Rawson Lake Kananaskis in Winter

Looking for a quiet, snow-covered escape into the Canadian Rockies? Rawson Lake, Kananaskis in winter is a dream for cold-weather adventurers. Nestled beneath the towering cliffs of Mount Sarrail and blanketed in a hushed, snowy silence, this alpine lake transforms into a magical winter wonderland. With breathtaking views, peaceful solitude, and a moderate challenge, this trail is perfect for those seeking a rewarding snowshoe or winter hike not far from Calgary.

Overview of Rawson Lake Trail

Rawson Lake is a moderately challenging winter hike that leads through dense forest and up a gentle alpine slope to one of the most beautiful lakes in Kananaskis Country. The payoff? A stunning frozen lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs and snowy pines, truly a postcard-perfect winter scene.

• Distance: 6.8 km round trip
• Elevation Gain: 526 meters
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 3 hours
• Trailhead: Upper Kananaskis Lake Parking Area

How to get to Rawson Lake Hike Parking

Rawson Lake is located in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, about a 1.5-hour drive from Calgary. The hike begins at Upper Kananaskis Lake Day Use Area, near the far end of the Upper Kananaskis Lake Loop.

Parking Tips:

• The lot is usually plowed in winter but can be icy, so drive carefully.
• There are pit toilets available at the trailhead.
• Make sure you have a Kananaskis Conservation Pass, this is required for parking anywhere in the region.

Pro tip: Cell service is spotty here, so download your maps ahead of time or bring a GPS device.

Trail Description

Start the Trail at Upper Kananaskis Lake Loop

The journey to Rawson Lake begins at the Upper Kananaskis Lake parking area. There’s only a few cars when we arrived, probably because of the winter time. It was very windy that day, we could hear the wind even in the car!

We put on windproof jacket and all thermal clothing as we can because of the windy conditions.

The Upper Lake Trailhead introduces us to different hiking trails in this area. It also shows a map locating different trails. You can take a picture of it to know more of your way.

The initial kilometer offers a relatively flat warm-up along the northern shore of Upper Kananaskis Lake. Thanks to the trees on both sides of the trail, we were not attacked by the strong wind here!

The initial section follows the Upper Kananaskis Lake shoreline, providing scenic views of the frozen lake and surrounding mountains.

We saw some people ice fishing far away on the frozen lake. We were so surprised that they could walk such a long way to the middle of the frozen Kananaskis Lake under strong wind.

Crossing the Bridge across the Frozen Creek

After around 15 minutes, we reached this steady bridge beside a frozen fall. This is definitely a good photo spot, both in summer and winter.

The sign next to the bridge introduces us to the flooding history of the Canadian Rockies in 2013. There were towns, roads, trails being destroyed by flooding, and the old bridge here was one of them. And that’s why there’s a new bridge here for hikers crossing the creek.

Continuing the Upper Kananaskis Trail can lead you to other areas, but we should turn left to get to Rawson Lake.

Starting the Rawson Lake Trail

After a short hike from Kananaskis Lake, the official Rawson Lake Trail starts here. This sign describes the Rawson Lake Trail. The total length of the Rawson Lake Trail is 5.2 km round trip (not counting the Upper Kananaskis Lake Shore part). And you will experience a long and steady climb.

Here begins the steady climb through dense forest. This section represents the most physically demanding part of the winter journey, with about 300 meters of elevation gain over 1.5 km.

Although the trail is filled with paced snow, I would still suggest wearing microspikes for an easier hike. It would definitely help when you go downhill on the steep trail.

Arriving Rawson Lake

After an hour, we finally made it to our destination! As the trail flattens, you’ll emerge from the forest into a breathtaking alpine bowl. Emerging from the forest into Rawson Lake delivers the hike’s defining moment.

The frozen surface of Rawson Lake in Winter spreads out before you, backed by the dramatic cliffs of Mount Sarrail in Kananaskis. When we got closer to the frozen lake, we realized how close the cliff of Mount Sarrail was to us. And we hope to visit here once more in summer so that we can explore further to Sarrail Ridge.

During my February visit, tracks from previous visitors created a visible path across the frozen lake. Though venturing onto frozen alpine lakes always carries inherent risk requiring careful assessment. We followed the path and reached the centre of the frozen Rawson Lake but did not go further.

Extending the Adventure

For those seeking an extra challenge, you can extend your adventure in summer. The Rawson Lake Trail continues past Rawson Lake toward Sarrail Ridge, a steep but rewarding climb that provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Avalanche Safety

While the main trail to Rawson Lake follows a route with managed avalanche risk, the surrounding terrain includes multiple slide paths. So I do not suggest you hike up to Sarrail Ridge in winter time. The slopes of Mount Sarrail that frame the lake are particularly prone to avalanche activity after significant snowfall or during spring warming trends.

Essential Gear

Hiking to the alpine Rawson Lake in Winter can be colder than when you are at Upper Kananaskis Lake. We recommend you to wear according to the layering system and depends on the weather.

Best Time to Visit

The trail to Rawson Lake is accessible year-round, but the winter magic typically begins in late November and lasts through March.

Best Months:

• January to mid-March for ideal snow conditions and fewer crowds.
• Avoid shoulder seasons (early winter and late spring) due to unstable snow and avalanche risk.

Why Winter is Special:

• Fewer hikers make for a quieter, more immersive experience.
• The lake completely freezes, creating a pristine snowfield perfect for exploration and photos.
• The snowy forest and icy cliffs transform the hike into a truly magical scene.

Always check the Avalanche Bulletin before heading out, and avoid venturing past Rawson Lake unless you’re trained and equipped for avalanche conditions.

Pets and Kids-Friendly?

Rawson Lake is a pet-friendly and family-accessible winter hike, but it comes with a few important considerations, especially when snow and ice are involved.

While Rawson Lake is less trafficked than other trails, you’ll likely see a few families and fellow dog lovers enjoying the crisp air and mountain views. With the right prep, both kids and pets can safely enjoy this alpine wonderland.

Nearby Adventure

The Upper Kananaskis region is packed with winter adventure opportunities for those looking to extend their day trip or create a full weekend getaway.

1. Upper Kananaskis Lake Loop:
Before or after your Rawson Lake hike, consider walking a portion of the Upper Lake Loop, which offers beautiful lakeside views and peaceful, snow-covered pathways. It’s flat and great for families or a casual stroll.

2. Snowshoe to Sarrail Ridge (Only for Experts):
For trained and properly equipped backcountry users, Sarrail Ridge offers an intense climb with panoramic views. However, this route passes through avalanche terrain and is not recommended in winter without proper avalanche training, gear, and favorable conditions.

3. Snowshoeing or Skiing at Peter Lougheed Provincial Park:
Just a short drive away, this park offers designated snowshoe trails and groomed cross-country ski routes. Elkwood, Pocaterra, and Boulton Creek are popular access points with excellent terrain.

4. Ice Fishing on Lower Kananaskis Lake:
For something different, try your hand at ice fishing in this nearby frozen lake. You’ll need a valid Alberta fishing license and ice safety awareness.

The area surrounding Rawson Lake is a winter playground in Kananaskis—make the most of it by exploring these nearby options before heading home.

Accommodations

You can stay in Kananaskis Village or Spray Valley Provincial Park remote lodge for easier access to different places:

FAQs