Kananaskis

Kananaskis

If you’ve never heard of Kananaskis, in Alberta, Canada, it’s likely because it sits directly in the shadow of the giant that is Banff. There’s no other reason why it wouldn’t be a massive name itself—it has incredible lakes, gorgeous waterfalls, high-mountain peaks, top-notch hiking… the list goes on! But, of course, its understated nature is part of what I loved about it. The less-boisterous, younger sibling, so to speak. There were definitely people there, it’s not unknown, but the traffic was nothing in comparison to the insanity I witnessed at its neighbor to the north. 

I initially heard about Kananaskis through one of those serendipitous events that so easily happens on the road. While camping at the amazing campsite that kept me around Abraham Lake longer than expected, I met my camp neighbor who was out walking her dogs. We started chatting and it turns out that she works in the Kananaskis Visitor Center. She kindly shared a few places and hikes that might interest me, which I hastily added to my Google Maps. 

After briefly touring Banff, I headed south and ended up spending an entire week exploring the beauty of Kananaskis. What an amazing place! I would have gladly stayed longer but I was afraid my legs would fall off, as I did six hikes in seven days and didn’t appear capable of resting. There was just so much to see!

In addition to sharing her Kananaskis recommendations, my camp neighbor mentioned a national park that I’d never heard of before and, seeing as it was along the route I planned to take in order to cross back into The States, I added it to my (non-existent) itinerary. Before heading directly there, however, I decided to spend a few days relaxing, recharging and unwinding around the small town of Coleman, Alberta—in the Crowsnest area. I was so tired after Kananaskis that, for the few days I was in Coleman, I hardly left camp. But I did make sure to check out a few of the local waterfalls before leaving town, which were actually very pleasant surprises. 

Finally, after a few much needed days of rest, I hopped back in the van and made the short drive south towards what would become my final stop in Canada: the incredible Waterton Lakes National Park.

“Kananaskis Country spans more than 4,000 sq km (1,544 sq mi) of protected parks, wildland areas, and recreation zones along the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies. Its landscapes range from rolling foothills to alpine peaks, with lakes, rivers, and valleys offering year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure.”

– www.explorecanmore.ca