Elk Pass XC Ski Trail

The cross-country ski to Elk Pass is a great ski in the Kananaskis Lakes area. There are a range of trails accessible from the Elk Pass cross-country ski trailhead, though any path up Elk Pass will go on a blue trail, suitable for intermediates.

Also, while we describe the Elk Pass route, there is also an exceptional circuit for more advanced skiers. The circuit follows our route to Elk Pass and continues around on Tyrwhitt to Whiskey Jack and then back to the trailhead on Moraine, for a total circuit of roughly 11.5mi.

Finally, you can go over Elk Pass and descend down to the ACC’s Elk Lakes Cabin, which is roughly 3.9mi and involves a descent of roughly 722ft from the pass.

The route we have shown is a fun cross-country ski to do for intermediate skiers who don’t mind a bit of descent.

From the Elk Pass parking lot, head out on the green Elk Pass Trail. This easy ski trail has a steep uphill after about 2625ft, and the uphill gains almost 295ft as it connects with the Hydroline utility corridor. The uphill can be painful in very icy conditions, especially coming down.

Once over this hump, you descend a bit and then start to ascend again, only now in a pretty forest. After 1.8mi on the Elk Pass cross-country ski trail you come to the junction for the Blueberry Hill trail, which goes off to your right. Don’t take this today, but it is a fun ski for another day (see insider hints for more on this XC ski trail).

Continue another 0.9mi to Elk Pass, where there is a picnic table. From Elk Pass, most intermediate skiers return the way they came, being careful on the descent. If you are looking for a longer day, continue on the wonderful Tyrwhitt trail and make a circuit.