When it comes to enjoying incredible views with almost no effort, the Village Rim Trail is the go-to pathway for those looking to do an easy hike in Kananaskis Country. In fact, it’s such a cinch that the pathway is actually more of a walk than a hike, and a must-do for every first time visitor.
This loop is fully accessible as the entire trail is paved and virtually flat, with only 23 metres of elevation gain. When we recently visited K-Country with our two babies and their grandparents, we ended up walking on this trail every day as it’s such an easy way for everyone to enjoy the outdoors (even with two strollers!).
The Village Rim Trail in Kananaskis Country
The Village Rim Trail is 1.4 km long (0.86 miles), so it only takes about 15-20 minutes to walk the full loop around Kananaskis Village.
There are five different lookouts along the way, with sweeping views across the valley of mountain ranges like The Wedge and Mount Kidd. You’ll also be able to see the meandering Kananaskis River, and the fairways of the Kananaskis Country Golf Course.
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Benches are positioned along the way, there are a handful of picnic sites, and large green spaces often used for events. Back near the village you’ll find a great kids’ playground, and the path connects with several cross-country skiing and bike trail systems like Ribbon Creek.
I also highly recommend cycling the fully-paved Bill Milne bike trail which starts nearby and winds past the Mount Kidd RV Park and golf course before arriving at Wedge Pond—bike rentals are available from Kananaskis Outfitters in the village.
Tips for walking the Village Rim Trail
- There isn’t much shade along the pathway as it mostly hugs the ridge, so be sure to have a hat, sunscreen and water on hand for hot days.
- Carrying bear spray is a must, especially if you find yourself on the trail around dawn or dusk when there are less people around
- This is a wonderful spot for a picnic lunch, and you can get grab ‘n go food at Market Café inside the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge or from Moose Family Kitchen in the Village.
How to get to the Village Rim Trail
The Village Rim Trail is conveniently located right in Kananaskis Village, steps from the main public parking lot by the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.
Parking is free, but note that all vehicles stopping in K-Country are required to register for a Kananaskis Conservation Pass ($15/day or $90 annually). Yes, they check, so make sure you secure one before heading out to avoid a fine.
There are multiple entrance points for the trail, but the most common way is to start at the marked spot just north of the hotel along Centennial Drive, and then walk in a clockwise direction to visit all five viewpoints before arriving back at the lodge.
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- Troll Falls: One of the best Kananaskis hikes in every season
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