Small Group Kananaskis Highlights Tour from Calgary
Active
9h
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About this experience
Optimized for maximum variety, light walking, and photography, this journey is a one-day highlight reel of some of Kananaskis Country's most iconic landmarks from Calgary.
See exactly why this world-class landscape was selected to host the 2025 G7 Summit as we explore the 'quiet side' of the Canadian Rockies. Kananaskis Country offers a rugged, 'wilder' alternative to the neighbouring national parks: quieter trails, less development, and fewer crowds.
On this multi-stop tour we explore turquoise lakes, rapids & waterfalls, and the highest paved pass in Canada, deviating from our usual hike-based Kananaskis itineraries to focus on a sequence of diverse, high-impact ecosystems. The ideal choice for those seeking a varied, 'best-of' mountain experience.
- Small group experience (max. 11 participants)
- Pick-up in north-west Calgary
- Includes a fresh field lunch and refreshments on the go
- Easy to moderate hiking, suitable for most fitness levels
Available options
Small Group Kananaskis Highlights Tour from Calgary
Pickup included
What's included
Private, door-to-door transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
Field lunch and refreshments including drinking water refills
National/Provincial Park passes and permits
Parking
Hiking poles and microspikes/ice cleats (if winter conditions)
Local, certified guide
Detailed itinerary
1
A stop at the Kananaskis River to see the rapids. This is a popular spot for kayakers and rafters, with a mostly flat ~2km (each way) trail running alongside the canyon.
2
A large reservoir offering expansive views of the front range mountains and turquoise water – the first major body of water we encounter after turning south off the Trans-Canada Highway.
3
Our longest individual stop of the day. This area brings an excellent forest-meadow-falls contrast as we wander mossy trails to the tiered cascades of Troll Falls – one of the region's favourites and a stunning year-round destination. Depending on the time spent at the falls, we have the option for a slower walk back to the van through an open valley meadow along the Kananaskis River.
4
Moving into Spray Valley Provincial Park, this quiet pond features a 1km loop trail and is well-known for its mountain reflections and larch trees – particularly beautiful with the fall colours of late September to early October.
5
We drive deeper into the backcountry of Peter Lougheed Provincial Park to visit the shoreline and inspiring views of this large alpine lake. One for your next visit: a 15km trail circles the entire lake!
6
SEASONAL - Highway 40, from which we'll reach all of our stops for the day, is a destination in its own right. Single lane in each direction and much quieter than the main highway to Banff, the drive is spectacular – offering panoramic mountain views on all sides and frequent wildlife sightings. Between mid June and the end of November, we are able to drive up to Highwood Pass – the highest paved road in all of Canada at 2,206m.
What's not included
Participant travel insurance
Personal expenses (such as souvenirs or gifts), and any additional snacks, meals, or beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
ES
Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Clothing & Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (insulated for winter) and adaptable layers (avoid cotton). Check weather conditions before departure.
Personal Gear: Please bring a small daypack, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle (refills provided).
Technical Gear: We provide hiking poles and microspikes/ice cleats if needed. USB-A charging ports are available in the van—please bring your own cable.
Child Seats: required by law for under 6yrs (≤18kg). Not provided; please bring your own if needed.
Waiver: required for all guests before departure.
Changes/Cancellations: please contact us to discuss.
Minimum 4 participants required for this tour to run; full refund or alternative dates/experience offered if this number is not met.
About Calgary
Calgary, known as the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends urban energy with stunning natural beauty. It's famous for its annual Calgary Stampede, a world-renowned rodeo and festival, and offers easy access to the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies.
Top Attractions
Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is the greatest outdoor show on earth, featuring rodeos, chuckwagon races, live music, and much more. It's a must-visit event held annually in July.
Cultural
10 days
Free entry to the grounds, tickets required for some events
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Free entry with a Parks Canada pass
Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. It's a great place to learn about Calgary's history and enjoy a meal with a view.
Architecture
1-2 hours
$19 CAD for adults, $10 CAD for children
Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park is Canada's largest living history museum, showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Visitors can explore historic buildings, ride vintage trains, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Historical
3-4 hours
$29.95 CAD for adults, $17.95 CAD for children
Prince's Island Park
Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of Calgary. It's a great place for picnics, walks, and outdoor concerts. The park is also home to the Calgary Folk Music Festival and other events.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Beef Brisket
Slow-cooked, tender beef brisket is a Calgary staple, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan
Bison Burger
A delicious and lean alternative to beef, bison burgers are a popular choice in Calgary.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan
Butter Chicken
A beloved Indian dish, butter chicken is a creamy, spicy curry made with tender chicken pieces.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan, contains dairy
Caesar Cocktail
A Canadian classic, the Caesar cocktail is a spicy, savory drink made with vodka, Clamato juice, and various seasonings.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Picnicking in parks
Yoga and meditation
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Calgary for warm weather and outdoor activities. It's also when the Calgary Stampede takes place, a major event not to be missed.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Punjabi, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
GMT-7 (Mountain Time Zone)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Calgary is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Calgary International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Calgary Station
By bus
Calgary Transit Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The CTrain is efficient, frequent, and a popular way to get around Calgary. It's free to ride downtown.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Beltline
Kensington
Innisfail
Day trips
Banff National Park
130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight
Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Canmore
100 km (62 miles) • Half day or full day
Canmore is a charming mountain town located near Banff National Park, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning scenery.
Drumheller
135 km (84 miles) • Full day
Drumheller is a town in the Canadian Badlands, known for its unique geological features, dinosaur fossils, and the famous Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Festivals
Calgary Stampede • July
Calgary Folk Music Festival • Early July
Calgary International Film Festival • Mid-September
Pro tips
- Visit during the Calgary Stampede for a unique and unforgettable experience, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
- Explore the city's extensive park system, including Prince's Island Park and the Bow River Pathway, for a taste of Calgary's natural beauty.
- Take advantage of the city's excellent public transit system, including the CTrain and buses, to get around easily and affordably.
- Try local specialties, such as beef brisket and bison burgers, and don't miss out on the city's thriving coffee and craft beer scenes.
- Dress in layers, as the weather in Calgary can change quickly, especially in the spring and fall.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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