Table of Contents:
- Where is Kananaskis?
- Why Elope in Kananaskis?
- 6 Breathtaking Kananaskis Elopement Locations
- Best Time of Year to Elope in Kananaskis
- How to Legally Get Married in Kananaskis
- 8 Fun Kananaskis Adventure Elopement Ideas
- Best Places to Stay for Your Kananaskis Elopement
- Kananaskis Elopement Photographer
You’ve heard of Banff, and you’ve likely heard of Jasper—but have you ever heard of Kananaskis? If not, and you’re envisioning an elopement filled with gentle adventures, soaring alpine landscapes, and striking natural beauty, then boy am I happy you’ve made it here. I’m Heather—a Kananaskis elopement photographer who cannot wait to introduce you to this breathtaking part of the Canadian Rockies!
Where is Kananaskis?
Fun fact: there are parts of Kananaskis Country (aka K-Country) that actually used to be included in Rocky Mountain National Park (what is now Banff National Park)! It eventually became a separate piece of land back in 1911, and it’s been a part of Alberta ever since. Kananskis is located about 18 kilometres east of Canmore & 44 kilometres east of Banff, along Highway 1A and on the north shore of Bow River. If you’re flying into the area, you’ll want to book a flight into Calgary International Airport, which is a little over an hour’s drive from Kananaskis Village.
Why Elope in Kananaskis?
Banff is often the number one destination in the area for tourists and eloping couples alike, and for good reason—its iconic glacial lakes, snow-capped mountain peaks, and lush forests would take anybody’s breath away. But if you’re looking for an elopement destination that offers opportunities for gentler adventures, peace and quiet, and just as many breathtaking landscapes, then Kananaskis might be the place for you.
Here are a few quick ways to know if eloping in Kananaskis is the right choice for you:
- You heavily value privacy, and would prefer a secluded, intimate celebration
- You crave a chance to hit the trails without too many overwhelming crowds
- You want to take advantage of the incredible landscapes and go kayaking, swimming biking, paddling, fishing, and/or hiking
- You love the idea of a romantic picnic on the shores of a vibrant blue lake
- You’re interested in taking a day trip to Banff, but don’t necessarily need to spend multiple days there
- You’d love to spend an evening stargazing and gazing up at the Milky Way
Your days in Kananaskis can be spent however you’d like, truly; there are options for everyone, and none of the main attractions are too far away from one another. Maybe you’d love to go on a day hike to a spectacular alpine lake, and then take a quick dip in the water in your elopement attire for fun, carefree photos; maybe you’d rather cozy up by the lakeshore at sunset and enjoy a delish, rustic picnic.
Whether you’re looking for a longer, more challenging adventure or one that’s a bit more gentle, laid-back, and low-effort, Kananaskis will welcome you with open arms + give you an endless array of incredible options.
Feel like Banff might be more your vibe? Both are amazing options–you may want to take a peek at my Banff Elopement Guide as well to see if it’s right for you!
6 Breathtaking Kananaskis Elopement Locations
I could go on for quite a while giving you all of the incredible destinations you should add to your Kananaskis elopement itinerary, but unfortunately we don’t have all the time in the world to explore as much as our souls may crave it. I hope to instead, give you a great starting point with the following 6 places to elope in Kananaskis that offer beautiful, beautiful backdrops and an abundance of opportunities for adventure!
Keep in mind that you’ll need to get a Kananaskis Conservation Pass in order to park anywhere in Kananaskis Country or the Bow Valley Corridor. This pass costs $15 for a single day, and can be purchased either online or in person at the Canmore Nordic Centre, Kananaskis Visitor Centre at Barrier Lake, or the Peter Lougheed Park Discovery & Information Centre.
1. Nihahi Creek Trail
Trail length: 5.8km round trip
Elevation gain: 240m
Group size limit: 15 (Special Events Permit required)
Beginning at the intersection of Little Elbow River and Nihahi Creek, this trail takes you to a stunning viewpoint along a ridge that overlooks a scenic gorge. It’s a moderately-challenging hike that is well worth the beautiful landscapes you’re rewarded with, from the lush forests along the route to the narrow canyon that allows you to safely descend into the gorge itself—where you’ll even find a waterfall with a small swimming area! The rock formations at Nihahi Creek Canyon are super cool, offering unique views of the dry riverbed as well that make for a stunning elopement backdrop. This trail is dog-friendly and kid-friendly as well, so you’re welcome to bring your kiddos (furry or not) along for the fun!
2. Upper + Lower Kananaskis Lakes
If you’re looking for a Kananaskis elopement destination that offers those stunning alpine lake + mountain views iconic to the Canadian Rockies, then I’m sure you’re going to adore both the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes. These two stunners are super popular among folks who want to go fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, or swimming for the day, boasting gorgeous waters, boat launch ramps, plenty of campgrounds, and a series of trails that line the shores. Depending on what type of adventure you’re looking for, you can choose from one of the multiple hikes available—including a loop around the entire Upper Lake, a trail that runs along the Lower Lake, or maybe the one that takes you from the Lower Lake Day Use area to the Panorama Day Use Area. Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge is one of the most well-known landmarks in the region, located on an easy trail just off the Lower Lake.
3. Ribbon Falls
Trail length: 20.8km round trip
Elevation gain: 447m
Chasing waterfalls will forever be a fabulous idea on your elopement day—especially when those waterfalls are surrounded by glorious views of the Rocky Mountains. This is a bit of a lengthier hike, so be warned: you may want to try another location on this list if you’re not looking for a longer adventure! The trail to Ribbon Falls begins at Ribbon Creek Day-Use Area, and typically takes folks anywhere from 4-8 hours to complete round trip, depending on your ability and pace. Once you reach the Ribbon Falls backcountry campground, you’ll be just a few minutes away from the breathtaking falls themselves, but EVERY section of this trail is stunning in its own way—you’ll be in awe every step of the way. And if you’re willing to add an extra 3km to your adventure, you can check out the stunning Ribbon Lake; it’s a true hidden gem in the middle of Spray Valley that you will not regret
4. Barrier Lake
Known for its otherworldly turquoise blue waters, the glacial fed Barrier Lake is a marvelous sight to see in the heart of scenic Bow Valley Provincial Park. Locals call it one of the main gateways to Kananaskis Country due to its location as well as the hydroelectric dam located on its north side, and you can explore the area however you’d like—with a lakeside picnic, a short walk along the shores, or via the full 7.7km out and back hike along Barrier Lake Trail. Visitors flock to Barrier Lake in the summertime to take advantage of the amazing opportunities for hiking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding—so if any of those sound like your kind of adventure, I highly recommend making a stop here during your elopement!
5. Spray Lakes Reservoir
Just an hour’s drive from Calgary is the spectacular Spray Lakes Reservoir, which offers some of the most magnificent views you’ll find across Alberta. The Spray Lakes are an area covering over 4000 square kilometres of the Canadian Rockies, brimming with local wildlife, abundant foliage, extensive hiking routes, and spectacular views at every single turn. It’s a fabulous option for couples looking for a scenic drive to enjoy during their time in the area, with plenty of incredible stops along the way including the reservoir itself, Mount Engadine Lodge, Moose Meadows, and the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes we already spoke about! You’ll be drooling at the sight of the Spray Lakes Reservoir from the moment you arrive and witness the majestic, snow-capped peaks reflecting in the crystal clear waters below.
6. Rundle Forebay
If you take the trail to the Spray Lakes Reservoir from Canmore, you’ll find the stunning Rundle Forebay along the way (also called Canmore Reservoir). The vibrant emerald color of the water draws visitors from all over who are looking to go stand up paddle boarding or kayaking across one of the most scenic lakes in the area (about 5km to the end of the reservoir and back). Rundle Forebay is the perfect spot to go for a swim on your special day, especially if you’ve got beautiful weather and sunny, blue skies—a dream come true if I’ve ever seen one!
Best Time of Year to Elope in Kananaskis
Choosing when to elope in Kananaskis is almost as important as choosing where to elope, as the weather conditions will impact the mood of your elopement day + the activities you’re able to include. I’ve created a simple list below of the best time of year to elope in Kananaskis depending on what you’re looking for, and then I’ll dive a little deeper into each of the unique seasons!
The best time of year to elope in Kananaskis for. . .
Hiking and camping: June-August
Golden larches: Late September through early October
Wildlife viewing: May-August
Avoiding crowds: April-May, September-October
Winter landscapes & sports: January-March
Generally, the best time to elope in Kananaskis if you want to take advantage of outdoor activities are the summer months, from June-August, as that’s when you’ll get the best and most predictable weather. You’ll enjoy long, sunny days with plenty of blue skies, but rain is still always a possibility, especially in the afternoons.
However, if you really value privacy and would prefer to avoid crowds as much as possible, then the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) may be the best option for you. I adore the way the terrain comes back to life in the spring, gently transitioning into those lush, vibrant green landscapes that contrast beautifully against the dramatic mountains + blue alpine lakes. Fall is a whole other world of its own, though, offering the best time to see the area’s famed golden larches that will take your breath away!
Kananaskis also turns into the most magical wonderland in the winter months (especially January-March), and is by far one of the most amazing destinations in the region for winter sports such as skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and ice skating! Keep in mind that the section of Highway 40 between Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and Highway 541 is closed from December 1–June 14, in addition to certain trails that are inaccessible due to snow. The best thing you can do to avoid road and trail closures is keep an eye on websites such as the Alberta Parks Annual Road Closures and Kananaskis Trail Closures pages.
How to Legally Get Married in Kananaskis
There are three main steps to legally eloping in Kananaskis:
- Getting your marriage license
- Getting your Special Event Permit
- Getting your Conservation Pass
First, you’ll obviously need to obtain a marriage license if you’d like to tie the knot in Kananaskis. This can be done through any registry agent office in Alberta, which you’ll need to visit together in order to submit your application. You may need to swear one or multiple affidavits, and provide your personal information, including a valid form of identification. Once you have your license, it’ll be valid for 3 months and can only be used for a marriage ceremony in Alberta! There’s no waiting period, either, so feel free to get married as soon as you’d like 🙂
In addition to your Alberta marriage license, you’ll also need to apply for a Special Event Permit if you want to hold your ceremony in any Alberta Park (including Bow Valley Provincial Park, Little Bow Provincial Park, and more). Every park has its own permitted ceremony locations, maximum capacities, and available dates, so be sure to check for info on your chosen park here. Permit applications can be submitted up to one year in advance of your desired date, and may take anywhere from 30-90 days to be reviewed, especially during the peak months of May-September. You can learn more about Alberta wedding permits and fees here!
Finally, you’ll need to get a Conservation Pass in order to park anywhere in Kananaskis Country or the Bow Valley Corridor. This pass is very easy to obtain either online or at certain in-person locations, and costs $15 for a single vehicle.
Once you’ve gotten these three permits and licenses, you’ll be good to go!
8 Fun Kananaskis Adventure Elopement Ideas
I always, always encourage my couples to spend as much time exploring their elopement destination as possible, separate from the day they exchange their vows and make things official—I find that when I travel and manage to get familiar with the local area + experience the culture, I look back on my time with such fond memories. If you can take an extra day (or three!) to make your way around Kananaskis and really get to know the region, here are a few unforgettable activities you may want to incorporate into your itinerary!
1. Take a Canmore cave tour
2. Visit Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk
3. Hike Ha Ling Peak
4. Get some R&R at Kananaskis Nordic Spa
5. Paddleboard on Goat Pond
6. Bike along Highwood Pass
7. Follow the trails to Mist Mountain Hot Springs
8. Enjoy local brews at the Grizzly Paw Brewing Company Taproom
Best Places to Stay for Your Kananaskis Elopement
Canmore, Exshaw, and Bragg Creek all have quite an abundance of stunning Airbnb’s that would be a dream come true for your Kananskis elopement, whether you’re looking for a cozy log cabin or a contemporary condo in the heart of the mountains. Below, I’ve listed a few of the top-rated Airbnb’s near Kananaskis, as well as the most popular resorts in Alberta that I think would be beautiful options for your special day!
Sundance by Basecamp
A stunning collection of cabins and glamping tents/yurts amidst the Rocky Mountain wilderness, featuring gorgeous views overlooking the Kananaskis river and plenty of adventurous excursions.
Mount Engadine Lodge
A secluded glamping lodge nestled in the mountains of Kananaskis, offering eco-friendly lodging with trail access, delicious meals, and an array of accommodation options—including cabins, glamping tents, yurts, and rooms in the lodge itself.
Shanti Yurt
A unique Mongolian Yurt located among multiple acres of forest in Wintergreen Bragg Creek, with access to hiking trails, golf, and more.
Mountain View Condo
If you’re looking for something less rustic, this one is for you! Striking mountain views, a gorgeous balcony, fireplace, and access to community amenities such as gyms and hot tubs. . . what more could you want?
Kananaskis Elopement Photographer
So, what do you think? Have I convinced you to consider eloping in Kananaskis instead of Banff yet? I mean it when I say that both are incredible options, and each one has its own charm + magic—but for couples seeking lowkey adventures with mountain views that are just as mind-blowing, Kananaskis may be just the place for you. I’d be thrilled to photograph your Kananaskis elopement no matter what it looks like, and to help you craft an intentional adventure that feels so truly, utterly, and wholly you. Reach out now to start planning your one-of-a-kind experience!
Searching for more elopement resources like this to support you in planning your dream day? I think you’ll love these blogs just as much!
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