Best Dog Friendly Hikes Kananaskis – Looking for a challenging and rewarding adventure in Kananaskis Country? Sarrail Ridge offers beautiful views of Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes, but not before climbing the ridge. When conditions are nice (not in winter), run through the forest and along Rawson Lake before entering the Sarrail Range. Don’t miss this amazing location in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park!
In October 2021, before the snow fell, I planned a day trip from Calgary to Kananaskis to see the elevation of the Sarrail Range. Of course, I’m glad I finally crossed this beautiful trip off my list. If you are planning a trip, visit from June to October to avoid the risk of avalanches between Lake Rawson and Sarrail Ridge. Do not attempt to climb the Sarrail Ridge during the winter months.
Best Dog Friendly Hikes Kananaskis
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Highlights: The Sarrail Ridge Trail begins at the edge of Upper Kananaskis Lake before turning onto the Rawson Lake Trail. Regular hikers may find the Rawson Lake Trail easy or easy, while others may find it challenging. After passing Lake Rawson, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lake, Bedawom Mountain, and the surrounding Rocky Mountain landscape before climbing steeply to the Sarrail Ridge.
If you’re coming from Calgary, exit the Trans Canada Highway and take Route 118 into Kananaskis County. Follow Highway 40 (Kananaskis Trail) for approximately 50 km to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and turn right onto Kananaskis Lakes Road. To park, go to the Upper Kananaskis Lake Day Use Area and join the Sarrail Ridge Trail. Arrive early to secure parking at this popular spot during the summer months.
Are you ready for the climb? The Sarrail Ridge Hike begins on the shores of Upper Kananaskis Lake, where many hikers enjoy the family-friendly Upper Kananaskis Lake Trail with its blue water and towering mountains. I left the parking lot and hiked along the south shore of Upper Kananaskis Lake, taking in the fall scenery and enjoying the cool weather. After approximately 20 minutes, cross the Sarrail Creek Bridge and reach the turnoff for Lake Rawson. Turn left and continue through the subalpine forest to Rawson Lake, approximately 1.7 miles.
Lake Rawson is a great hike in itself. Once you arrive at the lake, take a moment to admire the scenery before heading south around the lake. Follow the coastal path from south to south, then head north (right) to the steepest part. Now I see Sarrail Ridge in front of me. On this unconventional route, you can climb over 350 meters in just one kilometer – hiking poles are a must. But don’t worry, it’s worth it!
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After much shaking, Bella and I were greeted with beautiful views from the top. Continue along the ridge for better views of Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes. The last peak on the eastern side of the hill is difficult and difficult to climb (we didn’t do this part). In total, plan on 4 to 5.5 hours to complete this 11.5-mile hike.
When traveling within Sarrail range, especially when traveling with children. There are sharp and dangerous paths with no protection or walls. Again, I do not recommend going to Sarrail Ridge in winter due to the avalanche risk.
Mount Sarrail is a challenging hike that requires preparation. Before you head out, make sure you have a backpack with essentials like water (I use this two-liter bottle), snacks (like snacks or a granola bar), and a light first aid kit. When hiking in the Kananaskis Mountains, be prepared for the weather to change rapidly. If the weather forecast doesn’t call for rain, pack a warm jacket and a waterproof jacket.
I recommend wearing hiking shoes on this trail, I couldn’t do it without these crampons. Before you hit the road, practice your memory on these 10 essentials. If you’re new to hiking, you may want to consider easier options like Prairie Mountain or Tunnel Mountain instead of Sarrail Ridge.
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Park pass: Don’t forget about the Kananaskis Conservation Pass ($15 per day or $90 per season) before you start your trip. For added convenience, you can purchase at Kananaskis Country Visitor Centers or online.
Parking: Guests can park in the day-use area on Upper Kananaskis Lake. No additional parking fees are required.
Dogs: Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. Don’t forget to clean up after your pet and consider taking a scented bag with you.
Navigation: You shouldn’t have much trouble finding your way. Bring a copy of the Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes Map for reference. You can download Sarrail Ridge from AllTrails for online use.
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Wildlife: The Kananaskis area is home to many wild animals, including bears. When traveling in bear country, remember bear safety and carry bear spray in your backpack for convenience. Don’t feed or approach wild animals – help save wildlife!
If you are looking for other Kananaskis tours, you can add some of these to your list:
Are you planning to complete Sarrail Ridge in Kananaskis? Have you visited recently? Let me know in the comments
Thomas Coldwell always loved the outdoors. He enjoys hiking, paddling and camping. I like to create travel materials for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and traveled to over 20 countries. Don’t embarrass yourself; Calgary is a dog-friendly city and few dog owners want to leave their best friends behind when they go out. And of course, who is better to go with? Unlike friends and family, with dogs there is no need to stop to take another selfie and they will not start hanging out. With proper attention, they can teach you about wildlife and save your life.
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That said, not all dogs are well trained and well behaved to be able to go on good walks. Even in friendly dogs, the digging instinct is a bad habit under certain circumstances (see the smell of wildlife). The dogs are designed to give you the thrill of the chase without having to worry about the consequences of coming back with a coyote, cougar or bear.
Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country Provincial Parks have similar regulations designed to prevent negative consequences of dogs interacting with wildlife. Although there are no upscale locations in Kananaskis County, Banff is located near the entrance to the business district on Hawk Avenue. Otherwise, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, including when camping. Both K-Country and Banff have a tape length policy of no more than two meters in K-Country and three meters in Banff (although park staff do not use tape measures). If your dog is trapped, don’t wait for advice. Expect a big payout, though (fees start at $200 and can go up to $25,000, but higher payouts are rare).
Smaller dogs can climb shorter routes such as Troll Falls in K-Country. Photo: Marissa Gruenke.
Doggie doo-doo is another big problem with your own rules and regulations. Banff National Park asks people to dispose of dog waste in the trash. Bring thick plastic bags that won’t tear if dropped, as you’ll need to pick up your dog’s droppings wherever you go on the trail. (Tip: before leaving, walk your dog about 100 m, because after the trip he will “work”). At K-Country, follow the “leave no trace” guidelines for humans when you are on the trail. bury garbage in a hole 10-15 cm wide and at least 15-20 cm deep about 50 m from the water, trail and campsite.
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It’s important to show respect and care for people other than the dogs you meet on your hike. The dog does not have to be an overall good dog. The fewer negative experiences people have, the fewer complaints to authorities and the more open the opportunities for fun are for everyone – both humans and dogs. It’s probably better to bond with your dog on a mountain trail than to walk him through the city park that makes up a large part of Calgary. If he is anxious or argumentative with other people and dogs, choose a shorter walk or, better yet, leave your dog at home.
To keep dogs safe while hiking in the summer, choose a trail with a water source, such as Mistaya Canyon in Banff National Park.
Just like you, your dog will appreciate a great travel experience if he is in good physical condition. Is
