Pros & cons
PROS
- Backcountry campground with 16 sites right by the water
- Connects to South Kananaskis Pass for longer trips
CONS
- 10.3 km hike-in; permits and reservations required to camp
- No fires and no cell service
Overview
Three Isle Lake is a classic Kananaskis backpacking objective: a turquoise basin tucked high above Upper Kananaskis Lake with a small, sought-after backcountry campground. It feels remote without being extreme, and it anchors longer adventures deeper into the pass country on the Alberta–BC line.
Getting There
The standard approach starts at North Interlakes Day Use and follows the Upper Kananaskis Lake Circuit/Three Isle Lake Trail for 10.3 km to reach the lake. Expect a steady, scenic hike that tracks the lakeshore before climbing into the hanging valley that cradles Three Isle Lake. Along the way, many parties break at Forks Backcountry Campground (about 7.1 km from the trailhead).
Camping Details
The Three Isle Lake Backcountry Campground has 16 tent sites, some tucked in the trees above the water and others near the shore. Facilities are simple but practical: pit/vault toilets and secure food storage lockers. Water comes from the lake or creek (treat it). Fires aren’t permitted here. Reservations open 90 days before arrival, and sites are generally limited to one tent and six people. Fees are charged per person per night.
What Else Is Nearby
If you’ve got gas in the tank, the trail continues past the lake to South Kananaskis Pass, with the option to push on toward Beatty Lake. Closer to the trailhead, The Forks is a convenient staging campground with bear lockers, picnic tables, pit toilets, and a communal fire pit.
Wildlife
You’re in prime habitat for large mammals—grizzly and black bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, cougars, lynx, and wolves all roam this park. Make noise, keep food secured in the lockers, and carry bear spray.
Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip within the posted backcountry season (June 25–November 29). Outside those dates the campground is out of season. For the latest advisories and any closures, check Alberta Parks before you go.
Need-to-Know
- There’s no cell service throughout much of the park, including this route.
- Backcountry permits and reservations are required to stay at the lake.
- Treat all surface water and bring a stove—no campfires are allowed.
Where it is
50.6304, -115.2783Tips for Three Isle Lake
- 01Start at North Interlakes Day Use—the lake is 10.3 km from the trailhead.
- 02Reserve up to 90 days ahead; sites are limited to one tent and six people.
- 03Treat water from the lake or creek before drinking.
- 04No fires allowed here—bring a reliable backpacking stove.
- 05Expect no cell service and carry bear spray; store food in the lockers.
Amenities
Near Three Isle Lake
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayThree Isle Lake Backcountry CampgroundBackcountry lake campground with pads, lockers, and pit toiletsRestroom · Campground
0.7 mi awaySouth Kananaskis PassA wild, view-rich saddle linking Three Isle to Beatty basinScenic Viewpoint
1.9 mi awayMaude-Lawson LakesAlpine lakes reached by a moderate 7.5 km summer route
2 mi awayThe Forks Backcountry CampgroundEasy riverside backcountry base with firewood and bear lockersCampground · Restroom
6 mi awayThree Isle LakeLakeshore cruise, spicy headwall, and a serene alpine basinChallenging · 12.7 mi · 9.5 hr
6 mi awayMaude-LawsonBig alpine push to Turbine Canyon and Maude Lake via The ForksChallenging · 21 mi · 12 hr
6 mi awayUpper Kananaskis Lake Rock Glacier TrailLake loop with bouldery rockslide and a stop at Sarrail FallsModerate · 9.7 mi · 5 hr
6.3 mi awayHigh Rockies Trail (PLPP Segment)Southern High Rockies sampler with bridges, lakes, and quiet forestModerate · 10.6 mi · 6 hr
