Panorama Day Use Area

Panorama Day Use Area is a shoreline viewpoint at the southern end of Lower Kananaskis Lake, beside North Interlakes Day Use Area. It is a simple stop for the broad water-and-mountain view if you want a lake pause without setting out on a longer outing. It is a year-round stop. Set your destination to the Panorama pin so you do not confuse it with the separate North Interlakes area.

From the southern shore, the lake opens toward the Wintour Mountain Range. The lake and mountain backdrop are the reason to stop. For a photo, include some near-shore trees or shoreline along with the far ridge; that foreground helps show the scale of the water.

Lower Kananaskis Lake began as a natural lake, but Pocaterra Dam and its power plant raised it 11 metres in 1955 for hydroelectric use. Kent Creek was diverted into the lake in 1956; in 1959, French and Burstall creeks were diverted north toward Spray Lakes. That engineered history sits quietly behind the open-water view.

Parking is close by, but this is a scenery stop rather than a meal stop; bring water and a snack if you want to linger. A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for vehicles parked in Kananaskis Country; check the current requirements before you go.