Kananaskis Country

Alberta Parks

Spray Valley

Updated: May 03, 2025

Updated: May 03, 2025 | Print Report

A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to park your vehicle in Kananaskis and the Bow Valley.

    May 2nd:  As temperatures continue to rise and the days get longer, anticipate more hiking options, but note that at present trails are generally snow covered with wet and muddy sections and in some areas, covered by standing water. 

    People seeking alpine objectives should keep in mind that spring avalanches are a potential hazard, and slow, heavy wet avalanches have real potential to push hikers/scramblers into terrain traps. Please ensure you check avalanche.ca before you go.

    Always come prepared for a variety of conditions, that can change suddenly throughout the day. You may want to consider bringing hiking poles, micro spikes, toques, gloves and multiple layers.  

    Be aware of closures in the area and check advisories before you go.

    Notes:

    • Be aware of avalanche conditions. Current conditions can be found at Avalanche Canada.
    • Practice wildlife safety. Travel in groups, make noise on the trail, and keep pets on leash. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is highly recommended, even in winter.
    • It's tick season! Make sure to check you and your pets when you get home. For best protection, use a bug repellent with DEET.
    • Caution is advised for natural hazards such as downed trees, washouts and missing bridges. Route-finding may be necessary. Please report any downed trees on the trails.
    • Be sure not to overestimate your ability when planning your trip: Humility can be a life saver. Plan for rapidly changing conditions and bring extra socks.

    Snow Depths:

    Burstall Pass: 139cm

    Mud Lake: 77cm

Maps

Trail Name Permitted Activities (Legend) Length Status Keywords
Buller Pass

April 30th: Mainly deep snow.

Hiking Hiking 7.5 km one-way to the pass; 9 km one way to Guinn's Pass junction, 10.1 km to Ribbon Lake Campground. Open
Burstall Pass

April 30th: Mainly deep snow.

Note: Bikes permitted on first 2.9 km of trail ONLY.

Biking/Cycling Biking/Cycling Hiking Hiking 7.4 km one-way Open
Chester Lake

Chester Lake: Closed May 1 - Jun 29 to allow area to dry and prevent damage to trail.

Biking/Cycling Biking/Cycling Hiking Hiking 4.6 km one-way Closed
High Rockies

April 29th: Mainly snow covered.

Note: Hiker-cyclist camping allowed at select day use areas only from Jun 1 - Sep 20. See details.

Biking/Cycling Biking/Cycling Hiking Hiking 63.0 km Goat Creek to Peninsula Day Use; 80.0 km Goat Creek to Elk Pass Open
Karst Spring

April 30th: Snow covered.

Hiking Hiking 0.8 km one-way Open
Peninsula Hiking Hiking 0.4 km Open
Rummel Lake

Warning: Trail is not maintained for summer use. Signage may not be up to date and hazards may exist along the trail.

 

Hiking Hiking Open
Spray Road West Biking/Cycling Biking/Cycling Hiking Hiking Horseback Riding Horseback Riding 10.8 km one-way Open
Watridge Lake Biking/Cycling Biking/Cycling Hiking Hiking Horseback Riding Horseback Riding 3.7 km one-way Open