This is a great, short hike that starts at beautiful Upper Kananaskis Lake. If I have visitors from out of town, I always bring them here. It’s a very approachable hike for novices and has everything you want in a Rocky Mountain hiking experience – a stunning lake, lush forest, a waterfall, beautiful views and an even a natural rock amphitheater.
The hike starts at the Upper Kananaskis lake parking lot on the south shore. Follow trail clockwise around the lake, past a small waterfall and then ascend into the forest at the Rawson Lake trail junction. It’s a steady incline of switchbacks through
It’s a steady incline of switchbacks through a lush forest for several kilometres, but the journey is rewarded by a beautiful emerald green lake at the top, dramatically backed by a rock wall. The path continues around the left side of the lake, and those wanting more can take the short but steep trail up to Sarelle Ridge for an incredible view of the neighbouring valley.
This is a great spot for lunch and photos. Sometimes you can hear rocks crumble off the rock wall into the lake, so be careful exploring in the area directly under the wall. Even in the middle of summer, you can sometimes find snow up here. It’s a beautiful spot to relax before returning back down the same way.
