Prairie View Lookout - Barrier Lake

Did an awesome hike this week in Kananaskis; Prairie View Lookout at Barrier Lake. The parking lot is located off Highway 40 in the day use area by the Barrier Lake dam. It is around a 25 minute drive from the Trans-Canada Highway.

The trail follows an old fire road and you are also able to mountain bike on it. It is definitely a good climb with a decent amount of elevation gain. Luckily the view from the top is so incredible and makes it all worth it!


Barrier Lake is a gorgeous colour and seeing it at 1917 metres gives you a totally different view. If wanting to go further, the Barrier Lake Fire Lookout is another 600 metres from the Prairie View Lookout and although it is a very steep climb, the views are even more incredible (you can even see Calgary on a clear day).

Hike Details:
Prairie View - 10.8 km (return) at approximately four hours with 537 metres in elevation gain
Barrier Lake Lookout - 14 km (return) at approximately five hours and 625 metres in elevation gain


Remember to always check trail conditions before starting a hike and dress appropriately!

Guest Comments~

Gabby stayed at our hotel this past week and had to say the following:

"I want to thank you for the stay at your beautiful hotel! We had a wonderful time hiking and shopping in Banff and a great stay. We thoroughly enjoyed the outdoor hot tub in the evening and the breakfast was amazing! Furthermore, location is great. So close to to everything. I'll be recommending even more visitors to your hotel. Thanks again!!! We had a great experience."

Thank you Gabby; so glad we were able to accommodate you and that you enjoyed Banff! Look forward to having you stay again~

Singing Park Wardens...

Parks Canada has announced a new program for visitors coming to Banff National Park this summer; singing park wardens will perform original songs, poetry and stories about the history and tradition of Banff National Park's warden service.

Park Wardens are so important to Banff National Park. They keep us safe, along with all the animals living here and so much more!

Performances take place at the Tunnel Mountain Campground Outdoor Theatre on the following dates:

July 14 - 8-9pm
July 22 - 8-9pm
July 28 - 8-9pm
August 23 - 8-9pm
August 26 - 8-9pm
September 2 - 8-9pm
September 4 - 8-9pm

Performances are free with admission into Banff National Park. Take advantage of these shows to learn more about our history; I know I will!