Widowmaker Trail — Bow Valley Provincial Park

Hiking trails & Routes

Canada

Alberta

Kananaskis

Widowmaker Trail — Bow Valley Provincial Park

Easy

3.7

(3)

hikers

Widowmaker Trail — Bow Valley Provincial Park

01:12

4.60km

30m

Hiking

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: October 27, 2025

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Bow Valley Provincial Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

388 m

Bow Valley Provincial Park

Highlight • Natural

Bow Valley Provincial Park sits at the entrance to Kananaskis Country, where the Bow River cuts between steep limestone cliffs and forested hills. The park features an easy network of trails that lead to viewpoints, wetlands, and river lookouts, with highlights like the Flowing Water Trail and Middle Lake.

It’s also a popular spot for camping, wildlife viewing, and short day hikes, offering a perfect introduction to the mountain landscapes just west of Calgary.

Tip by

454 m

Widowmaker Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Widowmaker Trail in Kananaskis Country is a short, steady hike that follows the Kananaskis River upstream near Barrier Lake. The trail begins at the Widowmaker day-use area, named after a powerful stretch of whitewater popular with kayakers and rafters. As you hike, you’ll pass through mixed forest with frequent river views and the sound of rushing water beside you. It’s an easy-to-moderate route, perfect for a quick outing or to watch paddlers tackle the rapids below.

Tip by

2.30 km

Kananaskis River

Highlight • River

The Kananaskis River winds through the valleys of Kananaskis Country, flowing between rugged mountain slopes and dense evergreen forest before joining the Bow River. Known for its clear, fast-moving water, it’s a favourite spot for kayaking, rafting, and riverside hiking.

Trails and viewpoints along its banks—like those near the Widowmaker day-use area—offer easy access to watch the rapids and take in the mountain scenery that defines this part of Alberta.

Tip by

4.60 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.50 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

4.53 km

< 100 m

Elevation