Rawson Lake

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.