Kananaskis is home to what some people consider the best scenic views in Alberta. We’re sure being located within the Rockies is definitely helping its case.
According to Explore Kananaskis, the area is a 4,000-square-kilometre park system and includes multiple provincial parks, recreation areas and public lands. Kananaskis is a go-to spot for any and all outdoor activities, as well as those looking to reconnect with themselves and nature. Here, you’ll be able to find everything from backcountry hiking to luxurious Nordic spa experiences.
If you’re looking to take a trip out into the wild this season, we’ve rounded up all the information to help your visit go as smoothly as possible. Let’s jump into things, shall we?
What to know before visiting Kananaskis
When is the best time to visit Kananaskis?
Depending on what you want to do or how you want to enjoy your time, every season has something different to offer.
According to Explore Canmore and Kananaskis, this fall season will be offering crisp days, fewer crowds, and the iconic golden larch trees. In winter, it’s ideal for cold-weather activities, while spring is best for its great value, and summer is peak season with all its outdoor offerings.
What’s the best way to get to Kananaskis?
Explore Kananaskis outlines several ways to get into the area, with air, car, and bus all being viable options.
For those opting to take a bus into the area, FlixBus launched a route from Calgary to Kananaskis in November 2025. The route includes stops at:
If you do take the bus, the service connects with the free Explore Kananaskis Bus, which provides easy access to top destinations within the region.
Though, as of today, Wednesday, Sept. 16, there are no upcoming trips planned for this route.
What is the Explore Kananaskis Bus?
This hop-on, hop-off shuttle is a free, first-come, first-served bus for all visitors in the area that takes guests to some of the most popular spots within Kananaskis. The stops on the route change seasonally but always include a trip to the Village Centre.
You don’t need any reservations, and the bus is pet-friendly (with the note that all pets must remain on leashes and the allowance is at the driver’s discretion).
For all route information and updates (as well as the schedule itself), we’d suggest checking out the bus’s website before hopping aboard.
Do I need the Kananaskis Conservation Pass?
Those planning to park a vehicle at the provincial park and public land sites in Kananaskis Country and Bow Valley will need a Conservation Pass. This does not apply to those who are just travelling through the area without stopping or those who are arriving without a vehicle.
With each pass purchased, the Government of Alberta claims you’ll be helping pay for conservation, public safety, and services and facilities within the area.
A day pass for one personal vehicle is $15, while a yearly pass includes up to three vehicles for $90. There is no additional cost for extra passengers or trailers. There are also free pass days on the first Wednesday of every month as well as select days and holidays outlined on the Government of Alberta website.
You’re able to buy your pass online and register your licence plate. Passes can also be purchased in-person at the Kananaskis Visitor Information Centre.
What are the best things to do in the area?
There are loads of great things to do within the Kananaskis area, including:
- Kananaskis Nordic Spa
- This Nordic spa experience takes over 50,000 square feet, with five outdoor pools, six saunas and steam cabins, eight massage treatment rooms, an exfoliation cabin, and outdoor fire pits and seating to stay warm and relax. (The spa is currently going through a transformation and will be closed on Sept. 29 and from Oct. 13 to 27.)
- Boundary Ranch
- Have you ever dreamed of exploring the Alberta Rockies on horseback? Well, thanks to Boundary Ranch and its extensive collection of rides, you’ll be able to bring that dream into reality.
- Kananaskis Outfitters
- These tours and excursions are available for all ages and abilities, led by local experts with years of experience in the valley. From canoe tours to survival hikes, you’ll get the full outdoor experience with these journeys.
Besides these three spots and businesses to check out, the area is great for fishing, golfing, hiking, stargazing, and so much more.
Where are the best places to stay?
Some of the highlighted places to stay, according to Explore Kananaskis, include:
Can I camp in Kananaskis?
You are able to camp in the area, with two broad types of camping in Kananaskis: vehicle-access and backcountry.
Vehicle-access camping includes either individual campsites or group camping areas; you can check out the Kananaskis Interactive Map for an overview of these areas. These campgrounds will range from full hook-ups (power, water and sewer) to basic with no services.
For more information on everything camping-related, you might want to visit the Alberta Parks website before you pack your bags.
Where: Directions (Just under four hours away from Edmonton; one hour from Calgary)
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Alyssa Gallardo
Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.
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