Kananaskis Range

The Kananaskis Range is a mountain range in western Alberta, Canada, forming part of the Canadian Rockies and located within the broader Kananaskis Country recreation area. It is a significant local range known for rugged peaks and alpine terrain.

Alpine peaks and ridges dominate the landscape, with numerous hiking and scrambling routes, backcountry ski lines and small glacial and alpine lakes. Trails range from short ridge walks to multi-day routes and provide views across valleys and toward adjacent ranges; many summits and cols sit above tree line. Recreation here includes day hiking, mountaineering, backcountry skiing and wildlife viewing.

The range was shaped by mountain-building and glacial sculpting during the region’s geologic history. Over the 20th century the area became managed for conservation and outdoor recreation within provincial park and provincial recreation area frameworks, with trails and facilities developed to support public access.

Geographically the range lies in western Alberta on the eastern flank of the Canadian Rockies, within Kananaskis Country and to the west of the Calgary metropolitan area. The landscape is a mix of steep limestone and shale ridges, forested valleys and alpine basins.

• Elevation: Many peaks in the range exceed 2,500 metres, offering alpine scenery and subalpine meadows.
• Best time to visit: Best accessed for hiking and scrambling in July to September when trails are clear of snow and alpine conditions are most stable.