These are the lesser known, but equally as beautiful places to visit in the Canadian Rocky Mountains! This is actually where we’ve spent a lot of our time, as we find it to be much less busy than Jasper or Banff National Parks, but just as action packed and stunning!
Crescent Falls: EASY
This is a popular short hike in the Kananaskis area. But if you travel down a short, steep path, you can walk right up to the waterfall! This is an incredible experience that I highly recommend. If you’re feeling really brave, you can even swim right up to the waterfall (please be careful, of course!)
ABRAHAM LAKE: EASY
This lake is known for the methane bubbles that create large white bubbles under the ice. If you’re looking for a fun activity to do in the winter, this is it! Be sure to dress warm though, as the winds are harsh over the lake. Abraham Lake is a bright turquoise in the summer, and it’s nice to walk along the beach as it really isn’t busy! We also discovered recently that there is a “Public Land” area right beside the beach where you can camp for free with a lakefront view!
Ptarmigan Cirque: MODERATE
This is a moderate hike with a steep section at the beginning. The views are stunning as you walk between the mountains, through wildflowers and beside waterfalls!
WEST WIND PASS: MODERATE
This is a beautiful day hike if you’re looking for a moderate challenge. It is true to it’s name though, and is VERY windy. Be sure to wear layers, including a wind breaker!
EEOR: CHALLENGING
The day we hiked EEOR, we had actually planned to hike Ha Ling Peak for a photoshoot. But when we arrived, Ha Ling was closed for construction! So we decided to do EEOR instead, and it was TOUGH. We took the wrong path going up, so nearly the entire hike ended up being a scramble. So definitely look up the CORRECT way to do the hike before heading out there! All that to say, this hike was so fun, slightly terrifying and SO worth it. The views at the top were jaw-dropping! (If you’re scared of heights, this might not be a good choice for you)
WHERE TO STAY:
Sundance Lodge: Ok, I haven’t stayed here YET. But these teepees look like they would be SO fun!!
Spray Lakes West Campground. We’ve camped here a few times. While it’s a bit of a drive to get there, it’s so serene! Just note that there is no cellphone reception halfway up the mountain, so make sure you know where you’re going and have any possible hikes planned out so you don’t have to go back into town to get a cellphone signal (been there haha!). I believe all of the campsites are first-come first-served, and we’ve always been able to find a spot even on busy summer weekends! If you arrive early or on a weekday, some of the sites are so private with the most amazing mountain views!
Waterfowl Lakes Campground: The views here are less impressive than Spray Lakes West Campground, but the location is excellent! Located close to Peyto Lake and Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway, it’s a great place to stop for a night! I loved that they include the price of firewood into your fee for the night, and provide unlimited firewood!
Georgetown Inn: This is our favourite place to stay! The lobby is very old and hasn’t been redone, but the rooms have recently been completely remodeled and are gorgeous! Some of them have a giant soaker tub, which is the perfect treat after a long day of hiking! In the off season, it’s common to score a room here for under $100!
