Family-Friendly Adventure in Kananaskis, AB - Nature on a Budget

Day 1: Outdoor Exploration

Kananaskis, AB

8:00AM

Breakfast at Summits Café

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Summits Café, where you can enjoy a breakfast burrito or fluffy pancakes while soaking in the stunning mountain views.
Located within Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, the café is easily accessible right from the main road.
CAD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kananaskis Country Hiking

After breakfast, embark on a family-friendly hike at the Chester Lake trail, enjoying the beautiful wildflowers and vistas of the surrounding mountains.
From Summits Café, drive 21 minutes to the Chester Lake Trailhead parking area.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch

Settle in for a delightful picnic lunch at the Chester Lake; packed sandwiches or wraps are perfect to refuel after your hike while surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
Bring your own picnic basket, which can be prepared at your accommodation or packed from Summits Café before you set out.
CAD 10 (for the groceries), 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Elbow Falls

Head to Elbow Falls for a quick nature stroll and enjoy the invigorating sound of cascading water as it tumbles down the rocks, perfect for family photos.
Drive about 30 minutes from Chester Lake to Elbow Falls parking lot; it's a well-marked route.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Barrier Lake

Wrap up your adventure with a visit to the picturesque Barrier Lake where you can roam the shoreline or engage in some light activities like skipping stones.
Continue driving for about 15 minutes from Elbow Falls to reach Barrier Lake; enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Italian Farmhouse

End your day with a delicious meal at The Italian Farmhouse, where you can savor homemade pastas and pizzas perfect for the whole family in a cozy setting.
Located in Kananaskis Village, it's roughly a 20-minute drive from Barrier Lake.
CAD 50, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Stargazing at Kananaskis

Cap off your day with some stargazing; the clear mountain skies offer a perfect opportunity to observe constellations and maybe even catch a shooting star.
Find a dark grassy spot near the hotel or picnic area, away from direct light.
Free, As long as you desire
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