As the title suggests, there are still places in Canada where you can go where most of remain untouched or un-modernized by everything we do. Kananaskis is one such place. Banff and Canmore do have surrounding areas where this is also true, but more and more people going to those places has created less and less purity to find. They are also stupid busy…ALL…THE…TIME.
Kananaskis on the other hand is less travelled and still has that fresh mountain air and a crazy amount of things to discover.
Kananaskis – A general overview
You are likely reading this because you are doing some research on going to Kananaskis and you already know the details. We won’t bore you will everything but here is a general overview.
Kananaskis is a stunning region in Alberta, Canada, known for its rugged wilderness, outdoor recreation opportunities, and natural beauty. It is located in the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies, southwest of Calgary, and is part of the greater Kananaskis Country, which includes several provincial parks, recreation areas, and protected wilderness spaces. Here’s an overview:
Key Features:
- Mountains and Landscapes: The area is dominated by impressive mountain ranges, alpine meadows, forests, rivers, and lakes. The diverse terrain makes it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Provincial Parks: Kananaskis includes Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, which is one of the largest and most popular in the region, along with several others like Spray Valley Provincial Park, Bow Valley Provincial Park, and Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park.
Peter Lougheed Provincial Park
- Wildlife: The area is rich in wildlife. Visitors might encounter species like elk, moose, deer, bears, cougars, and a variety of bird species. It’s a great spot for wildlife observation, though visitors are advised to take precautions in bear country.
- Outdoor Activities: Kananaskis is an outdoor paradise, with numerous activities available:
- Hiking: There are trails for all levels, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Popular hikes include the Ha Ling Peak, Ptarmigan Cirque, and Rawson Lake.
- Camping: There are several campgrounds available for both RV and tent camping.
- Mountain Biking: There are a number of trails catering to different skill levels.
- Climbing: Kananaskis offers rock climbing and mountaineering routes.
- Skiing: In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular, and Nakiska Ski Resort provides downhill skiing and snowboarding.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: The many rivers and lakes are perfect for paddling activities.
- Golfing: The Kananaskis Country Golf Course is renowned for its stunning views.
- Conservation: A large portion of Kananaskis is protected under Alberta’s park system, making it a haven for both wildlife and pristine natural environments. This also makes it a key area for research and conservation efforts, particularly regarding its diverse ecosystems.
- Nakiska Ski Area: This ski resort was built for the 1988 Winter Olympics and is one of the main attractions in winter, with alpine skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
- Kananaskis Nordic Spa: Offering a blend of outdoor hydrotherapy, massage treatments, and relaxation in nature, the Nordic Spa has become a relaxing destination for visitors looking to unwind.
Accessibility:
Kananaskis is about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive from Calgary, making it easily accessible for day trips or extended stays. The Kananaskis Trail (Highway 40) is the main route through the region, offering scenic views and access to various attractions.
Sustainability Efforts:
To preserve the pristine environment, Alberta has implemented conservation fees (the Kananaskis Conservation Pass) for vehicles entering the region. This fee helps support park maintenance, infrastructure, and conservation efforts.
Kananaskis is an excellent destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to enjoy Alberta’s mountainous landscapes without the large crowds found in other popular areas like Banff National Park.
The Kananaskis Nordic Spa
The Kananaskis Nordic Spa is highly recommended, I have been there a couple of times and loved it. I would say that even though this location is a developed area it still feels very much away from everything and a chance to relax and recalibrate.
Some Lesser Known Information
Here are some lesser-known aspects of Kananaskis that add to its unique charm and natural significance:
1. Indigenous History and Connection
Kananaskis has a deep connection to Indigenous peoples, particularly the Stoney Nakoda Nation, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. The area’s name is believed to come from the Cree word “Kin-e-a-kis,” meaning “meeting of the waters.” Indigenous communities have long considered the Kananaskis area as sacred land, and evidence of their presence can be seen in the form of ancient trails, campsites, and spiritual sites. Efforts are being made to recognize these cultural ties and include Indigenous perspectives in land stewardship.
2. Natural Hot Springs
While Kananaskis does not have the commercial hot springs that Banff or Jasper have, there are a few natural hot springs tucked away in the wilderness. These hot springs are relatively unknown and can be reached through challenging hikes or via insider knowledge from locals, making them hidden gems for those willing to explore further off the beaten path.
3. Hidden Waterfalls
Beyond the more popular waterfalls like Elbow Falls, Kananaskis is home to several hidden waterfalls that require some effort to find. These lesser-known spots often involve bushwhacking or taking lesser-traveled trails, providing a more secluded experience for visitors. Some examples include:
- Ribbon Falls: Accessible via a longer hike, offering a more remote and tranquil experience.
- Troll Falls: While popular in the summer, the nearby Troll Falls Upper section is often missed by tourists, providing a quieter, equally scenic location.
4. Kananaskis Valley Ghost Towns
While most visitors are attracted by the natural beauty, there are remnants of old logging and mining towns in Kananaskis. The valley was once home to industries that supported local communities. Places like the former Mount Allan coal mine (near Nakiska) have historical importance, although they have largely been reclaimed by nature. These ghost town remnants offer a glimpse into the region’s industrial past, and some structures or foundations may still be found deep within the forests.
5. Wildflowers and Rare Plant Species
Kananaskis is a haven for wildflowers during the summer, and its unique blend of ecosystems makes it home to many rare plant species not commonly found elsewhere. Wildflower species like the western wood lily, glacier lilies, and the rare alpine forget-me-nots blanket the meadows. Because of the region’s varying altitudes, you can find different wildflowers in bloom at different elevations, giving the area a colorful, ever-changing landscape throughout the summer.
6. Dark Sky Preservation
Kananaskis is part of an effort to preserve dark skies, making it one of the best places in Alberta to experience stargazing and observe celestial events like meteor showers and the Northern Lights. The area’s remote location and minimal light pollution offer an excellent opportunity for astrophotography and night-sky observation. The Kananaskis Village area and the Upper Kananaskis Lake are prime spots for stargazing.
7. Ecological Corridors
Kananaskis is part of a critical wildlife corridor that extends through the Rockies, allowing large animals like grizzly bears, wolves, cougars, and lynx to travel between habitats safely. These corridors are essential for maintaining genetic diversity among wildlife populations. Less known is the amount of research done in the area to monitor these wildlife movements and ensure that development in Kananaskis doesn’t disrupt these important pathways. The area is frequently used by researchers studying wildlife ecology and conservation.
8. Ice Climbing in Winter
While hiking and skiing get most of the attention, Kananaskis is also a hidden gem for ice climbing in the winter. Frozen waterfalls and alpine routes provide a challenging terrain for climbers. Some of the best places for ice climbing include the King Creek Canyon and Chester Lake. These spots are often quieter than the more famous Banff and Jasper areas but are still known among experienced climbers.
9. The Barrier Lake Laboratory
Few people know that Kananaskis is home to the Barrier Lake Research Station, an important field station for ecological and environmental research. This facility, operated by the University of Calgary, focuses on studying forest ecosystems, climate change, and hydrology in the Rockies. The research station also supports long-term environmental monitoring and contributes significantly to our understanding of mountain ecosystems. The public rarely visits it, but its work is crucial to the conservation of Kananaskis.
10. Kananaskis River Surfing
While not the first place one might think of for surfing, river surfing has become a niche activity on the Kananaskis River. The Mountain Wave, a standing wave created by water flow near Canoe Meadows, attracts adventurous surfers who enjoy the thrill of riding the continuous wave in freshwater. This location is also popular for white-water kayaking and offers a unique experience compared to the region’s more traditional water sports.
11. Backcountry Yurts and Cabins
While camping is popular in Kananaskis, a more secluded and less-known accommodation option is staying in one of the backcountry yurts or cabins scattered throughout the region. These off-grid options offer a more immersive wilderness experience while providing shelter from the elements. Mount Engadine Lodge, for example, offers cabins in a serene environment, with opportunities to spot wildlife right from your window.
12. Conservation Efforts: The Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) Initiative
Kananaskis plays a crucial role in the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y), which aims to create a continuous wildlife corridor from Yellowstone National Park in the U.S. to the Yukon in Canada. This massive conservation effort involves preserving critical habitats for wildlife, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, and ensuring that species can thrive across the landscape. Kananaskis is a key node in this network, and many of the conservation policies implemented in the region stem from this initiative.
These hidden elements of Kananaskis highlight its depth as a region rich in not only beauty and recreation but also culture, history, and conservation. For those willing to explore beyond the obvious, there’s a wealth of discoveries to be made.