The Chester Lake hike or snowshoe is one of the best winter adventures in Kananaskis Country. As you walk through the evergreen forest, you’ll find awe-inspiring mountain views after a fresh snowfall. We were blown away by the snow-capped mountains above the frozen-solid Chester Lake. Even with some steep sections, Chester Lake Trail is considered one of the family-friendly and easy hikes in Kananaskis.
Last Updated: February 20, 2024
When I moved to Alberta several years ago, it was sometimes difficult to find safe winter hiking trails without additional hazards from avalanche terrain. As one of the most popular winter trails in Kananaskis, the Chester Lake hike offers a safe and scenic winter adventure for individuals and families alike. We enjoyed spending a wintery morning exploring Chester Lake Trail back in December 2020. Needless to say, I wouldn’t need much convincing to return this wonderful winter hiking in Kananaskis.
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Table of Contents
About Chester Lake Hike — Family-Friendly Kananaskis Hike
Location: Spray Valley Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, Alberta
Distance: 8 km out and back
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elevation: 315 metre gain
Time: 3 – 4 hours
Dog-friendly: Yes, but must remain on a leash.
Features: The Chester Lake hike starts near Highway 742 in Spray Valley Provincial Park, with a large parking area and an outhouse nearby. Chester Lake Trail meanders through the forest with a short and steep uphill section, then opening up to stunning Rocky Mountain scenery. If you visit after a fresh snowfall, snow-covered pine trees and white-capped mountains will guide your through this winter wonderland toward Chester Lake.
Chester Lake Trail Map
Directions to Chester Lake Trailhead
You shouldn’t have any trouble finding the Chester Lake Trailhead. Driving from Calgary takes about two hours, heading west on the Trans Canada and then following Highway 40 through Kananaskis. Highly recommend this scenic drive down Hwy 40 and then up Smith Dorrien Trail (Hwy 742). After turning right onto Smith Dorrien, continue for about 20 km to reach the large parking area on the right-hand side, just beyond the Ranger Creek Day-Use Area. The parking area has plenty of room and outhouses near the trailhead.
Note: Are you visiting Chester Lake in the wintertime? After the snow arrives, I highly suggest using a vehicle with AWD/4WD, especially on Smith Dorrien Trail. Two-wheel may be difficult.
Chester Lake Hike — Winter Hiking in Kananaskis
The Chester Lake hike begins on the snowshoe trail through the forest, following the orange trail markers to keep on track. After a fresh snowfall, Chester Lake Trail was packed down after several snowshoers made their way to the lake. We had no issue hiking with the help of trail crampons and trekking poles. In the winter time, the route to Chester Lake becomes a magical scene with snow draped evergreens beside and white-capped mountains above. We started hiking around 9:00am and were completely alone for the beginning.
Chester Lake Trail is a moderately gentle hike, but be prepared for over 1.5 km of uphill with some steep areas. Before finding the lake, you’ll gain about 315 metres over about 4 km one way. Depending on the snow, you may want to use snowshoes to avoid postholing. If you prefer to hike, it’s worth waiting a day or two after a snow dump to give snowshoers time to pack down the trail.
Most visitors will take between 3 to 4 hours to finish this winter hiking in Kananaskis. In the winter months, plan to arrive in the morning or early afternoon to keep enough daylight (and bring a headlamp just in case). I also like to pack my Jetboil stove to make tea or hot chocolate outdoors (or carry a thermos with a hot drink). Make sure you bring enough water (at least 2 litres) and carry a water filter or purification tablets if you plan to refill from a natural source.
Read next: Little Lougheed Hike in Kananaskis Country
What to Bring — Winter Hiking in Kananaskis Country
Are you new to winter hiking or snowshoeing? If so, that’s great! Make sure you wear appropriate clothing and bring essential gear to have the best time on those winter trails. Wearing winter layers like a moisture-wicking baselayer and an insulating midlayer will help keep you warm and dry outdoors. Wear an outer layer or “shell” for extra warmth and protection from the wind and rain. Depending on the weather and temperature, follow this layering system for your upper and lower body. Bring mitten or gloves, a winter hat or Buff, and anything else you need.
In your winter hiking day pack, be sure to carry hiking essentials to stay safe out there. Bring at least two litres of water in a water reservoir or water bottle, and some snacks to keep your energy levels up. I always carry hiking essentials like a lightweight first aid kit, matches, headlamp, and shelter tarp. In the winter, I bring an extra down jacket just in case. If you’re not sure what to bring, read about the 10 Hiking Essentials beforehand.
Read next: Winter Hiking for Beginners: What To Wear Winter Hiking
Know Before You Go
Park Pass: Visitors must purchase a yearly or daily Kananaskis Conservation Pass before accessing Chester Lake Trail and other Kananaskis hikes. Purchase your pass online or at a visitor centre in Kananaskis.
Parking: You can park at the Chester Lake Trailhead. No additional fee for parking.
Toilet: Outhouses are available at the Chester Lake Trailhead and beside Chester Lake.
Pets: Pets are permitted on Chester Lake Trail but must remain on a leash. Consider bringing dog booties to prevent snow and ice build-up on winter hikes.
Trial Conditions: Before you head out, check the trail conditions online. Periodic trail closures do happen outside of predictable seasonal closures.
When To Visit: Between December and April is the best time for Chester Lake winter hike or snowshoe. Chester Lake is a beautiful place all year round.
Seasonal Closure: Chester Lake Trail is closed annually from May 1 to June 29 to allow the area to dry and prevent damage to the trail and natural environment.
Wildlife: Kananaskis is bear country and encounters can happen any time of the year. Give wild animals plenty of space and do not feed wildlife. Carry bear spray and know how (and when) to use it. Leave the bear bells at home, though (just talk on the trail to avoid surprises).
Safety: Chester Lake Trail has little to no avalanche danger, making this a great place to hike or snowshoe with family and friends. Do not venture off the trail where avalanche risks can be much greater.
Family-Friendly: A popular Kananaskis hike or snowshoe for all skill levels, Chester Lake is a great place for families with young children.
Navigation: Finding your way to Chester Lake is fairly straightforward in the wintertime, especially on the snow-packed snowshoe trail. It’s always important to bring a map and compass along. Gem Trek Kananaskis Lakes map is the best physical map around, and you can find Chester Lake Trail on AllTrails for another reference.
Note: Have you heard about the Seven Leave No Trace Principles? If you’re unfamiliar, check out these outdoor recreation and ethics principles before heading out. Do your part to keep wild things wild and help maintain a healthy natural environment in Kananaskis Country.
Have you experienced the Chester Lake hike or snowshoe in Kananaskis Country? Are you planning to visit soon? Leave a comment below!
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
This is a great place to snowshoe. It’s safe, not many skiers and gorgeous view at the top.
Most definitely! It’s a great snowshoeing/hiking trail, and the reward is worth it.