Summer Activities

Outdoor Recreation Safety

Ensure you are prepared for rapid weather changes, wildlife encounters, equipment breakdowns and accidents. For more safety info

Extreme caution is recommended for boaters on larger water bodies in Kananaskis Country. The prevalence of floating logs and stumps dislodged by fluctuating water levels make it hazardous.
These lakes are subject to rapid weather changes and high winds. Canoes are not recommended on these lakes.
The lake waters are glacier fed and extremely cold. Water sports such as water skiing are not recommended.

Boats can be trailer launched on
- Upper Kananaskis Lake at the Upper Lake Day Use Area
- Lower Kananaskis Lake at the Canyon Day Use Area
- Spray Lakes Reservoir at Driftwood Day Use Area
- Barrier Lake at Barrier Lake Lower Day Use Area
- Gap Lake at Gap Lake Day Use Area
Hand launching can be done on all water bodies large enough for the water craft

Only experienced paddlers should attempt to use the area's cold water streams and lakes. Professional guides can help you explore this aspect of Kananaskis Country.
The Highwood River is renowned for whitewater canoeing and kayaking during spring runoff. It is recommended for EXPERT paddlers only.
Kayaks, canoes and rafts are popular on the Kanananskis River between the Widow Maker Day Use Area and Seebe Dam area. This reach of the Kananaskis River is NOT for novice paddlers.
The Kanananskis River is often closed for competitions or due to low water levels.

Our trail section indicates which trails in Kananaskis Country trails allow horses.
Equestrian campgrounds in Kananaskis Country

Fishing is allowed in many places in Kananaskis Country. Check Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations for details.
Alberta residents between 16 and 65 years must have an Alberta angling licence to fish. All non-residents must obtain an Alberta angling licence.
Fish are stocked in the ponds at McLean Creek and Allen Bill. Fishing in the Elbow River and its tributaries is also popular.
You can find a variety of sport fish here - rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat, bull and lake trout, Arctic grayling, and northern Dolly Varden.

Kananaskis Country Golf Course has two 18-hole courses.
It is located a few minutes drive from Kananaskis Village and Mount Kidd RV Park.

Kananaskis Country offers you thousands of kilometres of hiking trails to explore.

Check our trail desciptions/maps. Talk to visitor centre staff before your trip.
Obtain a backcountry camping permit if you plan on staying overnight in the backcountry.
Use a trail book.
Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact.

There are a variety of biking trails throughout Kananaskis County for cross-country and downhill mountain biking.
Our trail section indicates which trails in Kananaskis Country trails allow biking.
Speed and stealth are the main factors that contribute to negative encounters between bikers and bears.
When mountain biking in bear country
- Slow down in order to give bears time to identify you and leave the trail
- Project your voice to warn wildlife and other recreationalists of your approach

Enthusiasts pursue both sport climbing and traditional climbing in Kananaskis County, as well as scrambling.

Mountain climbing can be extremely hazardous. Only those with training should participate.
Professional guides are available to help you learns skills and to make your climbing experience safe and enjoyable.
Obtain a backcountry camping permit if you plan on staying overnight in the backcountry.

Off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts can explore more than 200 square kilometres in the McLean Creek Off Highway Vehicle Public Land Use Zone.
Camping and access to these trails is available at McLean Creek Provincial Recreation Area.
Be familiar with OHV safety.
Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact.