An easy ski tour with no avalanche danger

Statistics

3 - 4

hrs

481

m

481

m

16

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Easy

Description

This is a classic snow shoe and beginner ski tour in Kananaskis.

A gentle grade and undulating forest trail make this a scenic and mellow ski tour.

Great for kids and beginners or on higher hazard days the tour takes you to a pleasant frozen lake which is a great lunch spot.

Even if you don't reach your destination you will enjoy the pleasant forest you travel through.

There are a few strategic bench rest spots en route that provide for some nice places for a snack out of the snow.

The trailhead starts directly across from the turnoff to Mount Engadine Lodge and Mt.

Shark cross country ski areas.

You park on the road and the trail is usually quite wide due to the large number of snow shoers who pack it down.

A nice place for afternoon snack or tea is at Mount Engadine Lodge across the road from the trailhead.

This is also a great tour if you're not familiar or comfortable with avalanche terrain as you don't go through any on your way to the lake.

This is a good zone to practice with your avalanche safety gear in preparation for more complex tours.

This is a good adventure November through April as the trail gets packed down well and retains snow.

The tour is user friendly for all age groups and abilities although it is 6km to the lake (12 kms total) so don't underestimate that distance and remoteness in winter conditions.

Make sure to bring proper winter gear and communication devices as there is no cell reception on the Smith Dorrien.