Dist: 7.8km Elev: 70m Time: 2.5h Difficulty: 1/5 When the weekend weather forecast turned from cold/rainy to warm/overcast Melinda and I decided to burn off some quarantine "shack-whackies" by taking a walk in the great outdoors. Looking for something laid back we eventually decided on the Lower Kananaskis Lake shore trail which neither of us had done.
We enjoyed a slow start to our day, eventually heading west with Tim's breakfast sandwiches in hand. Highway 40 was busier than I have ever seen, parking lots overflowing at every turn. I guess we aren't the only ones tired of staying home. A highlight of the day was when Melinda spotted a mamma grizzly with her two cubs on the side of the highway, and thankfully the crowds had subsided a bit as we were now deeper into K-Country so these beautiful creatures could graze in peace.
The hike itself was easy and relaxing, following a forested trail along the east side of the lake with frequent views of the shore and surrounding mountains. We stopped for snacks at the trail end and briefly toured the grounds of nearby William Watson Lodge (accessible accommodations for people with disabilities and their families) before returning the way we came. Short, sweet. and always great to get out with Melinda!
Awesome you saw the grizzlies...from the car! The trail looks like it was in good condition, and I could almost smell the spruce/pine. I missed your typical topo map, but I do know where the lake is :)
ReplyDeleteLovely photos and enjoyable write-up, as always.
Hi Mim! Yes the bears were by far the most exciting part of this trip. And you're right the fresh forest smell was lovely. Thanks for the reminder - I just added the map!
DeleteOh, the map is great--thank you! I hadn't pictured you getting as close to the Elkwood Campground as you did...nice area.
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