Elk Lakes Park, British Columbia
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Elk Lakes Park is a stunning wilderness destination that offers visitors a chance to escape into the natural beauty of British Columbia. This park, which spans over 10,500 hectares, is home to pristine alpine lakes, rugged mountain peaks, and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you’re an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Elk Lakes Park is the perfect destination for you.
Elk Lakes Park is located in southeastern British Columbia, about a 3-hour drive from Calgary, Alberta. To reach the park, you’ll need to take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) west from Calgary, then turn onto Highway 40 at the Kananaskis Lakes Trail. From there, you’ll travel through Kananaskis Country before crossing the border into British Columbia and continuing on to the park. The park is open year-round, but access to some areas may be limited in the winter months due to snow and ice.
Elk Lakes Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. There are over 80 km of hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. Some popular trails include the Elk Lakes Trail, which leads to the stunning Elk Lakes and offers views of the surrounding mountains, and the Upper Kananaskis Lake Trail, which offers views of the lake and the nearby peaks.
If you’re interested in camping, there are several campgrounds in the park that offer a range of amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, and washrooms. The park is also a popular spot for fishing, with several lakes and streams stocked with trout.
One of the highlights of Elk Lakes Park is the abundance of wildlife that can be found throughout the park. The park is home to a variety of animals, including grizzly and black bears, moose, elk, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Visitors should take precautions when hiking in the park, including carrying bear spray and making noise to alert bears of your presence.
Elk Lakes Park is part of a larger conservation area known as the Elk Valley, which is home to an abundance of wildlife and plant species. The park is managed by BC Parks, which works to protect and preserve the natural environment for future generations. Visitors to the park are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all garbage and minimizing their impact on the natural environment.
Elk Lakes Park is a stunning wilderness destination that offers visitors a chance to escape into the natural beauty of British Columbia. With its pristine lakes, rugged mountains, and abundance of wildlife, the park is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re interested in hiking, camping, fishing, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, Elk Lakes Park is a must-see destination in British Columbia.