The best walks and hikes in Highwood Compound Provincial Recreation Area

While the specific Highwood Compound Provincial Recreation Area is permanently closed, the broader Highwood area within Kananaskis Country remains a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This guide focuses on trails in the surrounding Highwood region. Please note that a Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to park a vehicle in Kananaskis and the Bow Valley. Also, Highway 40 over Highwood Pass experiences annual road closures from December 1 to June 15.

The Highwood area offers incredibly diverse topography, from stark high alpine beauty to lush spruce and lodgepole pine forests. You'll encounter rich grazing lands of the Rockies' front ranges, shale ridgelines, towering peaks, and alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. The region also encompasses the upper reaches of the Highwood River watershed, an important ecological feature.

The Highwood area offers a variety of trails. For a moderate loop with scenic views, consider the Junction Hill loop. If you're looking for a more challenging ascent with significant elevation gain, the Holy Cross Mountain via Gunnery Creek Trail is a rewarding option. Another challenging but beautiful option is the Carnarvon Lake loop.

Yes, the Highwood area offers trails suitable for various skill levels. While our guide features mostly moderate to difficult routes, the broader Highwood Pass area includes easier options like Ptarmigan Cirque and Elbow Lake/Edworthy Falls, which are great for families looking for less strenuous walks with beautiful scenery.

The best time for hiking is generally from late spring to early fall. Highwood Pass, a central feature of the region, is subject to annual road closures from December 1 to June 15, limiting access during winter and early spring. Summer and early fall offer the most accessible trails and vibrant alpine wildflowers.

Yes, several loop trails provide varied experiences. Our guide includes the Junction Hill loop, a moderate option. Another loop, the Grass Pass – Gunnery Creek Trail loop, offers a different perspective through the landscape.

The Highwood area is a significant wildlife corridor. You might spot various species, including marmots in alpine meadows, and the region is known for supporting abundant wildlife, including at-risk native trout in the Highwood River watershed. Always be aware of your surroundings and practice responsible wildlife viewing.

Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in Kananaskis Country, including the Highwood area, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as some areas, especially wildlife corridors or protected zones, may have stricter rules or seasonal restrictions.

Parking is typically available at designated trailheads and provincial recreation areas within the Highwood region, such as Highwood Junction Provincial Recreation Area and Sentinel Provincial Recreation Area. Remember that a Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for all vehicles parking in Kananaskis Country.

Absolutely. Highwood Pass itself, as Canada's highest paved road, offers breathtaking views and panoramic vistas of the Canadian Rockies. Hikes like Mount Burke (in the broader Highwood region) provide 360-degree views across the foothills and front ranges. The mountain valleys surrounding the pass are particularly known for their expansive scenery.

The Highwood area offers a range of difficulties. Our guide features 3 moderate and 2 difficult routes. You can find trails with significant elevation gains, from under 1,000 feet to over 3,000 feet, catering to those seeking strenuous climbs as well as more accessible paths.