Discover the Best Waterfall and Lakeside Hikes in Kananaskis

In the midst of Alberta’s Canadian Rockies, Canmore and Kananaskis offer some of the most scenic hiking trails in the world. Read our guide to the best hikes that lead you to serene bodies of water and mesmerizing waterfalls. These trails promise stunning views of waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes.

Distances and elevation gain are approximate and difficulties are subjective. Please do your own research when selecting a hike and learn how to prepare for your adventure.

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2.6 km (1.6 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 135 m (446 ft)

Cat Creek Falls is a lovely, short hike to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all ages, making it an ideal family outing. In the summer, this trail never ceases to amaze with a variety of colourful wildflowers.

Distance: 3.7 km (2.3 mi) loop

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 163 m (535 ft)

Troll Falls is a popular family-friendly hike that follows a creek and leads to a charming waterfall. The trail is relatively flat and easy, making it perfect for hikers of all ages. In winter, the falls freeze into a stunning natural ice sculpture, adding a magical touch to the landscape. In the spring and fall, this is a great location to spot the majestic Golden Eagle on their migratory path. Troll Falls is a great choice for a short, relaxing hike with a rewarding view.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance: 3.4 km (2.1 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 125 m (410 ft)

Grassi Lakes is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. This short yet rewarding hike takes you through lush, forested paths and offers two trail options: an easy, stroller-friendly trail along a gravel path and a more challenging route with rocky steps and stunning views of Canmore. Both paths lead you to the turquoise waters of Grassi Lakes, perfect for a family picnic under Ha Ling Peak. Don’t forget to look up – this is a popular climbing area and you may spot some folks on the surrounding rock walls!

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 4.0 km (2.5 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 174 m (243 ft)

Elbow Lake is a short and easy hike suitable for families and beginners. The trailhead is located off Highway 40 in Kananaskis Country, and the hike quickly brings you to the serene waters of Elbow Lake. Once you reach the lake, you can continue the loop and circle around the peaceful waters.

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 7.4 km (4.6 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 156 m (512 ft)

Watridge Lake is a scenic hike located in Spray Valley Provincial Park in Kananaskis Country. The trail is relatively flat and follows an old fire road through forests and alpine meadows. The clear waters of Watridge Lake provide a peaceful setting for a picnic, and the surrounding mountain views are spectacular. In the winter, this is a highly popular cross-country ski trail.

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 4 km (2.5 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 159 m (522 ft)

Black Prince Cirque is a relatively short but steep hike that packs a lot of beauty into a small area. The trail takes you through lush forests to a stunning cirque, a natural amphitheatre surrounded by towering cliffs. The small lake within the cirque reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a perfect spot for nature photographers. From here, you’re only a hop, skip, and jump from the iconic Black Shale Suspension Bridge.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance: Varies

Elevation Gain: Varies

They say don’t go chasing waterfalls – we disagree! The trails to Kananaskis Falls and Upper Kananaskis Falls are a must-visit. These picturesque hikes offer varying distances and difficulties, making them exciting for all skill levels. The falls are a breathtaking reward, with cascading waters that create a serene soundtrack for your hike. The trails in this area also provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 9.2 km (5.7 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 276 m (876 ft)

Karst Springs is a delightful hike that takes you to a unique natural spring. The trail is relatively easy, with some moderate sections, and follows a picturesque route through the forest. The crystal-clear waters of the springs and the surrounding limestone formations create a magical setting.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 7.4 km (4.6 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 380 m (1247 ft)

Located in Spray Valley Provincial Park in Kananaskis Country, Chester Lake is a locally-known gem. The trail meanders through vibrant alpine meadows, especially beautiful during the wildflower season. The tranquil lake, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, is an ideal spot for a serene day in nature. This trail is particularly popular in the fall when the larch trees transform into a golden yellow.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 11.1 km (6.9 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 432 m (1417 ft)

Rummel Lake is a hidden treasure in the Smith-Dorrien Valley in Kananaskis Country. Across from the renowned Mount Engadine Lodge, this moderate hike winds through dense forests and open meadows, offering stunning views of Mount Galatea and the Spray Lakes Reservoir. The tranquil lake is a perfect place to soak in the natural beauty of Kananaskis Country.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 12.9 km (8 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 616 m (2021 ft)

Hidden Lake lives up to its name, offering a secluded spot away from the more crowded trails. This moderate hike takes you through varied terrain, including forests and open areas with mountain views. The serene and picturesque Hidden Lake is an excellent place for a quiet retreat and a refreshing swim.

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

Distance: 12.5 km (7.7 mi) / 16.4 km (10.2 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 577 m (1893 ft) / 838 m (2749 ft)

The hike to Lillian Lake and Galatea Lakes is a challenging but incredibly rewarding adventure. The trail winds through dense forests, crosses babbling brooks, and climbs steep terrain to reach the serene Lillian Lake. From there, the more ambitious can continue to the upper Galatea Lakes, where breathtaking views and pristine waters await. This hike is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of Kananaskis Country.

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

Distance: 8.9 km (5.5 mi) / 11.4 km (7 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 423 m (1388 ft) / 900 m (2953 ft)

Rawson Lake is a beautiful alpine lake nestled beneath the towering cliffs of Mount Sarrail. The trail starts from Upper Kananaskis Lake and gradually climbs through dense forest, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains. Once you reach Rawson Lake, the serene setting will leave you in awe. If you want to extend your hike, continue up the mountain to Sarrail Ridge. This is a much more challenging option, so be prepared to work hard to earn your reward of picture-perfect views of Rawson Lake and the Kananaskis Lakes.

These trails are best hiked in groups of four or more, as this is a hotspot for grizzly bear activity. Make sure you read up on wildlife safety before making this trek!

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 19.5 km (12.1 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 595 m ( 952 ft)

Tombstone Lake is a long and challenging hike that takes you deep into the wilderness of Kananaskis. The trail traverses through dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain. The reward is the stunning Tombstone Lake, surrounded by imposing peaks and offering a true backcountry experience. This hike is ideal for experienced hikers seeking solitude and breathtaking scenery.

Exploring the waterfalls and lakes of Canmore and Kananaskis offers an astonishing adventure through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Alberta. Each trail offers unique experiences and views. These hikes are not just about the destination; they are about the journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

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In Canmore and Kananaskis, our natural ecosystems and stunning landscapes are the heart and soul of our local mountain culture. Before your visit, we encourage you to sign the Pledge to the Peaks, committing to mindful exploration to ensure the safety of all inhabitants of the region and preserve the beauty of our unfiltered wilderness for generations to come.