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Upper Kananaskis Lake

Beautiful section of trail between Boat Launch and Interlakes.  Mt. Indefatiguable just right of center, Mt. Lyauteu left; Mt. Putnik in between

November 4, 2016

Circuit around upper Kananaskis lake is extremely scenic any time of the year.  Trip is fairly undemanding as there is little elevation gain, making it suitable for less experienced and/or fit hikers.   Most scenic portion is 4km stretch between Boat launch and Interlakes -- highly recommended when time is short or enthusiasm low for full loop.  North side is more sunny, while shadier south side below Mt. Sarrail has long stretch through trees, but in calm conditions offers fantastic reflections of Mt. Indefatiguable.  Side trip to Hidden Lake below towering Mt. Lyauteu is pleasant extension that allows taste of Aster lake trail

There are 2 possible starts -- Boat Launch parking area or North Interlakes.   Boat Launch and counter-clockwise direction are recommended for best light conditions from photography perspective.  Trail crosses the Upper Lake dam, then meanders around small bays with sweeping views west across the lake towards Mt. Putnik.  Section just before Interlakes can be icy in late fall season.   From Interlakes cross the intake pipe on steel bridge then follow Three Isle Lake trail on north side, taking lower branch.  Cycling is allowed on this section.  There are some outstanding views south towards Mt. Sarrail, Mt. Foch and The Turret from this stretch.  Only significant elevation gain is brief climb to top of Palliser slide; look back for sweeping views SE across the lake towards Mt. Pocaterra.  Trail then descends to west side and beautifully situated Point Campground with great lakefront tent sites -- what a fantastic place to wake up!   This would also be great choice for first overnight experience, or family backpack trip.  Next highlight are Lower Kananaskis Falls and bridge over Kananaskis River, 10-15 minutes past the campground.   Trail continues towards the west side; this section is least interesting as travel is mainly through trees.  Aster Lake junction is reached about 20-30 minutes past the bridge.  It is unmarked but obvious.  If time (and energy) allows, it is worth hiking first part --about a kilometer-- to Hidden Lake.  This is typical sinkhole, and depending on time of year water level can vary from full requiring bushwhack when heading for Aster Lake to  completely dried / empty in late fall season.   Remainder of Lake Circuit follows south side and offers some fantastic views of Mt. Indefatiguable. Eventually trail reaches  marked Rawson Lake junction. Upper Lake parking and end of the loop is 10-15 minutes from bridge across Sarrail creek, rebuild past 2013 historic floods.

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