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7 Things You Need to Do in Kananaskis Before All the Snow Melts

There’s a whole lot to do in Kananaskis and we want to make sure you get the most of it!

We just going to come right out and say it: it is COLD. It’s been an especially cold winter in the Canadian Rockies, to say the least. Though many of us are dreaming of warmer days and starting to plan for spring and summer adventures, winter is here to stay for a little while longer.

Rather than hibernating, we want to help you face and embrace the remaining winter months in the best way possible: unique and scenic winter adventures. From moonlight snowshoe tours to awesome programming at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, we’ve got you covered out here in Kananaskis Country. Here are 7 things to keep you busy this month in Kananaskis:

A Stargazing Snowshoe Tour

Join Kananaskis Outfitters for an unforgettable snowshoe tour through the Kananaskis Forest. When the sun goes down the forest comes alive with outstanding sights and sounds you may not notice in the light of day. An expert guide will lead you through the trails, pointing out animal tracks and traces along the way. In addition, you’ll learn about the awe-inspiring spread of stars that unfolds above you. See Kananaskis in a new light, learn some fun and interesting facts to share with your friends, and enjoy a unique experience in the wild. This low-impact hike is perfect for all ages (12+) and abilities. Click here to learn more book your tour.

The Great Canadian Sugar Rush

From March 22nd – March 24th, Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is hosting an amazing winter festival as a tribute to Canadian winter culture. Kananaskis Outfitters will be offering snowshoe tours, a massive outdoor winter Olympics, and more. On top of that, guests can enjoy an artisan market, all the maple they can eat, children, teens, and adult programming, mountain yoga, and so much more. This is not an event that can be missed! On top of all that, it’s located in the Canadian Rockies. Does it get much better than that? Click here.

Rent Fat Bikes or Go on a Fat Biking Tour

If you love biking, don’t let a little snow stop you! Fat biking is an awesome way to experience your favourite two-wheeled sport year-round. Kananaskis Outfitters offers a Fat Bike Frozen Waterfall Tour that is the perfect way to experience fat biking and the gorgeous K-Country at the same time. If you’re a seasoned biker or fat biker already, come rent bikes and take off on your own. The tour does require some biking experience. Trust us, you’re going to be as obsessed as we are with fat biking the second you hop on. Click here for tour details.

Enjoy Spring Break Programming in Kananaskis

Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge will be hosting spring break events and activities from March 25th – April 6th, 2019. Throughout the week, guests can experience unique teen activities, family activities, and entertainment nights for people of all ages. Here is just a little taste of what’s going on: a Kananaskis Amazing Race by Kananaskis Outfitters, dreamcatcher-making workshops, family entertainment night, mountain yoga, Winter Olympics by KO, and more. Spring Break in Kananaskis is sure to be memorable and one of a kind! Click here for more information.

Go Skating or Play a Game of Hockey

Nestled within the cozy and welcoming Kananaskis Village sits a small skating pond perfect for lacing up and enjoying some relaxing and enchanting winter laps. You can rent skates at Kananaskis Outfitters. If you’re looking for something a little more fast-paced, you can also rent hockey sticks and head out to the rink to play shinny! No matter what your skating style is, we can hook you up with everything you need.

Go Cross-Country Skiing in Breathtaking Surroundings

Cross-Country skiing is an excellent way to get your outdoor cardio in while there’s snow on the ground. Whether you’re looking for a guided trip, need to rent your gear, or want to venture out solo with your own gear, Kananaskis Outfitters has the info, gear, and experience to give you the exact adventure you’re in the market for. You won’t believe how still and silent the Kananaskis wild feels once you’ve got a few kms behind you. Click here for tour info.

At Kananaskis Outfitters we are committed to getting people outside exploring all year round. We’ll help remove any barriers standing between you and the great outdoors while giving you exactly what you need to try something different and have a blast in Kananaskis. If you want to hop on one of our tours or rent gear for your winter adventure in Kananaskis, it’s not too late! But, time is ticking. Let’s get the most of what little winter is left before we start planning our summer adventures.

See you soon!

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  • Phone:

    +1-403-591-7000

  • Address:

    1-279 Mt. Sparrowhawk Crescent,
    Kananaskis, AB, T0L 2H0

  • Current hours of operation :

    9:00AM - 5:00PM SUN-THUR

    9:00AM - 6:00PM FRI-SAT

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

© Kananaskis Outfitters. All rights reserved. Designed & Hosted by Avanti-ICT.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations or changes made to bookings more than 72 hours away: We will fully refund your purchase, less a $10 admin fee, onto the card that was used for payment. You can cancel your booking by calling 403-591-7000 or emailing info[at]kananaskisoutfitters.com . Please allow 3-5 business days for the refund to process.

Cancellations made 71- 12 hours of start time: No refunds will be provided, but we will provide a 50% credit to use towards a future booking. You can cancel your booking by calling 403-591-7000 or emailing info@kananaskisoutfitters.com

No shows: A booking is considered a no-show if we aren't notified about a booking cancellation at least 12 hours prior to the start of the booking. Arrive on time, as departures will be leaving on schedule. No refunds or credit will be given for no shows or late arrivals.

Should I tip my guide?

If you enjoyed your experience and would like to show your appreciation, our guides will be grateful.

Do I need a reservation?
While reservations are not necessary all the time, we do advise making them as we frequently book all of our gear out in a day. With a reservation, you will know that your gear is here waiting for you. Payment is taken in full when the reservation is made.
How do I rent gear?
Come into the shop and fill out waiver; we will then take a credit card imprint (Visa and Mastercard accepted) as a damage deposit until you return with the gear, at which point we will check it over and then you may pay for your rental with credit, debit or cash.
Do I need bear spray?
If you are going to be hiking, walking, biking, running, camping, or pretty much anything else outside in Kananaskis, you should definitely carry bear spray. We do. It's more effective than a gun, and doesn’t require a special permit to carry.
What kind of tours do you offer?
We offer hiking, mountain biking, stargazing, snowshoeing, canoeing (and voyageur canoeing) tours as well as XC ski and stand up paddleboard lessons.
Can I book a private tour?
Any of our activities can be booked for a private group. Click here for more information.
What if I have a big group?
We regularly host large corporate or family groups; we can book individual activities for you or we can plan out a full day or multi-day adventure. Click here for more information, or give us a call: +1-403-591-7000.
Are there trails near you?
On foot, you can access mountain biking, hiking, XC skiing and snowshoe trails from our shop (season dependant). If you want to drive, then the options in Kananaskis are endless.
How do I rent a canoe/kayak/SUP?
During peak Summer season, we offer lakeside rentals at Barrier Lake. Hourly rates are in effect when a staff memer is present. During this time boats can not be reserved they are rented on a first come first served basis.

During quieter times, the boats will still be located at Barrier Lake, however you will need to come to the shop to fill out waivers and pick up the safety gear. Gear will also need to be returned to the shop when you are finished. For self serve boat rentals, full day rental rates apply and reservations are possible.

Paddles, PFDs and safety kit are included in the rental rate. Should you need to transport a boat, tie down kits are also available.
Do you rent downhill or touring equipment?
No, sorry we just rent XC skis.

Nakiska is a great place to rent downhill ski stuff. Go to Gear Up in Canmore or MEC in Calgary for touring gear.
Can we take the gear that we rent somewhere else?
Yes, you may transport the gear elsewhere as long as you can do so safely. We have tie down kits available for boats. Ask about our multi-day prices.
When do you sell off your used rental gear?
At the end of every season, we sell off select gear. So in the Fall, we sell off bicycles, in the Spring we sell off fat bikes, XC skis, and snowshoes, etc. Want to know all the details and get notified when the sale is happening? Join our email list. Sign up on our home page.
Where can I buy groceries, firewood, propane, etc.?
Some groceries and camping supplies can be bought at the Mt. Kidd Campers Centre, or at Fortress Gas Station. Hours are seasonal, call before you go.
Where is the closest gas station/liquor?
Fortress Gas Station (20 km south on Highway 40) is the closest place for gas and liquor/beer, although offsale beer is also available at Woody’s Pub at the Delta Lodge at Kananaskis.
Are there lakes near you?
Yes; Barrier Lake is about a 15 minute drive north on Hwy 40 and is where we keep our boats for summer rental. There is also Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lake a 40 minute drive South on Highway 40 in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs must be on a leash at all times in Kananaskis; dogs are allowed on all trails except groomed cross country ski trails. If you are confident paddling with your dog you are welcome to do so at your own risk.

Dogs can be brought on tours only it all of the other participants on the tour are agreeable. We can not determine this until right before the tour departs.
What is the meaning of life?
We’re still trying to figure that out, but Kananaskis is a great place to look for it. No wait…it's 42.