K-Country is probably one of the easiest places you can drive to from Calgary. It’s also undeniably one of the most spectacular, with its gorgeous scenery, hiking trails, and delicious food.

If you’re like me and don’t like long drives, you’ll find Kananaskis the perfect destination to successfully escape from city noise. Enjoy the breathtaking views, pristine lakes, and adventure-filled hikes.

So, if you want a quick getaway from Calgary, we’ve got just what you need! We covered the driving routes, stops and detours, and some travel tips to ensure your vacation is safe and fun!

How to Get from Calgary to Kananaskis

Best Time for a Calgary to Kananaskis Road Trip

Any season is the best time to visit Kananaskis. If you’re itching for a summer adventure, July is the best month when the temperature is around 21°C and the humidity is low.

Summer also means long days, which is the perfect time for outdoor activities. It’s also the ideal time for lake adventures because the water is not freezing cold.

It’s a whole new experience during fall, from September to October, because of the golden larches. This is the season to go if you want to see the leaves turn golden yellow, which adds a beautiful ambience during hikes.

Modes of Transportation from Calgary to Kananaskis

There aren’t a lot of transportation options when travelling from Calgary to Kananaskis. It’s also a wilderness area, so there isn’t any kind of public transportation that can drive you there.

Fortunately, it’s only a short drive from downtown Calgary. You can find a vehicle for easy transportation whether you live in Calgary or are a traveller.

Better yet, find a friend who can drive and show you around in Kananaskis!

By Car

Cost: Under $100 a day, depending on vehicle type and model

In our opinion, the best way to get to Kananaskis is by driving. It’s not a boring road trip, either, so that’s a massive plus!

The short journey to Kananaskis is a scenic drive. You’ll get to see the gorgeous mountain ranges, offering you plenty of opportunities to stop and take some photos. Be mindful when stopping for photos and don’t stop in the middle of the road.

From Calgary International Airport, you can rent a car on-site. There are plenty of car rental companies at the airport, such as Enterprise and Avis.

Car rental rates will vary. You’ll find prices under $100 a day, but keep in mind that it depends on the type and model of the vehicle and the number of days you need it.

To save some money, you can rent a vehicle from the off-site locations. These companies can arrange for pick-ups near the airport.

The only con is you will have to do the driving yourself. If you are unfamiliar with Alberta roads, we suggest getting a private transfer, especially during winter when the road conditions are not the easiest to drive on.

By Private Transfer

Cost: $95 – $350 per hour, depending on vehicle and fuel surcharge

If you want to avoid driving or if you’re not familiar with Alberta roads, we suggest hiring a private transfer. This option is super convenient since you don’t have to drive on your own, which can be daunting if it’s your first time driving in Canada.

Travel in style with Limo To Go, which offers Kananaskis transportation. You can book luxury sedans, SUVs, shuttles, and party buses for one to 24 passengers.

It is a pricier option, though, with a starting range from $95 to $350. But if you’re travelling with a group and are willing to splurge, this is a very easy and hassle-free way to get to Kananaskis.

Driving routes from Calgary to Kananaskis

Travelling to Kananaskis from Calgary doesn’t require a difficult route. Sure, there are a few turns, but not so much that it’ll feel intimidating!

The routes are pretty straightforward and both only take an hour or so. Here are the routes you can take to get to Kananaskis:

Easy Route: Trans Canada Highway

Distance: 86.5 km

Travel Time: 1 hour

Directions

From downtown Calgary, drive to 6 Avenue, going to Bow Trail SW. Stay on the left side and continue straight.

Then, turn right going to Sarcee Trail SW, continue straight, and take the right lane to the AB-1 E ramp. Stay on the left lanes and head to 16 Avenue NW ramp and then, merge onto Trans Canada Highway and exit at 114 going to Seebe.

Drive on to AB-1 and take a left turn to Bow Valley Trail until you reach Kananaskis. If you want to head to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, drive to Kananaskis Trail and to Smith Dorren Trail.

But if you want to go to Kananaskis Village, take the same route to Trans Canada Highway but take Exit 118 going to Kananaskis Trail and turn right to Mount Allan Drive, then left to Centennial Drive and another right to Terrace Drive.

Once you enter the roundabout, you’re in Kananaskis Village. This route only takes approximately an hour.

A-Little-Longer Route: Bow Valley Trail

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Distance: 92.3 km

Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Directions

Driving on the Bow Valley Trail takes a little longer, but there’s really not much of a difference. This route will take about an hour and 15 minutes

From Calgary, drive to 6 Avenue and stay right going to Bow Trail. Take the Crowchild N ramp, go to Crowchild Trail NW, and continue to Bow Valley Trail until you reach Kananaskis.

Where to Stop During a Calgary to Kananaskis Road Trip

Calgary to Kananaskis is the ultimate road trip! It’s short and you can do it in a weekend. You can even plan a day trip since it’s so close to Calgary!

The only thing that will make your road trip long is the number of stops you can take to see stunning sights and gain new experiences! Here are our favourite ones:

Calaway Park

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Website: https://www.calawaypark.com/ 

Location: 245033 Range Rd 33, Calgary

Contact: (403) 240-3822, [email protected]

Operating Hours: Depending on the season. See the schedule here

If you’re travelling with kids, Calaway Park is a fun stop to consider. You just need to merge onto Range Road 33 to get here, and you don’t even need to take a major detour!

This is the largest outdoor amusement park in Western Canada, equipped with 32 rides for everyone to enjoy! There are plenty of kid-friendly rides and some heart-pumping attractions for the adults!

If you’re planning a summer vacation, there’s a campground so you’re only a short walk away from the amusement park. There are 104 sites available on weekends in the summer!

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

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Website: https://www.yamnuskawolfdogsanctuary.com/ 

Location: 263156 Range Rd 53, Cochrane

Contact: (587) 890-9653

Operating Hours: Thursday – Monday: 10 am – 5 pm

Take a short stop at the spectacular Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary. Instead of driving to the Trans Canada Highway, go to Crowchild Trail NW, straight to Bow Valley Trail, and detour at Range Road 53.

This animal sanctuary allows you to see the beautiful wolfdogs up close. This driving stop won’t take long, as the Sanctuary Walk takes roughly an hour or an hour and a half, depending on your pace.

Ghost Lake

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Location: Ghost Lake, Bighorn No. 8

Take a quick detour to Ghost Lake, located approximately 19 km west of Cochrane, for some photo opportunities. If you’re itching for a serene spot or a quick stroll to get some fresh air, you can quickly stop here.

This is also ideal if you want a quick kayak without boat traffic. You’ll still find boats here since this is a fishing spot, but there aren’t a tonne so you still get to enjoy the paddling near the shores.

It does get windy here, so avoid kayaking during strong winds. 

Brewster’s Kananaskis Ranch Golf Course

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Website: https://brewstersgolf.com/ 

Location: Brewster’s Kananaskis Ranch, Exshaw

Contact: (403) 673-2700, [email protected]

Operating Hours: Daily, 7:30 am – 7:30 pm (Seasonal availability)

Play a round of golf at Brewster’s Kananaskis Ranch just before you officially start your K-Country adventure. It’s on the way if you’re taking the Trans Canada Highway route— along AB-1X, you’ll find the entrance to the golf course.

It’s a nice way to have a relaxing tee time, perfect for friends and couples. But it’s not an impulsive driving stop since you need to book at least 30 days in advance.

If you want this to be part of your Kananaskis itinerary, make sure you book early to get the best rates. The prices change depending on the demand, so keep an eye out!

Widowmaker Trail

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Location: Widowmaker, Kananaskis

Families who love to hike will enjoy the Widowmaker Trail. It’s an easy, out-and-back hike that takes only a little more than an hour for the 4.5 km distance.

The trail has good footpaths since it’s in pretty decent condition. The views of the Kananaskis River during the hike are breathtaking and perfect for photo opportunities!

During your walk, you’ll probably catch rafters braving the rapids. There’s fast-flowing water, so keep the little ones close by if you’re walking by the river.

What to Expect for the Calgary to Kananaskis Road Trip

Driving from Calgary to Kananaskis in the summer is pretty easy. It’s also a scenic drive with trees, mountains, and sometimes, wildlife on the road.

In some areas on the road, you’ll see wild animals crossing the road. This is where your trip will take a hit, but only for a short while until the wildlife has crossed over.

But winter driving is a different topic. It’s not too much of an issue if your vehicle is equipped with winter tires unless you aren’t used to driving on Alberta roads.

While the roads are generally well-maintained, expect heavy snow and strong winds. For safety, stick to speed limits and keep an eye out for road signs.

Travel Tips for an Hassle-Free Calgary to Kananaskis Road Trip

Before driving off, call 511 in Alberta to check road information. This provides current road conditions so you are always updated.

Make sure you are equipped for the weather. It can get cold in K-Country (and pretty much in all of Alberta), especially if you’re not used to the weather and cold— the temperature can go way low in the negatives.

Even though the Calgary to Kananaskis drive is pretty easy, keep in mind that during the winter season, the road conditions are going to be challenging. If you aren’t used to Alberta roads, you can book a private transfer or have a friend help you out.

Also, part of the roads may be closed in the winter due to snow blocking. Always check for updates before driving off.

Remember that wildlife often cross the Alberta roads. Keep an eye out for signs along the roads, drive at the speed limit, and keep your eyes on the road.

Once you’re in K-Country, practice Leave No Trace and be aware of your surroundings. The Canadian Rockies is home to diverse wildlife, so avoid leaving food when you’re hiking or camping and carry bear spray.

You must also purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass, which is required for all vehicles entering Kananaskis Country and Bow Valley Corridor. You can buy a day pass or an annual pass.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy your trip to Kananaskis Country! Have a fun and safe vacation full of fun memories!