4.7
(68)
858
hikers
2
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park traverse a landscape characterized by towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes. This remote wilderness area features an alpine environment with numerous peaks and significant natural features. The park protects extensive stands of diverse ecosystems, ranging from lower elevations to high alpine regions. It offers a robust backcountry experience, ideal for those seeking a truly immersive outdoor adventure.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.9
(15)
182
hikers
9.48km
02:56
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
9.54km
02:47
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.9
(16)
140
hikers
15.7km
04:14
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Elk Lakes Cabin is a cozy, backcountry retreat nestled in the subalpine forest just west of the Continental Divide. Built and maintained by the Alpine Club of Canada, the cabin is a rustic but well-equipped base for year-round adventures, with sleeping platforms, a wood stove, propane cooktops, and a nearby outhouse. Although remote, the cabin is accessible via an 11-kilometre hike or ski from Peter Lougheed Provincial Park in Alberta, making it a popular destination for hikers in the summer and ski tourers in the winter. With no running water or electricity, visitors melt snow or draw from nearby lakes, embracing self-sufficiency that matches the wild beauty of the surrounding landscape. **Reservations for Elk Lakes Cabin can be made through the Alpine Club of Canada’s website here: https://alpineclubofcanada.ca/hut/elk-lakes-cabin/
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You can access this waterfall as part of the loop hike, as a short out and back hike, or via canoe. However you manage to get here, it is a nice waterfall with great views across the lake as well.
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From here a very short spur trail will take you to a waterfall near where the Upper Kananaskis River joins Upper Kananaskis Lake.
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Framed by rugged peaks and evergreen forest, Upper Kananaskis Lake is one of Kananaskis Country’s most scenic alpine lakes. A popular day-use spot, it offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and access for paddling or fishing in its deep, glacier-fed waters. The loop trail around the lake features waterfalls, wildflowers, and sweeping mountain views. Weather can change quickly at this elevation, so bring layers and start early to enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds.
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Fox Lake lies within the Elk Lakes Provincial Park and offers a stunning scenery with Taiga Viewpoint that rises with an elevation of 2,347 meters just behind the lake.
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Alpine wildflowers bloom here in spring and summer. Against the backdrop of the mountains, it is a real spectacle of color.
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Some of the large rocks here resemble elephants. A nice sight and a nice photo opportunity.
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In summer, you can fish for trout in the lake, but you can also swim or have a picnic on the shore. Alpine flowers bloom in the meadows and in autumn the larches color the lake shore golden yellow.
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Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park offers a wilderness experience with trails that immerse you in stunning natural beauty. While the park is known for its remote character, there are routes suitable for families looking for a moderate adventure. These trails often feature diverse landscapes, from lush forests to pristine lakes, providing a memorable outdoor experience.
This guide features a selection of family-friendly hiking trails, focusing on routes that offer a rewarding experience for those with children. Currently, there are a few carefully chosen routes, such as the Chester Lake Trail and the Fox Lake – Elk Lakes Cabin loop, designed to be enjoyable for families.
The best time to visit Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park for family hiking is typically during the summer months, from late June to early September. During this period, trails are generally free of snow, and the weather is more stable, making for safer and more enjoyable conditions. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.
Yes, loop trails are often ideal for families as they offer varied scenery without retracing your steps. The Fox Lake – Elk Lakes Cabin loop from Lower Elk Lake Campground is a great example of a moderate loop trail that provides a wonderful family adventure through the park's beautiful landscapes.
Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park is rich in wildlife. On your family hikes, you might spot mountain goats, elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. The park is also home to grizzly and black bears, cougars, and timber wolves, so it's essential to be bear-aware and make noise on the trails. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
For family hikes in this park, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Pack layers of clothing suitable for changing mountain weather, sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and sun protection. Given the park's remote nature, a map, compass or GPS device, and bear spray are also highly recommended for safety.
Access to Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park is generally via remote access roads, and parking availability can vary. For trails like the Chester Lake Trail or the Fox Lake – Elk Lakes Cabin loop, there are typically designated parking areas at or near the trailheads. However, it's always wise to check specific access details for your chosen route before you go, as facilities are minimal in this wilderness park.
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails in Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Please remember to pack out all pet waste to preserve the park's pristine environment.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's untouched wilderness, the stunning mountain and lake views, and the sense of remote adventure. Many appreciate the opportunity to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature with their families.
Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park is a wilderness park, and typically, day-use hiking does not require specific permits. However, if you plan on overnight camping or engaging in other specific activities, it's always best to check the latest regulations with BC Parks or relevant authorities to ensure you have all necessary permissions. You can find general information about the park on Spaces for Nature.
Height Of The Rockies Provincial Park is a remote wilderness area with no designated campgrounds or extensive park services within its boundaries. For cafes, restaurants, or accommodation, you would need to travel to nearby communities outside the park, such as Elkford, Canal Flats, or Radium Hot Springs. Plan your trip accordingly, as these services are not directly adjacent to the trailheads.


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