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Who We Are

Local Experts

Guided excursions and experiences. High-quality rentals. Mountain lifestyle retail.

We want everyone to get out and play in the mountains! It should be simple—pick up some gear, grab a map and some info, and hit the trails.

Our Story

Kananaskis Outfitters started out as a small rental shop that Michelle bought in 2006. After selling all the old gear KO has always been committed to renting high quality, new sporting equipment.

In 2008, she started offering guided tours and has expanded that business to offer a wide variety of year-round experiences. In 2011 KO extended their rentals to the beachfront on Barrier Lake, opening Barrier Lake Boat Rentals.

In 2013 KO moved to a different location in the same building expanding the shop’s small retail section. KO now offers mountain lifestyle clothing and gear, and prides themselves on a unique shopping experience with expert-level customer service.

Meet the Team

Masters of Amazing Experiences
Lead Guide & Tour Coordinator

Chelsea was born in Edmonton, AB, and graduated from the U of A with a degree in environmental sciences and outdoor education. Chelsea gained prior guiding experience in Alberta and South Australia before moving to Kananaskis. She loves hiking, backpacking, running, paddling, climbing, and skiing, as well as learning about the flora and fauna of the area. When not out and about, Chelsea can be found baking cookies, painting, or trying to learn a new skill.

Rental & Retail Associate

Miriam Lowery is an illustrator and designer born in Fort St John, BC before moving with her family to the plains of Stony Plain, AB then down to Calgary to be closer to the mountains. Miriam finds inspiration among the forests and the Rocky Mountain ranges as she builds herself up in the place she loves most. When she’s not drawing in her free time, she is hiking, swimming, skiing, or cycling.

Guide & Shop Associate

My name is Autumn! As a nature enthusiast and adventure guide, I have a deep-rooted love for hiking and climbing that has been shaped by my upbringing in the stunning landscapes of Calgary, Alberta. With years of experience exploring the great outdoors, I find joy in sharing the breathtaking beauty of the mountains with others. Guiding people through the mountains is not just a job for me—it’s a passion.

    Michelle

    Founder – Owner 

    Michelle loves to get outside with people of all ages and abilities. After moving from Ontario to work as a dog sled guide in the mountains for a season, she was hooked. With endless recreational opportunities and stunning mountain views, how could you ever leave?

    Michelle studied Adventure Tourism in northern Ontario, then worked as a raft guide, canoe guide, hiking guide and dog sled guide before opening Kananaskis Outfitters.

    Hobbies and Passions

    • Cross-country & downhill skiing
    • Mountain biking
    • Canoeing
    • Adventuring with her kids

    Amy

    Manager

    Amy was sprouted and grown in Airdrie, AB. Amy was drawn to the mountains viewed out her back window. She made the trek to K-Country one lovely summer and never looked back. Amy has worked numerous roles throughout the park including many years with Alberta Parks which has given her a vast knowledge of the mountains. 

    She enjoys paddling, mountain biking, and skiing of all sorts. When cozied at home she can be found swinging in a hammock in the trees with a campfire nearby and a tune playing in her ear.

    Hobbies and Passions

    • Mountain biking
    • Stand up paddleboarding
    • Spending time with family and friends