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Hiking the Kananaskis Valley from Mount Engadine Lodge, Alberta

Imagine a place with all of the incredible mountain vistas of Banff National Park but none of the mass tourism. A destination that is still easy to get to and explore.

This is Alberta’s Kananaskis Valley and the best way to explore is from Mount Engadine Lodge, a road-accessible wilderness lodge with all the comforts of civilisation. 

Main wooden building of Mount Engadine Lodge with mountain range behind and Canadian flag flying on roof
Mount Engadine Lodge, Kananaskis Valley, Alberta
Sunset above a mountain range backdropping a meadow, outside of Mount Engadine Lodge in the Kananaskis Valley, Alberta
Sunset from the Mount Engadine Lodge meadow lookout

The Kananaskis Valley is a year-round playground for outdoor adventurers. In summer, it is a hiker’s nirvana. The range and variety of hiking in the Kananaskis Valley is quite frankly, nothing short of phenomenal.

During our stay at Mount Engadine Lodge, we hiked as many trails as we physically could and yet we still barely scratched the surface of the incredible hiking opportunities in the area. 

Read on to discover some of the best Kananaskis Valley hikes, plus a guide to the one-of-a-kind experience that is staying at Mount Engadine Lodge. 

We were guests of Mount Engadine Lodge. This post includes some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

Mount Engadine Lodge building above lush meadow in the Kananaskis Valley, Alberta
Looking up to Mount Engadine Lodge

Backcountry necessities

Please note, a Conservation Pass is required to stop/park in Kananaskis Country. Day passes are $15 and yearly passes $90

The Burstall Pass trail is one of the most rewarding Kananaskis Valley hikes - here, Gemma is hiking underneath Mount Birdwood
Hiking beneath Mount Birdwood (3097m) on the Burstall Pass trail – The hiking opportunities around Mount Engadine are spectacular 

The beauty of Mount Engadine Lodge, Alberta

Sitting on the edge of a lush meadow backdropped by impossibly rugged mountain peaks, Mount Engadine Lodge commands one of the most enviable locations in the Canadian Rockies.

It is undeniably beautiful and undoubtedly the number one reason why it is so booked out in both summer and winter. 

Gemma standing on patio, in front of tables and chairs, looking out to mountain range
The patio at Mount Engadine Lodge

But there is more to it than that.

Another aspect of the beauty of Mount Engadine Lodge is the chance to experience the quiet, unspoiled nature of the Canadian wilderness but without any of the preparation, equipment or costs usually required to get to the backcountry.

And believe me, despite the relative accessibility of the area, the Kananaskis Valley is most definitely a backcountry region. Wildlife (including bears) is abundant, the trails established still challenging, and the scenery pristine. 

Mount Engadine Lodge is beautiful in winter too. Check out Leigh’s experience on HikeBikeTravel here

A Kananaskis lodge experience with a difference

There is no 15km hike or expensive helicopter ride required to reach Mount Engadine Lodge. Instead, the drive from Calgary takes around two hours.

It is possible to park less than one minute from most of the accommodation, so you can bring as many sweaters, jackets and pairs of socks as you like. No need to carry a 30lb backpack over any mountain passes here. 

Wooden bench sits set around lit campfire at Mount Engadine Lodge with cabin and mountains in background
Campfire at Mount Engadine Lodge

The accommodation on offer is quite an upgrade too. Sleeping at Mount Engadine is on comfortable beds, in private rooms with indoor washrooms.

There are hot showers, electrical sockets and heating. The main lodge even has wi-fi, if you really want to connect with the outside world. 

If you have ever wanted to experience the real wilderness that is the Canadian Rockies but with a little more comfort and convenience, Mount Engadine Lodge is the place.

The setting is beautiful as almost everywhere I have been in Canada and yet it took little to no effort to get there. 

Mount Engadine Lodge is at 1844m elevation, so be sure to bring some warm layers for the mornings and evenings

Getting to Mount Engadine Lodge

Before I continue any further, let’s be sure about where exactly we’re talking about. Mount Engadine Lodge is located in the Kananaskis Valley south of Canmore, Alberta. Never heard of Canmore? It’s a mountain town not far east of Banff. 

An area very familiar to Calgary locals, the Kananaskis Valley is off the radar for most international (and even Canadian!) visitors to the Rockies.

Engadine Lodge sits on the left in front of a meadow and backdrop of mountain peaks, sunset
Engadine Lodge (left) has an enviable location in the Canadian Rockies

A well-guarded secret, the Kananaskis Valley has all of the incredible mountain vistas of Banff National Park but none of the mass tourism. 

The Kananaskis Valley is accessible via two highways – the 40 (also known as the Kananaskis Trail) and the 742 (the Smith-Dorrien Trail). The 40 is paved while the 742 is unsealed gravel. Mount Engadine Lodge is situated halfway down the Smith-Dorrien Trail, about 41km south of Canmore. 

Based on our experience, I would recommend travelling to Mount Engadine primarily via Highway 40. The distance is slightly longer from this direction but the road condition is better. It’s also an exceptionally scenic drive. 
Welcome to Engadine sign above wooden door, stone building
Welcome to Mount Engadine Lodge!
Cup of tea on table, menu held in front and mountain view behind on Mount Engadine Lodge deck
Perusing the afternoon tea menu on Mount Engadine Lodge’s deck. Afternoon tea is included with all stays at the lodge.

Dining at Mount Engadine Lodge

As mentioned, one of my most loved aspects of staying at Mount Engadine Lodge is that all food is included. And this doesn’t just mean breakfast, lunch and dinner, but afternoon tea as well

Is there anything better than being greeted after a challenging hike in the alpine with an artisan charcuterie board? I think not, unless it comes with homemade dessert as well. Mount Engadine Lodge has that covered too. Afternoon tea is served from 2pm to 5pm every day, and visitors are welcome. 

Afternoon tea charcuterie board at Mount Engadine Lodge - three types of cheese, dried meat and cheese, nuts, olives and pickled aparagus
Mount Engadine Lodge’s afternoon tea charcuterie board

Breakfast and dinner are communal affairs at Mount Engadine. Guests sit together and chat about their outdoor adventures as food is served.

We met a mix of interesting people but what struck me most was that almost everyone was a returning guest. That always says a lot about a place. 

Scrabble board with plate of cake and cream on top, at Mount Engadine Lodge afternoon tea
Afternoon tea cake (brownies, two ways) at Mount Engadine Lodge

Mount Engadine offers a set three course dinner every day (think roast lamb, crusted fish, dauphinoise potatoes and other delights), but the kitchen team are able to cater to dietary requirements with advance notice.

Lunch is packed into a brown paper bag and available for pick-up after breakfast, ready to be enjoyed somewhere in the wilderness later. 

Blackboard with written menu (tossed summer salad, lamb sirloin and tiramisu) next to bar window, with bottles of wine lined up on shelves
Daily dinner menu at Mount Engadine Lodge

Accommodation at Mount Engadine Lodge

The accommodation options at Mount Engadine Lodge include: 

  • Glamping tents
  • Lodge rooms and suites
  • Cabins
  • And a yurt! 

All four types of Mount Engadine Lodge accommodation are available both summer and winter. The elevated glamping tents have gas fireplaces, making them super cosy even in the coldest temperatures. 

Wooden cabin on left with sun topped mountains above a meadow at Mount Engadine Lodge
Mount Engadine cabin with sunset views of Commonwealth and Birdwood peaks

Every room at Mount Engadine is a little bit different, with varying size, furnishings and views on offer.

Our studio cabin (named after nearby Birdwood Mountain) had a wonderfully snug window seat overlooking the nearby peaks. Outside, we enjoyed a shared deck with panoramas of the meadow below, backdropped by mountains.  

Made bed in cosy cabin, with water tray on bed and two comfortable chairs - Mount Engadine Lodge
Birdwood cabin at Mount Engadine Lodge

None of the rooms at Mount Engadine Lodge have televisions or phone signal and most are out of wi-fi range. This makes it easier to switch off and fully immerse yourself in the wilderness location.

Being disconnected from the world can be very soothing and definitely one of the reasons why I escape to the backcountry so often. 

JR sat on the Birdwood cabin window seat with mountain views behind
Birdwood cabin window seat at Mount Engadine Lodge

Book a stay at Mount Engadine Lodge on Booking.com.

Mount Engadine Lodge is a member of the Charming Inns of Alberta, a collection of 12 uniquely located and styled properties. Check out the other independently owned and operated resorts and B&Bs for some future travel inspo!

If you like the look of Mount Engadine, you may also like the Overlander Mountain Lodge which sits just outside Jasper National Park.

Three tent decks with Canada themed chairs at Mount Engadine Lodge
Three of the four glamping tents at Mount Engadine Lodge in the Kananaskis Valley

Kananaskis Valley hikes from Mount Engadine Lodge

The Kananaskis Valley is my new favourite place to go hiking in Canada. This area is truly spectacular and surprisingly quiet considering the proximity to both Calgary and Banff.

There are epic panoramas to rival neighbouring Banff National Park yet none of the crowds, fees and theme park vibe to go along with it.

Gemma standing in front of mountainous view, Burstall Pass hike near Mount Engadine Lodge
You’ll feel on top of the world when hiking in the Kananaskis Valley

Weekends are certainly busier but there’s still more than enough trails to go around in the Mount Engadine Lodge area. 

Mount Engadine Lodge provides an ideal base to discover a range of Kananaskis Valley hikes. The lodge is so well placed, in fact, that there are trailheads reachable within a couple of minutes walk. 

Another mountainous view from the Burstall Pass hike, Kananaskis Valley
Burstall Pass trail, a great example of amazing Kananaskis Valley hiking

My top picks for Kananaski Valley hikes, all accessible within 8km of Mount Engadine Lodge, are:

  • Tent Ridge
  • Rummel Lake
  • Burstall Pass
  • Watridge Lake
  • Karst Spring
  • High Rockies Trail

Read on for more information about each Kananaskis Valley hike and check out the map below for trailhead locations.

Not sure you have the skills to hike interpedently in the Kananaskis Valley? Consider a guided hike with a small group.

Tent Ridge

Only have time for one big hike while staying at Mount Engadine? Consider a trip up Tent Ridge, the rocky monolith that sits directly opposite the lodge.

The Tent Ridge hike offers spectacular 360 degree panoramas of the Kananaskis range and lakes, but it does require caution. 

This is not a hike for everyone (especially those with a fear of heights) and attempting it shouldn’t be taken lightly. The views from the top are simply breathtaking but ascending Tent Ridge involves some substantial scrambling.

Gemma scrambling at the top of rocky Tent Ridge, with epic lake and mountain views behind
Ascending Tent Ridge, one of Kananaskis Valley’s most impressive hikes

The journey along the ridge is exceptionally exposed to the elements, with steep drop offs, no shade and substantial elevation. This is not a place you want to experience hail, rain or a thunderstorm. Appropriate footwear and clothing is so important. 

Tent Ridge is probably the most challenging day hike I’ve ever done, but it is was also the most rewarding.

Plan to hike clockwise, bring a couple of warm layers (the ridge part of the hike is usually very windy) and hiking poles for an easier descent. There is lots of scree on the way down. 

Trail distance: 10km loop (5-6 hours)

Sloping mountains, highway and a lake on the Tent Ridge trail, one of the best hikes in the Kananaskis Valley
Endless mountains as seen from the Tent Ridge trail

Rummel Lake

For a trail a little closer to the ground (and Mount Engadine Lodge), make a beeline for the Rummel Lake hike. The trailhead is just across the road from the lodge turnoff.

The route quickly gains some elevation as it rushes to meet the High Rockies Trail (see below). There are some views to enjoy here before returning to the undulating path in the forest. 

Gemma hiking past a cascading waterfall, backdropped by mountains
Waterfall on the way to Rummel Lake

Near to the lake, the path splits in two to form a hiker path and a cross country one. The former stays close to the creek and passes a couple of cascading waterfalls.

The cross country route is wider and flatter, yet not as interesting. Both arrive on the eastern shore of the lake. 

Mirror lake reflections on Rummel Lake in the Kananaskis Valley
Rummel Lake, a beautiful Kananaskis Valley hiking reward

Though turquoise Rummel Lake is a perfectly satisfying destination, it is definitely worth the time to continue on up to Rummel Pass. The distance is short (an extra kilometre or so) and the payoff is fantastic.

Follow along the north shore of the lake and the trail eventually heads away and up from the water. It isn’t long before the route pulls out of the trees, revealing a wide pass lined with mountain peaks. 

Trail distance: 10km return + optional extra 2km (4 hours)

A dirt path through an alpine meadow with surrounding mouuntains - Rummel Pass
Hiking to Rummel Pass is definitely worth the extra effort (only around 1km from the lake!)

Burstall Pass

Burstall Pass, in our opinion, is the trail with the best reward-to-effort ratio in the Mount Engadine Lodge area. It has little technical difficulty but plenty of gorgeous vistas. The uphill sections are reasonably short and suitable for most hikers. 

Burstall Pass has three parts. Base your destination on available time and energy, though completing the full hike is preferable. The first section of the Burstall Pass hike features a wide trail in the forest.

Around the 3km mark, the forest opens to a wide creek area, surrounded by mountains. The creeks here are fairly fast flowing and some careful footwork is needed to stay dry and on the right path (look for the red markers). 

Gemma in front of a range of mountains oh the Burstall Pass trail, an example of amazing Kananaskis Valley hiking
Beautiful hiking on the Burstall Pass trail

From here, the Burstall Pass trail starts to ascend gradually, eventually reaching a meadow. If you time it right, the wildflowers here are fabulous. Beyond the meadow, there is another climb to the pass.

The Burstall Pass area is wonderful to explore; if you go far enough (and the weather is behaving), the trail crosses into Banff National Park and a view of iconic Mount Assiniboine appears. 

Trail distance: 15.5km return (5 hours)

Peaks and alpine meadows, with spots of snow on the Burstall Pass trail
Amazing views on the Burstall Pass trail in the Kananaskis Valley

Watridge Lake

If you’re looking for a less strenuous trail while staying at Mount Engadine, Watridge Lake is an ideal choice. We chose it for our final hike in the Kananaskis Valley, wanting something a little more relaxing after several days of challenging trails. 

The path from the Mount Shark trailhead (about five minutes drive from Mount Engadine) is wide and mostly flat, allowing for easy side-by-side hiking if you’re in a group.

Clear blue water lake with mountain range behind, the Watridge Lake trail near Mount Engadine Lodge
Watridge Lake, Kananaskis Valley

Despite being lined by forest, there are still glimpses to be had of surrounding peaks along the way.

With the route so straightforward, it won’t be long before you reach pretty Watridge Lake, accessible via a short descent off the main trail. Indeed, we were there in a pleasant 45 minutes. 

Stop at Watridge Lake if you like and take in the ever changing colours of the water, but I’d highly recommend continuing onto the Karst Spring (below) before you return the same way to the Mount Shark trailhead. 

Trail distance: 6.6km return (2 hours)

Wide, flat dirt path with mountain range in background - the Watridge Lake is an easy and rewarding Kananaskis Valley trail
The wide and mostly flat path of the Watridge Lake trail

Karst Spring

The Karst Spring bursts out from below a rock, creating a huge cascading waterfall through the forest. 

I’ve given this trail an entry of its own simply for the reason that the destination is so different to anything else we saw on any of our other Kananaskis Valley hikes.

The Karst Spring is only a short detour from Watridge Lake and is absolutely worth the extra time. 

From Watridge Lake, follow the signed Karst Spring trail to a wetland area. There are wooden beams leading the way across and into the forest beyond. The trail starts ascending here, but the roar of falling water (and the promise of a view!) also becomes louder.

Before you know it, you’ll be at the viewing platform at the top of the springs. Prepare to be impressed by the wild, crashing water, especially in the spring and early summer.

Due to the volume of the falls, keep particularly alert on this trail. The noise may quieten your approach.  

Trail distance: 1.6km return from Watridge Lake (30 minutes)

Gemma sat on log seat next to fast moving waterfall in forest - the Karst Spring trail
The Karst Spring is an impressive Kananaskis Valley hiking trail

High Rockies Trail

Part of the Great Trail (formerly known as the Trans Canada), the High Rockies Trail is a 80km multi-use route travelling between Goat Creek and Elk Pass.

Built as part of Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations in 2017, the High Rockies Trail runs roughly parallel to the Spray Lakes Reservoir, the Dorrien Smith highway and then Lower Kananaskis Lake. 

The section close to Mount Engadine Lodge is one of the most scenic, with elevated views of the aquamarine Spray Lakes Reservoir and surrounding mountains.

Above tree line view of Spray Lakes reservoir and mountains on the High Rockies trail
The view at the connector of the High Rockies and Rummel Lake trails

To access, follow the Rummel Lake trail until the High Rockies Trail itersection. From here, you can go either north (towards Buller Creek) or south (Chester Lake). Be sure to listen and watch for bicycles. 

Trail distance – variable

Gemma standing in front of mountainous views, High Rockies trail
Looking out at the views on the High Rockies trail

Blackshale Suspension Bridge

Another highlight of the High Rockies Trail is the 73m long Blackshale Suspension Bridge, located about 20km south of Mount Engadine. It provides passage over the Blackshale Creek.

A little bit further away than any of my other recommendations mentioned here, I still think it is worth a stop on the way to or from a stay at Mount Engadine Lodge. 

Suspension bridge leading from camera with mountainous backdrop
The Blackshale Suspension Bridge

To reach the suspension bridge, join the High Rockies Trail at the access point opposite the Black Prince trailhead and hike south for around 45 minutes. Return along the same route.

An alternative option if you just want to see the bridge is to continue driving along the Dorrien Smith and keep an eye out for the creek.

It is also possible to hike up one of the bypass trails (built for cyclists or hikers who may not want to brave the bridge) on both sides of the Blackshale Creek.

Gemma on the Blackshale Suspension Bridge
The Blackshale Suspension Bridge was built in 2017, to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday

What you need to know about Kananaskis Valley hiking

  • As always, it is so incredibly important to Leave No Trace when exploring outdoors. Stay on designated trails to reduce damage, pack out everything you bring in (including things like apple cores and orange peels), do not pick up or take away any natural objects. 
  • The Kananaskis Valley has a healthy bear population. Make plenty of noise on the trail and carry bear spray to use as a last resort. It is preferable to travel in groups. 
  • Never, ever feed or approach wild animals. Doing so effectively kills the animal as they will lose their fear of humans. And, of course, it is dangerous for you too. 
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Avoid cotton (we always wear merino wool) and bring extra layers. Weather conditions can change quickly in the Kananaskis Valley. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. 
  • Pack the 10 Essentials on every hike. They could save your life, or the life of someone else. Unforeseen delays can and do happen and you should be prepared for it. 
  • Besides using a map, I’d also recommend downloading the excellent Maps.me app for navigation. All of the above trails are featured. The Tent Ridge trail, in particular, can be hard to follow. 
  • The trailheads in the Kananaskis Valley are not always well marked. The Maps.me app (mentioned above) is a great source of reference for this. 
  • Afternoon tea at Mount Engadine Lodge costs $17.50 per person for a charcuterie board, dessert and unlimited tea/coffee. It is also possible to purchase each item separately, if you’re not that hungry (in that case, go hike some more!)

Thank you to Mount Engadine Lodge for hosting us during our summer visit to the Kananaskis Valley. All opinions are our own, including those about the Tent Ridge trail (yep, that hike did push my limits!)

The Kananaskis Valley has mountain panoramas to rival neighbouring Banff National Park yet none of the crowds, fees and theme park vibe to go along with it. Mount Engadine Lodge provides an ideal base to discover a range of Kananaskis Valley hikes. Here are six must do hikes! offtracktravel.ca
The Kananaskis Valley is a year round playground for outdoor adventurers. In summer, it is a hiker's nirvana. The range and variety of hiking in the Kananaskis Valley is quite frankly, nothing short of phenomenal. Click here to discover must do hikes plus the best base to enjoy them from! offtracktravel.ca
Imagine a place with all of the incredible mountain vistas of Banff National Park but none of the mass tourism. This is Alberta's Kananaskis Valley and the best way to explore is from Mount Engadine Lodge, a road accessible wilderness lodge with all the comforts of civilisation. Click here to more info! offtracktravel.ca

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