The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Barrier Lake Public Land Recreation Area

Lusk Pass Trail is a gentle forested route that winds through mixed woodland, with open clearings and occasional mountain viewpoints, as it gradually climbs toward Lusk Pass. Often completed as a loop with the Baldy–Lusk connector and sections of Baldy Pass Trail, this is a peaceful trek with a fantastic wildflower meadow near the midpoint and glimpses of the surrounding peaks through harvested openings in the trees. Compared with many Kananaskis hikes, the trail feels less strenuous and more relaxed, making it a great option for a moderate day hike or bike ride.

Lusk Creek Day Use Area is a small recreation site in Kananaskis Country that serves as a trailhead for Lusk Pass, Baldy Pass, and connecting forest trails. Nestled along Lusk Creek in a lightly forested valley, there are picnic areas, toilets, plenty of parking and basic access to the surrounding trail network, with mountain scenery beginning almost immediately beyond the highway crossing. Although simple in facilities, it has a quieter, more rustic feel than busier Kananaskis trailheads, making it a convenient starting point for hiking or biking through this area.

Baldy Pass Trail is a roughly 16 kilometre picturesque route that climbs steadily through forest and cutblock openings to Baldy Pass. While much of the trail passes through dense woodland, the open sections near harvested areas offer beautiful, expansive views toward Barrier Lake and the nearby mountains before the final climb to the pass. Popular with hikers and mountain bikers, the trail has a more rugged and backcountry feel than the gentler Lusk Pass route, especially on the steeper upper sections.

Bow Valley Provincial Park sits at the entrance to Kananaskis Country, where the Bow River cuts between steep limestone cliffs and forested hills. The park features an easy network of trails that lead to viewpoints, wetlands, and river lookouts, with highlights like the Flowing Water Trail and Middle Lake. It’s also a popular spot for camping, wildlife viewing, and short day hikes, offering a perfect introduction to the mountain landscapes just west of Calgary.

The Kananaskis River winds through the valleys of Kananaskis Country, flowing between rugged mountain slopes and dense evergreen forest before joining the Bow River. Known for its clear, fast-moving water, it’s a favourite spot for kayaking, rafting, and riverside hiking. Trails and viewpoints along its banks—like those near the Widowmaker day-use area—offer easy access to watch the rapids and take in the mountain scenery that defines this part of Alberta.

The Widowmaker Trail in Kananaskis Country is a short, steady hike that follows the Kananaskis River upstream near Barrier Lake. The trail begins at the Widowmaker day-use area, named after a powerful stretch of whitewater popular with kayakers and rafters. As you hike, you’ll pass through mixed forest with frequent river views and the sound of rushing water beside you. It’s an easy-to-moderate route, perfect for a quick outing or to watch paddlers tackle the rapids below.

Easy parking (you need a permit) and trailhead for a really nice hike with great views.

I recommend this trail along the lake as there are beautiful flowers and of course the view on the lake is awesome.