to Foran Grade Trail. A drop through meadows with views to the Sheep Trail.

WILDHORSE 15.8 km

Big Elbow Recreation Area, Volcano Ridge, Threepoint Creek or Hog's Back Trails

A popular mountain biking and equestrian route, this trail crosses rolling foothills to a spectacular black-shale canyon.

"9999" 6.8 km 91 m/300 ft. elevation gain

Mesa Butte/North Fork campgrounds

Follows Threepoint Creek, then turns south to open meadows along Ware Creek. Can be muddy.

Trails For Hikers TRAIL

ACCESS

REMARKS

BIGHORN INTERPRETIVE 0.5 km one way

Bighorn day use parking lot

A short stroll through meadow to the bermed viewpoint for the Bighorn Sheep meadow. Trail signs explain bighorn sheep biology and management.

BLUEROCK INTERPRETIVE 2 km one way

Hwy. #546 at Bluerock Creek or west end of Bluerock Campground

Views of mountains, river valleys, impressive creek canyons, water erosion and rock formations, as well as the remains of a sawmill.

JUNCTION CREEK INTERPRETIVE 1.2 km loop 213 m/710 ft. elevation gain

Junction Creek parking lot

A pleasant stroll with nice views of the Sheep River gorge and up Junction Creek.

Signs describe area's natural and cultural history.

SANDY MCNABB INTERPRETIVE 1.7 km loop

Sandy McNabb Interpretive Trail parking lot

A pleasant walk through mixed forest and meadow with viewpoints over the Sheep River valley.

ot yaw ehT yellaV reviR peehS

Backcountry Campground Facility THREEPOINT

PACKRACK/LOCKER

An easy, scenic foothills trail, often combined with Windy Point, Foran Grade and Sheep trails (16 km).

FIREPIT/FIREWOOD

Sandy McNabb Campground, Ware Creek Trail or 9999 Trail

TOILETS

DEATH VALLEY 12.6 km one way 220 m/720 ft. elevation gain

WATER

Summer Trails

PINIC TABLES

Sheep River Valley

Trails For Horseback Riders, Bikers & Hikers

noitaercer fo krowten s’atreblA nihtiw etiS ytilicaF noitaerceR a sa deganam si yellaV reviR peehS ehT TRAIL ACCESS REMARKS TRAIL ACCESS REMARKS lacirotsih dna ,larutluc ,larutan tnacififingis yllaicnivorp sti taht serusne sihT .saera detcetorp dna BLUEROCK strenuous wth d excellent .srotisiv rof seJunction cneCreek irepxe lanA o itacuhike de na lscenery. anoitaercerVOLCANO ytilauqCREEK gnidivorThreepoint p elihCreek, w ,detcOpen etomeadows rp ernear a Threepoint secruMountain/ oser CREEK 12.8 km one way Gorge Creek or Gorge Creek junction. Descending along parking lot Bench at the height of land (4.5 km from 9.7 km one-way 125 m/400 ft.

Volcano Creek Trails creek, there are excellent views of trailhead) has great views of Bluerock valley. evom ereh ees uoy efildliw ehT .metsysocE niatnuoM ykcoR lartneC eht fo trap si yellav Volcano ehT 265 m/2060 ft. elevation gain Ridge. elevation gain ,metsysoce eht fo htlaeh eht dna slamina eht tcetorp pleh oT .metsysoce egral siht tuohguorht WARE CREEK Ware Creek parking Three creek fords within 1 km of Ware CURLEY SAND Mesa Butte or North Climbs Mesa Butte with good views of front way 9999tc and Creek trailhead leadin toim a series of a meadows .t14.1 nm/150 ekm mone nft.o rivne ehlot, t orno apmi ru oyWare ez im es elp 3.6 km one way Fork campgrounds ranges.

50 Death Valley Trails along Creek.

•

•

•

•

•

Emergency

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mountain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

For More Information www.Kananaskis-Country.ca Kananaskis Information Centre (Barrier Lake) . . . . . . . . . 403-673-3985 Peter Lougheed Visitor Information Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-591-6322 Service Alberta Call Centre (toll free in Alberta) . . . . . . . . . . . . 310-0000 Backcountry Camping Permits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-678-3136 Campground Operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-949-3132 Group . . . . . . . . . .3.56./I.:..oN. ..bu.P. . . . . . . . . 1-877-537-2757 5102 yaMCampgrounds detnirP 1-9315-2377-0 :NBSI

The Sheep River Valley is managed as a Recreation Facility Site within Alberta’s network of recreation and protected areas. This ensures that its provincially significant natural, cultural, and historical resources are protected, while providing quality recreational and educational experiences for visitors.

The valley is part of the Central Rocky Mountain Ecosystem. The wildlife you see here move throughout this large ecosystem. To help protect the animals and the health of the ecosystem, please minimize your impact on the environment.

The way to Sheep River Valley

Please minimize your impact and leave no trace...

To enhance your enjoyment of the scenery and to ensure it’s just as beautiful the next time you visit, please minimize your impact and leave no trace by following park regulations and policies: • • • • • • •

•

Stay on trails; do not take shortcuts on switchbacks.

Keep pets on a leash at all times.

Do not pick flowers or remove natural objects.

Pack out what you pack in, as well as any additional litter you may find.

Wash and relieve yourself at least 60 metres from a water source when facilities are not available.

Do not feed any wild animals.

Open fires are not permitted in Provincial Parks. Use constructed firepits or cook on your portable stove when these facilities are not provided. Scavenging for firewood is prohibited.

Random camping is not allowed.

Always go prepared

ISBN: 0-7732-5139-1

Pub. No.: I/653

Printed May 2015

Take along a basic survival kit: flashlight, map, first-aid kit, extra food, clothing, whistle, and raingear. Remember, the weather can change at a moment’s notice.

Powderface Ford Creek 10.7

Mount Fullerton

Little Elbow

Fordknoll 2.2 0.6

Nihahi Ridge 2.2

Nihahi 2.4

Mount Remus

2.1

0.4

1.1 0.9

1.4

0.7

0.5 0.3 0.2 1.0

Cre ek

Hogs Back 4.1

Allsmoke Mountain

Threepoint Mtn. 9.8

P

Little Elbow River

Volcano Creek 4.7 Mount Rose

Creek rge Go

Tombstone Lakes 3.7 Cougar Mountain

Elbow Pass

Mount Rae

Rock Glacier

Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park

e

Volcano Link 3.2

South 2.3

Mount Ware

P 1.5

Bluerock

Indian Oils

Highwood Meadows

Gibraltar Mountain

Rickerts Pass

Sheep 10.0

0.5 1.3

Sheep River Windy Point P Provincial Park

0.8

546

Sheep 6.7 Green Mountain

0.6

0.9

Sheep 3.2

4.4

Junction Creek

Junction Mtn 8.5

Junction reek C

40 M

Fire Lookout

ist

ek Cre

Mount Lipsett

Mt Lipsett

Mist Mountain

Junction Mountain

Mist Creek 13.2

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park

Storelk Mountain

N

Pyriform Mountain

0

2km

4km

Highwood River

Mist Creek

P

Trout Pond

P Picklejar

1.6

1.7

P

Price Camp 2.7

Bluerock Wildland Provincial Park

Mount McNabb

C

Sandy McNabb

Pr

Mount Hoffman

Storm Mountain Mount Tyrwhitt

Fo Gr

Green Mtn. 10.9

Sheep River Falls

P

Sheep R

0.

D Foran V Grade 1.5 3.2

iver Sheep

Bighorn Lookout

P

0.8 Whiskey Lake 1.4

Windy Point 3.2 Missinglink Mountain

1.0

South Gorge Creek 5.3

Indian Oils 4.7

1.5

Gorge Creek

Gorge Creek 5.0

Bluerock Creek 9.7

Private Property

Death Valley 4.9

Bluerock Wildland Provincial Park

Ware Creek 3.6

Volcano South 2.7

2.7

Mount Burns

Ware Creek 6.7

1.4

Gorge Ware Connector 2.7

Bluerock Indian Wildland Oils 3.0 Provincial Park Par

Sheep 12.3

40

k ree oC an Volcano

Threepoint

Bluerock Mountain

Elbow Pass 6.7

Elbow Lake

lc Vo

Gorge Creek 3.1

Tombstone

Ware Creek 3.8

k

Rock Creek

Threepoint Mountain

4.0

99 Tr 4.

Ware Creek

Volcano Creek 8.1

Big Elbow 11.2

9999 Trail 2.8

North Fork 5.4

Big Elbow

1.0

Curle 3.6

ee k Threepoint Cr

Banded Peak

Mesa Butte

Threepoint Creek 3.8

Ware Cr e

6.7

0.5

w River

Mount Cornwall

Big Elbow 4.4

Big Elbo

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park

Threepoint Creek 3.5

Threepoint Creek 5.0

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park

o

Fisher Creek

Mount Barwell

Wildhorse 15.8 Mac Creek

w

sg Gla South

Mount Glasgow

P

reek

Forgetmenot Mountain

Mt. Romulus

Elpoca Mountain

irk C

Big Elbow 3.9

Little Elbow 7.4

Tombstone Mountain

Mount Quirk

Forgetmenot Pond Elbow P Little Trailhead

Little Elbow Equestrian 3.0

Mount Romulus

549

Cobble Flats

Powderface Ridge 6.9

Qu

Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park

66

ey Sand

North Fork 0.3

Chuckwagon Cafe

549

999 rail .0

Here is one of those terrific hidden gems along the Cowboy Trail.

Death Valley Creek

Winner of “Calgary’s Best Burger” awarded

by Avenue Magazine for 2 years in a row.

1.5

.8

Death Valley Loop 2.0

oran rade

Featured for their “Flat Iron Eggs Benedict” on the TV Show “You Gotta Eat Here” produced by the Food Network Canada.

Pine Ridge 7.9

Death Valley 4.2

1.2

Long Prairie Ridge 0.4 2.1 Death 0.7 Valley 1.4 0.8 0.9 Sheep Meadow 1.4 2.3 1.4 Price Camp 2.7

P

P

P

Sandy McNabb

y b

Sheep River rovincial Park Mount Dyson

Look for the little red barn at the 4-way stop in Turner Valley.

Open at 8 AM daily. Ph: 403-933-0003

Mount Shark Winter Trails

The Mount Shark Trails System offers you a challenging outing on trails that were developed for skiers interested in racing and training.

There are six interconnected loops of varying lengths in which to choose.

The Mount Shark trailhead is a major starting point for skiers and hikers heading into Banff National Park and Mt Assiniboine Provincial Park in B.C. Access into these areas is gained via Watridge Lake Trail. Most of the trails in this system are intermediate, with some difficult and demanding sections. If you want to ski on an easy trail, Watridge Lake Trail is an easy rolling trail with some excellent views.

N

All or portions of these trails may be closed whenever there is a race being held here.

Trail and avalanche information can be obtained from albertaparks.ca/kananaskis OR Kananaskis Infoline at 403-678-0760

Ruedi Setz Memorial Biathlon Range: The range, built in 1991, was named after Ruedi Setz, a nordic athlete and enthusiastic contributor to the development of the biathlon and cross-country skiing in Alberta. Ruedi was instrumental in the visualisation of this facility, used by athletes for practice and occasional races.

Watridge Lake Trail: This is a recreational trail with access to Watridge Lake and Banff National Park and Mt Assiniboine Provincial Parks. Watridge Lake is 3.2km from the trailhead. To actually get down to the lake, you must descend a short, steep connector trail from the junction to the lake. Use caution when descending this trail as there may be skiers slowly working their way up.

N

Grooming & Tracksetting: All of these trails are groomed and track set during the winter.

The last loop of the “Green 15km Trail� is NOT groomed or trackset.

Please watch for grooming equipment on trails.

Photo: Bob Truman

Please remember:

Trail Etiquette N

Winter Safety Tips Equipment failure may occur - be prepared.

Carry appropriate winter clothing, particularly a warm hat, even on pleasant days.

Carry high energy foods such as chocolate and/or dried fruit and plenty of water.

Carry an extra pair of winter socks. They can be the difference between cold fet and frostbite.

Insulated blankets and waterproof matches are invaluable in an emergency.

Be prepared, consider duct tape or even spare parts in case of equipement failure.

Travel beyond deasignated areas is not recomended, because of avalanhce danger and the possibility of getting lost.

Artwork freely adapted by Kananaskis Country, Based upon original drawings by Doug Bevan

ISBN: 0-5538-8084-7

November 2015

N

For current t

EmErgE

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mounta Tell the operator you have an eme

Wildlife Si

To report a sighting of a bear or cougar, please

For more inf

Visit www.albertapar Kananaskis Infoline

Travel beyond designated areas is not r danger and the possib

Check out all our visitor guides to enhance your travels N

FREE

2015/2016

EXPERIENCE

FREE

n Parks The Mountai estern Canada

Visitors' Guide

to W

19 Helpful Map Pages

ddings Mountain We ntest Honeymoon Co Tour gs rin Sp t Ho Stand Up ng Paddleboardi

FREE

EXPERIENCE

Girls Getaway

2015/2016

st

Reader Conte

way Icefield Park Full Map pg 50

E

FREE

The numbers on the six maps correspond to number signs in the field. If you would like to ski a designated distance, coloured trail signs in the field will direct you through your chosen loop.

Please note that western section of the 15km Green Loop is not maintained.

2015/2016

XPERIENCE

Trail

is Country

16 Helpful Map Pages DIY Wedding

s

Horseback Pack Trips Rodeos & Pow Wows

FREE

Fish Creek Provincia

& the Rotary/Matt

T h e C o w b oy

& Kananask

l Park

amy Greenway

10 Helpful Map Pages

Select a Hik e Suggested To

urs

Reader Cont

Hiking 101 Outdoor Weddings

Creating a Legacy Calgary’s Best Golf Holes

trail grooming reports visit: albertaparks.ca/kananaskis N

Ency

ain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. ergency in Kananaskis Country.

ightings

e call Kananaskis Dispatch at 403-591-7755

formation

rks.ca/kananaskis e 403-678-0760

recommended because of avalanche bility of getting lost.

FREE

Reader Contest

View our Mobile Editions at ExploreKananaskis.com For all your print and digital publishing needs contact Bob at 403-259-8290

ests

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

Trail Etiquette

Cross-country Ski Trails

TRAIL INFORMATION Amos - 2.5 km - Easy/Intermediate

A narrow winding trail that offers three ski loops by connecting with Wheeler, Lynx or Woolley Trails.

Blueberry Hill - 3.2 km - Difficult From Elk Pass parking lot, follow the Elk Pass Trail for about 5 km to the Blueberry Hill junction. From this junction, you will gain 305 m in elevation before reaching the trail end. The run is long and can be fast. The view from the summit is superb.

Boulton Creek - 2.5 km - Intermediate From North end trail climbs onto the west ridge above the creek before decending to valley bottom for the southern 1.2km.

Braille - 2.0 km - Easy

This trail follows the powerline from the William Watson Lodge area, crosses Lodgepole Trail once and then links up with it again 1.3 km later.

Come Along - 1.5 km - Intermediate

A narrow, hilly trail through the forest. For those skiing this part of the valley, this trail offers more challenge than Pocaterra Trail.

Elk Pass - 7.3km - Intermediate

This trail takes the ambitious skier to the Alberta/British Columbia border and rises 240 m in elevation. Spectacular views and excellent snow conditions are the rewards after the long uphill just beyond the Elk Pass Trailhead.

Fox Creek - 1.6 km - Easy

This trail offers an easier route to Elk Pass than the Elk Pass Trail, since it bypasses a difficult hill in the first 1.5 km of the Elk Pass Trail.

Hydroline - 3.9 km - Intermediate Another connector between Patterson Trail and the junction of Elk Pass and Tyrwhitt Trails. Groomed for skating.

Lodgepole - 4.2 km - Easy

An easy run through lodgepole pine forest. There is one steep, challenging hill near the junction with Meadow Trail. Watch for cars when crossing the roads.

Lookout - 5.2 km - Difficult From the junction of Pocaterra and Tyrwhitt Trails, it is a hard, steady uphill climb (215 m elevation gain) to the fire lookout and fantastic views of the valley. The downhill sections to Hydroline and Tyrwhitt are very difficult and for accomplished skiers only.

Lower Lake - 1.4 km - Easy

This easy trail provides access to the Lower Lake Group Camp.

Lynx - 1.9 km - Intermediate One-third of this trail is considered intermediate in difficulty. An interesting ski loop of about 10 km is made by starting from the Pocaterra ski parking area and taking Pocaterra Trail to Lynx and then returning via Woolley and Meadow Trails. Exciting roller coaster terrain makes this trail a nordic favourite.

Artwork freely adapted by Kananaskis Country, Based upon original drawings by Doug Bevan

Photo by: Bob Truman

Meadow - 4.3 km - Intermediate

This trail passes through rolling forest terrain. Watch for tricky curves on the hill approximately 1 km along the trail from the Visitor Centre Trailhead. Be careful when crossing the park roads.

to Calgary (60 km)

Canmore

Moraine - 2.4 km - Intermediate

This trail, when combined with a short section of the Fox Creek Trail and the Boulton Creek Trail, makes for an enjoyable 4.6 km loop.

Packers - 3.1 km - Difficult Skiing this trail from the Boulton area to Pocaterra Trail is relatively easy, but the reverse course can be difficult, especially under icy conditions.

Patterson - 0.9 km - Intermediate This linkage trail provides access from Hydroline to Elk Pass Trails.

Pocaterra - 10.0 km - Easy/Intermediate

Kananaskis Village 742

Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trails

40

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

This popular trail connects to six other trailsproviding a variety of ski loops.

Rolly Road - 1.5 km - Intermediate

This trail begins with a steep uphill climb. Once you reach the hilltop, Rolly Road is just as the name suggests.

Sinclair - 2 km - Intermediate This is a pleasant ski with a few fast downhill sections through a lodgepole pine forest.

Spruce Road - 0.8 km - Easy This short trail is an easy ski in the vicinity of the William Watson Lodge.

Tyrwhitt - 4.5 km - Intermediate

This trail runs through the gently rolling Tyrwhitt Valley from the south end of the Pocaterra Trail to Elk Pass. The trail is at the 1981 m elevation level and considerable snow accumulation allows for skiing as late as May. For your safety, please do not stop between the "Avalanche Danger" signs.

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is part of the Central Rocky Mountain Ecosystem. The wildlife you see here move throughout this large ecosystem. To protect the animals and the health of the ecosystem, please minimize your impact on the environment.

Wheeler - 4.7 km - Intermediate

This is one of the most popular trails in the park. You'll encounter one difficult steep section on the Wheeler Trail, particularly if conditions are icy.

Whiskey Jack - 4.5 km - Intermediate

A few abrupt downhills make for fast descentes on this challenging, exciting trail.

William Watson Lodge Access - 0.6 km - Easy

This short trail connects Spruce Road and William Watson Lodge to the rest of the park trails.

Woolley - 2.3 km - Intermediate

This trail links the Meadow and Lynx Trails and bypasses the Elkwood parking area. An enjoyable loop can be created by combining the Woolley Trail with the Amos and Meadow Trails.

Winter Safety Tips Carry appropriate winter clothing, particularly a warm hat, even on pleasant days.

Insulated blankets and waterproof matches are invaluable in an emergency.

Carry high energy foods such as chocolate and/or dried fruit and plenty of water.

Be prepared, consider duct tape or even spare parts in case of equipement failure.

Emergency

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mountain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

Wildlife Sightings

To report a sighting of a bear or cougar, please call Kananaskis Dispatch at 403-591-7755

For more information:

Visit www.albertaparks.ca/kananaskis Kananaskis Infoline 403-678-0760 Travel beyond designated areas is not recommended because of avalanche danger and the possibility of getting lost.

ISBN: 978-1-4601-2458-1

November 2015

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Cross-Country Ski Trail Boulton Creek Area Inset

Whiskey Jack

0.3

D

Moraine

0.4

A

0.2 0.3

2.1

Boulton Bridge Parking

Lower Lake

ra ter

a Poc

1.7

To Highway #40 Pocaterra Hut & Parking

1.8

Rolly Road

a terr

a Poc Meadow 1.1 1.2

0.5

0.1 1.0

Pocaterra

0.8

To Canmore Approx. 57 km

0.6 0.7

1.4

1.2

Smith-Dorrien/ Spray Trail (road)

Elkwood Parking

Lodgepole

1.6

Spruce Road

Amos

Marl Lake Amos

1.0

0.4

0.9

2.5

0.4 0.3

0.9

William Watson Lodge

0.5 0.3

Wheeler

1.6

Lower Lake

0.1 0.2

Packers

3.0

2.1

2.1

1.1

Braille

Lodgepole Sinclair

Woolley

Visitor Info.

Centre 1.4

Lynx

1.9

Come Along 0.9

Meadow

Whiskey Jack 2.8

Kananaskis Lakes Trail (road)

ca Po 0.7 0.5

0.6

3.4

Boulton Creek

ra ter

2.2

Dogs prohibited on trails

2.7

N

Boulton Parking

B

rs ke

ler

rra

ate Poc

C

c Pa

Whee

0.5

Watch for grooming equipment on trails

See Inset Top Left Corn Fo Moraine

0.2 0.4 0.2

2.7

0.3

Boulton Parking

0.2

1.3 0.8 Boulton BoultonElk Bridge CreekPass Parking Parking

0.

0

1

Kananaskis Lakes Trail (road)

Canyon Parking

Lower Kananaskis Lake

Upper Kananaskis Lake

For current trail grooming reports visit: albertaparks.ca/ka

l System

Legend

4.5

Tyrwhitt Lookout

1.1

1.0

on

0.5

Elk 1.0 Pass

0.3

2.1

Hydroline Elk Pass

1.3

Elk Pass

ers

0.9

1.1

1.5

1.5

tt Pa

Viewpoint

ner ox Creek

Total one-way distance

Hydroline

5.1

3.3

0.5

Blueberry Hill

Amos

2.5 km

Blueberry Hill

3.2 km

Boulton Creek

2.5 km

Braille

2.0 km

Come Along

1.5 km

Elk Pass

7.3 km

Fox Creek

1.6 km

Hydroline

3.9 km

Lodgepole

4.2 km

Lookout

5.2 km

Lower Lake

1.4 km

Lynx

1.9 km

(Group Camp)

Upper Lake Parking

ananaskis

Viewpoint

Graphics Parking Visitor Information Centre Viewpoint Road

Trail difficulty Easy Intermediate

Access Road

4.5 Downhill

Distance between junctions in km Uphill

Difficult Mixed

Easy/ Intermediate

Meadow

4.3 km

Moraine

2.4 km

Packers

3.1 km

Patterson

0.9 km

Pocaterra

10.0 km

Rolly Road

1.5 km

Sinclair

2.0 km

Spruce Road

0.8 km

Tyrwhitt

4.5 km

Wheeler

4.7 km

Whiskey Jack William Watson Lodge Access Woolley

4.5 km

ALS, L, RENTAPPARES OOR OUR OUTDUIDED T LOCATED IN THE KANANASKIS VILLAGE &G X-COUNTRY SKI, SNOWSHOE & SKATE RENTALS

403-591-7000 Full Moon Snowshoe Fondue Tours Stargazing Tours Cross Country Ski Lessons

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LET US INTRODUCE YOU TO THE TRAILS

XC SKI LESSONS – ALL SKILL LEVELS GUIDED SNOWSHOE DAY HIKES XC & SNOWSHOE FITNESS PROGRAMS AFFORDABLE GEAR RENTALS

0.6 km 2.3 km

Pick up our Program & Rental Guide www.ucalgary.ca/outdoorcentre 403.220.5038

Canmore 40 km 340

280

SW

SE

W 260

240

1 80

22 0

200

Hogarth Lakes Hogarth Lakes Loop

Mud Lake

0.2 0.2

Fro

st

Hogarth Lakes Loop Trail A 3.9 km loop of flat terrain from Burstall Pass Day Use Area; 30 m of elevation gain.

5

He 1.3 a

Burstall Pass Frost Heave Trail

2.4 km with 68 m elevation gain in the final one km.

742

Chester Sawmill

0.4

3.9

Kananaskis Village Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trail

1.6

1 2.

Canmore

1.6

12 0

to Calgary (60 km)

3

E

S

2.3

742

40

NE

Chester Lake Cross-Country Trail

100

Snowshoe Trails Locator

20

NW

80

Please practice proper winter etiquette: Snowshoeing and hiking on designated trails is dangerous for all users and ruins the groomed trails. Please limit snowshoeing and winter hiking to dedicated snowshoe trails. On ungroomed trails shared with skiers, snowshoers should stay to the edge of the trail and never walk on skier tracks.

0

N

30 0

0 32

60

Snowshoers intending to venture off of these designated trails and into more complex avalanche terrain should have experience with avalanche terrain assessment and be equipped for winter backcountry travel. Always remember to check the updated avalanche report for Kananaskis Country at www. albertaparks.ca/kananaskis

Chester Sawmill Snowsho

160

Snowshoe Trails

ananaskis Country offers many wonderful opportunities for snowshoeing and this brochure provides details on the 16 designated snowshoe trails in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and the Kananaskis Valley. These trails are designated for beginner, intermediate and advanced snowshoers and are located in Simple Class 1 Terrain as defined by the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale. For more information visit www.avalanche.ca

0 14

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and Kananaskis Valley

K

40

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Emergency

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mountain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

Wildlife Sightings

To report a sighting of a bear or cougar, please call Kananaskis Dispatch at 403-591-7755

For more information:

Visit www.albertaparks.ca/kananaskis Kananaskis Infoline 403-678-0760 Travel beyond designated areas is not recommended because of avalanche danger and the possibility of getting lost.

Legend Snowshoe Trail

Trailhead

Cross-country Ski Trail

Viewpoint

0

1 1:40,000

2

Km

All distances shown in kilometres

Chester Lake or Burstall Pass Trailhead ISBN: 978 -1- 4061-2455-0

6.2 Kilometres

Sawmill Trailhead November 2015

6

oe Trails

Winter Trail Etiquette

Chester Lake Chester Lake Trail

3

3.4

Don’t walk or snowshoe on ski tracks.

It ruins them for skiers. Instead, use the edges of ski trails.

4

3.4 km one-way from Chester Lake Trailhead Area; 287 m of elevation gain. Shared with skiers for first 0.2 km, then follow the trail signs.

Chester Lake

Don’t park on the trails.

If you stop to eat, change clothing, or take a photo – step off the trail, so others won’t have to.

Chester Lake Snowdrift Trail

av

e

8.3 km with 215m elevation gain.

Mt. Murray Viewpoint 1.0

7

Keep the trails clean.

Watch out for accidental litter at lunch or snack breaks.

0.6 0.6

Don’t let the trails go to the dogs.

Snowdrift 3.3

Sawmill Loop Trail

6

9

5.1 km loop from Sawmill Trailhead, with 155 m elevation gain.

0.8

Graupel 5.6

Sawmill Loop 2.4

Sawmill Loop 2.7

5.6 km with 167m elevation gain.

8

Highway #40 15 km

Yield to skiers coming downhill.

On shared trails it’s easier for an uphill snowshoer to step off the trail than it is for the faster skier coming down.

When nature calls ... ... and there is no outhouse?

Carry a plastic bag to pack out your used paper and sanitary supplies.

1.5

Graupel Trail

Remember – Fido isn’t permitted on groomed trails. He’s allowed only on non-groomed trails, provided he’s on a leash and you remove his waste from the area.

Sawmill Watch for snowshoe trail markers to help you stay on the trails.

9

SW

22 0

28 0

30 0

S

20

SE

NE

40

E

2 Village Loops 2.5

Kovach

Aspen

Terrace

Avalanche Danger Beyond This Point

Village Sportsfield Parking Lot (See Inset)

Kananaskis Village

Heli-pad

742

11

1.8 Marsh Loop

1.8 km loop from

14

12

Meadow

Marl Lake

Amos

Lynx

Woolley

Elkwood

0

Village area.

1.0

SW

NW

S

0

N 3 40

SE

NE

20 40

E

Avalanche Danger Beyond This Point

All distances shown in kilometres

0.5

W

0 32

and in the Ribbon Creek/Kananaskis

2.0

Kilometres

located in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park,

explore the designated snowshoe trails

on these trails, snowshoers should

ruins the groomed trails. To reduce conflict

ski trails is dangerous for all users and

2.5 km of open and wide route along the Highway #40 closure.

Spectacular views on a clear day of Mt. Wintour and the Kananaskis Lakes. 74 m of elevation gain.

Wintour Trail

Meadow

Village Loops Trail

2 loops totaling 2.5 km with 40 m of elevation gain, starts at Village Sports Field Trailhead.

Rim Village Trail

Village Sportsfield Parking Lot

Snowshoeing and hiking on designated

check online for winter hours of operation

Peter Lougheed Visitor Information Centre

3.4 Elkwood Loop

0.7

2.5 Wintour Pocaterra Hut Meadow

Braille

Spruce Road

Marsh Loop Trail

William Watson Lodge

13

3.3 km of lakeshore trail with 14 m of elevation gain from Canyon Trailhead.

Lodgepole

Road Closed December 1 to June 14 inclusive

Terrace

Avalanche Danger Beyond This Point

125 250 Metres

3

Kananaskis Village Turn-off 27 km

0

Kovach

2.5 Village Loops

Terrace

12 0

Lower Lake 3.3

742

Lodgepole

Canyon

Canyon 1.7

4.7

Dorrien/ ithm S

Kananaskis Lakes Trail (Road)

Cross-country Ski Trail

Snowshoe Trail

Trailhead

Legend

Heli-pad

Emergency Centre

Kovach

Aspen

Kananaskis Village Inset

10 0

Lower Lake Trail

A 1.7 km trail with 24 m of elevation gain connecting Peter Lougheed Visitor Information Centre and Canyon Trailhead.

Canyon Trail

9.6 km to Sawmill Parking Lot

Penstock Loop

10

A forested 4.7 km loop with 40 m of elevation gain from Canyon Trailhead which provides nice views of the Opal Range.

Penstock Loop Trail

Kilometres

Highway #1 23 km

2.0

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Turn-off 26 km

40

Stoney Trail Parking Lot

1.7 Troll Falls

Hay Meadow

Terrace Trail south and Ribbon Creek trail beyond the Link and Ribbon Creek Ski trail juntion are not maintained for winter use, and are not recommended due to avalanche hazards in the area.

3.3km trail follows pictureesque Ribbon Creek.

60m of elevation gain.

Ribbon Creek Snowshoe trail

1

Troll Falls

Ribbon Creek Parking Lot

1.7 km one-way from Stoney Trail Parking Lot; 60 m of elevation gain.

Troll Falls Trail

3.3 Ribbon Creek Avalanche Danger Beyond This Point

200

W

0

1 80

3 40

160

NW

0

0 32

14

260

1.5

30 0

28 0 260

1.0

Te

0.5

ld

0

22 0

d) oa

200

Nakiska Ski Area N eD rra c 80

1 80

12 0

60

160

10 0

R il ( Tra y ra Sp

0

60

s Fie

rive

Spor t

lD

14

80

240

e

nte riv

Ce ia nn

240

Kananaskis Village Snowshoe Trails Peter Lougheed Provincial Pa

Elkwood Loop Trail

15

16

Upper Lake Connector

© Paddy Pallin

Boulton Creek

1.0

5.8

Lookout

Elk Lakes Provincial Park (BC)

Elk Pass

Kilometres

Tyrwhitt

Alberta

2.0

Alberta/BC Boundary

Phone

Visitor Information Centre

Trailhead

Cross-country Ski Trail

Snowshoe Trail

Legend

40

All distances shown in kilometres

0.5

Patterson

Elk Pass

Hydroline

0

Alberta

Elk Pass

Fox Creek

Elk Pass

Kananaskis Lakes Trail (Road)

3.4 km loop starting at Elkwood Amphitheatre Trailhead, add an extra 0.7 km from William Watson Lodge. 23 m elevation gain, with lovely views of Marl Lake and the Elk Range.

Wheeler

This route takes you to the Alberta/BC border via a 5.8 km long trail; 222 m of elevation gain. You will have a view of Lower Kananaskis Lake and the surrounding mountains. Some portions of this trail cross or share ski trails, so please stay on the edge of the trails, and yield to oncoming skiers. No dogs allowed.

Elk PassTrail

Upper Kananaskis Lake

Lower Kananaskis Lake

William Watson Lodge, with 21 m elevation gain.

ark Facility Zone Snowshoe Trails HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL CANADA

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Ribbon Creek

Trail Etiquette

Cross-country Ski Trails

TRAIL INFORMATION Aspen Trail—1.8 km

A rolling intermediate alternative to the more difficult sections of Kovach trail or the easier Terrace Trail. It offers good views of the Kananaskis Village and the Kananaskis Valley.

Bill Milne Trail—10.2 km

An easy trail with a few fast sections in the Wedge Pond Area. This trail takes you to Kovach Pond, the Kananaskis Golf Course, Mt. Kidd RV Park (open yearround), Wedge Pond, and the Kananaskis Village (intermediate rating). The Bill Milne Trail from Ribbon Creek to the Kananaskis Golf Course is groomed for skate skiing, not trackset.

Coal Mine Trail—2.6 km

A pleasant trail to a reclaimed coal mine site. It offers dramatic vistas of the valley and mountains. This trail is accessed by Hidden Trail.

Hay Meadow Trail—1.6 km

An open flat trail that is great for children and novice skiers. The trail is named for the pasture area which was used by logging ponies at one time.

Hidden Trail—1.8 km

This trail provides access to the Nakiska Ski Area.

High Level Trail—1.4 km

Parts of this trail can be fast, making a challenging loop when combined with Skogan Pass and Sunburst Trails.

Kovach Trail—5.0 km

This trail receives good snow throughout the season and passes through a re-growth area from the forest fire of 1936. The route is named after a former forest ranger in the area, Joe Kovach.

Link Trail—0.8 km

This is a short trail through a mature forest that connects Kovach and Ribbon Creek Trails.

Marmot Basin Trail—2.7 km

This trail has excellent snow conditions and allows access to Nakiska's Midmountain Lodge. This trail passes through a mature spruce forest, has several bridged stream crossings and provides a good descent from the top but is rarely trackset.

Ribbon Creek Trail—4.1 km

Rerouted Ribbon Creek trail. Groomed ski trail. Steep section beyond viewpoint.

Ruthie's Trail—0.4 km

This short, steep trail provides a loop connection to Skogan Pass Trail and provides easy access to/from the Nakiska Day Lodge.

Skogan Pass Loop—3.1 km

This trail has excellent snow conditions and offers the advanced skier a challenging loop off the Skogan Pass Trail. The trail winds its way up through cutblocks, giving an open view of the Kananaskis Valley and provides an exhilarating downhill run. Exceptional views of the Kananaskis Valley.

Artwork freely adapted by Kananaskis Country, Based upon original drawings by Doug Bevan

Skogan Pass Trail—10.5 km

This very scenic route is the main accesss trail to the northern portions of the ski trail sytem. It's a good trip for the intermediate skier with some fast downhill runs. Spectacular views.

to Calgary (60 km)

Canmore

Sunburst Trail—1.2 km

This trail is for advanced skiers because of an extremely fast downhill section from the top. Excellent views of the Kananaskis Valley.

Terrace Trail—2.2 km

This is a scenic trail that meanders through aspen forest and connects to the Kananaskis Village area trails.

Troll Falls Trail—1.3 km

This trail is an excellent novice route that ends at a scenic icefall. Travel from the Ribbon Creek parking lot 0.5 km on the Skogan Pass Trail, then cross the Nakiska road to access Troll Falls Trail.

742

Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trail

Kananaskis Village / Ribbon Creek 40

Kananaskis Village Trails

Some ski trails described below are accessible from the Kananaskis Village via the Terrace Trailhead at the Kananaskis Village Sports field parking lot, and via the Bill Milne Trail starting at the Kananaskis Village Centre parking lot.

Terrace Trail—2.2 km; Watch for horse-drawn sleighs on this trail.

Terrace Link—1.0 km Kovach Trail—5.0 km; Excellent views with good snow usually.

Aspen Trail—1.8 km; Good views.

Ribbon Creek Trails are within the

Bill Milne Trail—2.4 km

Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area.

Wedge Pond Area Trails

Wedge Pond trails offer a quiet alternative to the busier Ribbon Creek area.

These trails also have good snow conditions and are groomed for track and skate skiing.

Wedge Connector—2.4 km An easy-intermediate trail with a single track and skating lane. This trail can be skied as a loop with the Evan-Thomas Fireroad and Bill Milne Trail or just as an easy shuffle to Evan-Thomas Creek for lunch.

The area is part of the Central Rocky Mountain Ecosystem. The wildlife you see here move throughout this large ecosystem. To help protect the animals and the health of the ecosystem, please minimize your impact on the environment.

Evan-Thomas Fireroad—1.7 km An easy trail used to access the Wedge Connector.

Please use the trail map on the reverse side to plan your ski route. Maps and additional trail information are posted at all intersections of designated trails.

Emergency

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police or Mountain Rescue assistance, immediately call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

Wildlife Sightings

Winter Safety Tips Carry appropriate winter clothing, particularly a warm hat, even on pleasant days.

Insulated blankets and waterproof matches are invaluable in an emergency.

Carry high energy foods such as chocolate and/or dried fruit and plenty of water.

Be prepared, consider duct tape or even spare parts in case of equipement failure.

To report a sighting of a bear or cougar, please call Kananaskis Dispatch at 403-591-7755

For more information:

Visit www.albertaparks.ca/kananaskis Kananaskis Infoline 403-678-0760 Travel beyond designated areas is not recommended because of avalanche danger and the possibility of getting lost.

ISBN: 978-1-4601-2457-4

Printed in November 2015

Legend Downhill

Uphill

Easy

Parking

Viewpoint

Distances between trail junctions

Intermediate

Information

Hotel/Motel

DifďŹ cult

Camping (Vehicle Access)

Restaurant

Horse-drawn Sleigh Route

Dumping Station

Ribbon Creek Hostel

Emergency Services

Toilet

Picnic Shelter

Bridge Highway #40 Access Road River/Creek

North Ribbon Creek Trail groomed beyond this

Ribbon Creek Link 0.8

19 km to Smith-Dorrien/Spray Trail (road) turn-off (22.5 km to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Visitor Information Centre)

Kovach 1.6

Kananaskis Golf Course

4.3

Evan-Thomas Fireroad

McDougall Creek

Trail not maintained beyond this point

2.2

Ribbon 0.6 Creek d Parking Hid

0.7

Terrace 0.9

2.4

0.5 Bill Milne

Kananaskis River

0.4 Skogan 0.5 Pass 0 0.2

Kovach Pond Stoney Parking

Bill Milne

1.7

2.4

Evan-Thomas Creek

rrace Dri Te

Kananaskis Village

1.6

0.4

Wedge Connector

0.7

2.0

0.6 0.9 pen

med

0.6

1.2

Bill Milne Evan-Thomas Creek

1.5

Kovach

2.2

As Kovach en 1.0 ink Asp L e Terrac 0.08 0.2

ve

Mount Kidd RV Park

Wedge Pond

1.0

0.3Ribbon Creek

t groo

Avalanche Danger Beyond This Point

Kananaskis River

ch

Kova

Coa Min

o Trail n

1.2

Kananaskis Trail (Highway #40)

Avalanche Danger Beyond This Point

Kanan Riv

Boundary Ranch Kananaskis Emergency Services (KES)

Ribbon Creek

Ka (H

Cros

For current trail grooming reports visit: albertaparks.ca/kananaskis

South Twin Creek

Twin Creek Trail not maintained beyond Skogan Pass Summit 0.8 To Skogan Pass Summit 2 km

Nakiska Mid-Mountain Lodge

point

Marmot Basin

e

Marmot Creek

Nakiska Ski Hill

al ne

2.7 Cabin Creek Skogan Pass

Marmot Basin Service Road

2

1.2

Nakiska Ski Area Day Lodge

n

de

1.4

0.3

Skogan Pass Loop 2.3

0.7 1.3 Skogan Pass

ALS, REL, T N E R APPAURS R O O O OUTDUIDED T G LOCATED IN THE KANANASKIS VILLAGE &

High Level 1.4

Skogan Pass

X-COUNTRY SKI, SNOWSHOE & SKATE RENTALS

403-591-7000

0.9

n Pass 0.4 Troll Falls Skoga 0.8 Ruthie’s 0.3 0.8 0.2 Troll Falls 0.3 Marmot Creek

1.8

og

Sk

ass

P an

1.2

Full Moon Snowshoe Fondue Tours

Sunburst

Stargazing Tours Cross Country Ski Lessons

0.5

www.kananaskisoutfitters.com

Hay Meadow 1.6

naskis ver

Kananaskis River

LET US INTRODUCE YOU TO THE TRAILS

XC SKI LESSONS – ALL SKILL LEVELS

N

ananaskis Trail Highway #40)

Watch for grooming equipment on trails

GUIDED SNOWSHOE DAY HIKES XC & SNOWSHOE FITNESS PROGRAMS

To Highway #1 23.5 km

ss-Country Ski Trail System

AFFORDABLE GEAR RENTALS

Pick up our Program & Rental Guide www.ucalgary.ca/outdoorcentre 403.220.5038

TAKING VISITOR GUIDES MOBILE Encourage mobile savvy travellers to come & play in your town!

Act soon to maximize your exposure.

Includes: Live links throughout, A live Table of Contents, We’ll embed one video clip, Provide traffic counts twice per year We’ll host your mobile edition in our library for a year and give you the code to embed your guide into your website.

For more informtion contact Bob Harris (403) 259-8290; Bob@CMIPublishing.ca