Near Rawson Lake
Overlooking a frozen Lake Rawson.
Near Rawson Lake
Rawson Lake and Mt. Sarrail.
Near Rawson Lake
Steller's Jay at Rawson Lake
Near Rawson Lake
Coming around Rawson Lake with a view of the Mount Sarrail amphitheater
Near Rawson Lake
View of the avalanche shoot you'll soon be trekking up.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Rawson Lake

4.0 (3 Ratings)
Short hike that starts with a steep climb, leveling out as it approaches the lake nestled between mountain ridges.
1.6
mi
Distance
1,148
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyLakeViewsWaterfall
Access Issues
Check the Alberta Parks website for closure information; there are frequent closures due to bear activity.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.58mi
Distance
1,148ft
Elevation Gain
209ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
6,687ft
High Point
5,631ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
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 hike 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.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Ordinary Fruit