Take the Scenic Route and Discover Highwood Pass
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- Tourism Canmore Kananaskis - March 18, 2025
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Winding through the heart of Kananaskis Country is one of the most scenic roads in Alberta: Highwood Pass.
At an elevation of 2,206 m (7,239 ft), Highwood Pass holds the title of the highest paved road in Canada. This mountain highway is 54 km (34 mi) of panoramic vistas, invigorating hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Accessible from Canmore, Banff, and Calgary, you can choose to spend the day out in nature or take the scenic route around the Highwood Pass Loop Drive.
As a key wildlife corridor, Highwood Pass is closed to vehicle traffic from December 1 to June 14 every year to protect wildlife during migration and birthing seasons. Be sure to plan accordingly.
#1 Cruise Along the Open Road
Take in the unfiltered beauty of the Highwood Pass Loop Drive as you drive to the summit of one of the most picturesque routes in Canada. The area features extraordinary geological wonders, like thrust faults where ancient rock layers have shifted over time to form the Canadian Rockies. These jaw-dropping views will leave you with a feeling of astonishment and awe, transforming the way you live in the world.
#2 Cycle Highwood Pass
In early June, there is a small window where Highwood Pass is both snow-free and car-free, making it a popular area for cyclists. However, even after the pass re-opens to vehicle traffic, you can still bike along the shoulder throughout the summer months.
If you’re confident in your cycling abilities, you can start your journey at either of the Highwood Pass gates and cycle the entire pass (out-and-back) for a total of 108 km (61 miles) with 1,267 m (4,157 ft) of elevation gain. Or consider a one-way trip starting at the gate nearest Longview, cycle 37 km to Highwood Pass, and descend 17 km to the gate by King Creek.
Remember to pack snacks and water and take extra layers of warm clothes. Highwood Pass is notoriously windy, and mountain weather changes quickly. Always use your best judgement and be prepared to turn around if needed.
#3 Explore the Best Hikes in Highwood Pass
The mountain valleys surrounding Highwood Pass are packed with shale ridgelines, towering peaks, and alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. If you’re up for a trek, here are some must-do hikes in Highwood Pass.
Distances and difficulties are approximate and subjective. Please do your own research when selecting a hike and learn how to be prepared for your adventure.
Elbow Lake/Edworthy Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.7 km (2.3 mi) loop
Elevation Gain: 163 m (535 ft)
Ptarmigan Cirque
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 4.5 km (2.8 mi) loop
Elevation Gain: 210 m (700 ft)
Arethusa Cirque
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4.5 km (2.8 mi) loop
Elevation Gain: 324 m (1063 ft)
Picklejar Lakes
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.4 km (5.2 mi)
Elevation Gain: 450 m (1475 ft)
Pocaterra Ridge
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 9.8 km point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 708 m (2559 ft)
Ready to explore the highest pass in Canada? Adventure awaits!
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.