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Short run that starts with a steep climb, leveling out as it approaches the lake nestled between mountain ridges.


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Map Key

1.7

Miles

2.8

KM

74%

Runnable

6,578' 2,005 m

High

5,615' 1,711 m

Low

967' 295 m

Up

14' 4 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (6°)

34%

Max Grade (19°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · Views

Check the Alberta Parks website for closure information; there are frequent closures due to bear activity.

Need to Know

Bears are active around the Rawson Lake area, and you should prepare accordingly; bring bear spray and/or bells, talk loudly, and travel in groups if possible.

Restrooms are located at the start of the Upper Kananaskis Lake Trail. There is also an outhouse near the lake.

Description

Park at the Upper Kananaskis Day Use Area in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. To get to the Rawson Lake trailhead, follow the Upper Kananaskis Lake Trail south until you pass the waterfall. There will soon be a sign indicating the start of the Rawson Lake trail, heading up the mountainside.

The majority of the run will be spent climbing the steep incline through the forest. The climb is very steady with few areas where it levels off. The forest is thick and provides good protection from the elements in the summer months. Near the top, as the incline begins to lessen, there is a stretch with a narrow boardwalk in the middle of the trail. The ground can be very muddy and snowy at any time of the year given the amount of snowfall collected in the winter.

The trail leads directly to the lake, with views of the mountain ridges on nearly every side. Once you reach the lake, the trail becomes less obvious and takes you around the south end of the lake. The trail may be snowed under, but stick to the south side of the lake and you'll come across various informational signs and viewpoints.

Flora & Fauna

While you hopefully won't see any bears, you'll likely see marmots scurrying about or fish jumping in the lake.

Contacts

Shared By:

Ordinary Fruit

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 2 votes

#13577

Overall
  4.0 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#70

in Alberta

#13,577

Overall
2 Views Last Month
323 Since Jul 30, 2019
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Photos

Overlooking a frozen Lake Rawson.
Nov 8, 2021 near Canmore, AB
Steller's Jay at Rawson Lake
Nov 8, 2021 near Canmore, AB
Rawson Lake and Mt. Sarrail.
Jul 30, 2019 near Canmore, AB
Coming around Rawson Lake with a view of the Mount Sarrail amphitheater
Nov 8, 2021 near Canmore, AB
View of the avalanche shoot you'll soon be trekking up.
Nov 8, 2021 near Canmore, AB

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