The Chester Lake hike or snowshoe is one of my favourite winter adventures in Kananaskis Country. The trail winds through a beautiful evergreen forest before opening up to big mountain views, especially stunning after a fresh snowfall. We were completely taken by the snow-capped peaks rising above a frozen-solid Chester Lake. Despite a few steeper sections, the Chester Lake Trail is considered one of the more family-friendly and approachable winter hikes in the area.
Last Updated: January 2026
When I first moved to Alberta, I sometimes found it hard to figure out winter hiking trails that felt both accessible and safe, especially without the added concern of avalanche terrain. As one of the most popular winter routes in Kananaskis Country, the Chester Lake hike stands out as a scenic and reliable winter option for individuals and families alike. We spent a crisp winter morning exploring the Chester Lake Trail back in December 2020, and it quickly became a favourite. Needless to say, I wouldn’t need much convincing to return for another winter hike in Kananaskis.
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Chester Lake Trail Map
About the Chester Lake Hike in Kananaskis Country
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 Trail begins just off Highway 742 in Spray Valley Provincial Park, where you’ll find a large parking area and an outhouse at the trailhead. The route winds gently through the forest before tackling a short but steeper uphill section. From there, the trail opens up to wide-reaching Rocky Mountain views. After a fresh snowfall, snow-dusted pine trees and white-capped peaks create a classic winter wonderland as you make your way toward Chester Lake.
How To Get to the Chester Lake Trailhead
You shouldn’t have any trouble finding the Chester Lake Trailhead. From Calgary, the drive takes about two hours. Head west on the Trans-Canada Highway, then follow Highway 40 through Kananaskis Country. I highly recommend continuing onto the scenic Smith-Dorrien Trail, which offers beautiful views year-round.
After turning right onto Smith-Dorrien Trail, continue for roughly 20 km. The large parking area for Chester Lake will be on the right-hand side, just past the Ranger Creek Day-Use Area. Parking is plentiful, and there are outhouses located 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 Winter Hike & Snowshoe in Kananaskis
The Chester Lake Trail begins on a well-defined winter route through the forest, following orange trail markers that make navigation straightforward. After a fresh snowfall, the trail is often nicely packed down by snowshoers heading toward the lake. On our visit, we had no trouble hiking in trail crampons with trekking poles. In winter, the approach to the lake feels especially magical, with snow-laden evergreens lining the trail and white-capped mountains towering overhead. We started hiking around 9am and had the trail entirely to ourselves for the first stretch.
While Chester Lake is considered a fairly easy hike in Kananaskis, be prepared for a steep and sustained uphill section. You’ll climb roughly 315 metres over about 4 km one way, including around 1.5 km of steady ascent with a few steeper spots. Depending on snow conditions, snowshoes can be helpful to avoid postholing. If you don’t want to snowshoe, it’s often best to wait a day or two after a big snowfall to allow others to pack the trail down.
Most people take 3 to 4 hours to complete this winter hike. In the shorter winter days, plan for a morning or early afternoon start and carry a headlamp just in case. I also brought my Jetboil to make hot chocolate at the lake, though a thermos works just as well. Be sure to pack enough water (at least 2 litres) and carry a filter or purification tablets if you plan to refill from a natural source.
Read next: Mount Engadine Lodge: Amazing Winter Getaway in Alberta
What to Bring Winter Hiking in Kananaskis
Are you new to winter hiking or snowshoeing? 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 elements. Depending on the weather and temperature, follow this layering system for your upper and lower body. Bring mittens 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 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, a headlamp, and a 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: Winter Hiking at Chester Lake
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. 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 Leave No Trace Principles? If you’re unfamiliar, check out these outdoor recreation and ethics principles before heading out. Help keep wild things wild in Kananaskis Country.
More Winter Hikes in Kananaskis
Here are a few more winter hikes in Kananaskis Country for your list:
- Little Lougheed Hike in Kananaskis Country
- Edworthy Falls Hike in Alberta’s Kananaskis Country
- South Lawson Peak Hike in Kananaskis Country
- Rawson Lake Hike in Kananaskis, Alberta
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.