Sarrail Ridge via Rawson Lake | Kananaskis
Rawson Lake is a stunning mountain lake located in Kananaskis Provincial Park Alberta with crystal clear water; You access this trail head from the Upper Kananaskis lakes parking lot.
Take the Upper Kananaskis lake trailhead and follow along the upper Kananaskis lake. You will come across a bridge and waterfall...pause and enjoy.
The hike to Rawson lake is 7.5 km round trip with 593 m elevation gain and is rated as moderate. If you choose to hike up to Sarrail Ridge it is 11.5 km round trip with 1066 m elevation and is rated as Hard.
Dogs are allowed on this trail but they must be kept on leash.
You will then come to the Rawson lake trail on your left, this is where the elevation begins through the mossy Alpine forest towards Rawson Lake. The trail is a steady incline but not horrible just make sure you have your bear spray, water and good shoes. We promise the view at the end is worth it. Oh ya and don't forget your fishing rods as this lake is stocked with Cutthroat Trout but remember Catch and Release only. There is also outhouses at the lake if needed but it may or may not be stocked with TP so keep that in mind especially if you have the little ones with you.
From Rawson lake you can choose to head back to the parking lot or you can brave Sarrail Ridge. Please keep in mind that the next section is not for the faint of heart; come prepared and don't exceed your limits. I will not lie when I say that we went on and we were exhausted by the end of the day. This was my limit but it was worth it. The views from the top are spectacular.
Make your way to the far end of Rawson lake you will see the trail as you make your way over the rocky landscape. You will see people most likely hiking the ridge and trail up in the distance. This is where you start the next big elevation climb and there is not many switchbacks its pretty straight up.
Look at that view of Rawson Lake!
And of course we made it to the top of Sarrail ridge and had to take a picture with the lovely Upper Kananaskis Lake behind us. WOW what a view from up here and just a tad bit windy. I hope this blog helps you out and you decide to hike to Rawson or Sarrail as they are both spectacular places with amazing views! Don't forget to check out our other adventures we have taken.
