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Rawson Lake

Kananaskis, Alberta

4.5/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Becky Simrose

Rawson Lake is an easy family-friendly hike with lots to explore. If you can make this a challenging loop hike with amazing views of Kananaskis country if you add Sarrail Ridge to your hike. Peter Lougheed Provincial Park campgrounds are located nearby.

Getting There
From Highway 1, Take Highway 40 South to Kananaskis Lakes Trail, and turn left at Upper Kananaskis Lakes Drive.

The Trail
The trail to Rawson Lake starts at the end of the "Day Use Area" at Upper Kananaskis Lake. The lake gently laps the shoreline to the right and moss carpets the forest to the left. Soon the sound of water can be heard, and the trail drops down to Sarrail Creek. Here, you'll find a rushing waterfall cascading down a mossy cliff.

There used to be a bridge here, but it was washed out by a 2013 flood and hasn't been replaced yet. Crossing the creek isn't too difficult, but does require some agility and may result in wet feet. Shortly after the creek crossing, the trail to Rawson Lake branches off from the lakeshore trail and ascends 2.7 km along switchbacks through the trees and along boardwalks before finally opening out to Rawson Lake, nestled below the slopes of Mount Sarrail.

This hike can be family-friendly if stopping at Rawson Lake and heading back. The hike becomes more challenging. if you choose to head up Sarrail Ridge.

Sarrail Ridge is a steep, strenuous climb beyond Rawson Lake. To take it, follow the rocky trail along Rawson Lake and ascend the steep grassy slope on the far side. From the trailhead to the ridge, you'll travel 5.6 kilometers and gain 655 meters in elevation, and the incredible views from the top of the ridge make the effort worthwhile.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Rawson Lake Reviews

Fantastic hike!!! The hike stars along the eastern side of Upper Kananaskis Lake. Follow the other to the fork where there is a sign that clearly marks the trail to Rawson Lake. This is where the trail starts to get get steep, and you really gain in elevation. Once at Rawson, the views are incredible. Bring your fishing rod as the lake has an abundance of fish, and they were jumping.

Also good for winter hikes!! Snowshoeing on the lake :)

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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