Elbow Lake Trail

This is a short out and back from Elbow Pass Day Use to Elbow Lake: 1.4 km each way, or 2.8 km return, with about 120 m of climbing. The payoff is a blue green lake in a high mountain basin, with a backcountry campground beside it. The distance looks modest, but the old road climbs steadily enough that the uphill feels like most of the outing. Allow about 1.5 hours for both legs and a pause at the water. This is a compact hike with a proper climb, not a flat shoreline stroll. The route described here ends at the lake; the longer shore circuit and paths that continue into the backcountry add distance.

The path leaves the parking area on a broad old road and gains height quickly through forest. Short level stretches break up the climb. One rocky opening has a small alpine garden and brief mountain views; farther on, the road curves around the slope, opens to views on both sides, then returns to the trees before dipping to the lake. There is a bench along the climb. Expect a steady uphill on a rough road surface, with loose stones in places, rather than a narrow single track. On the way back, you retrace the same route and regain some height before the final descent to the parking area.

This is also a shared corridor. Alberta Parks says horses use the trail, and the route leads into the park's eastern biking network. Listen for other trail users and give horses room, especially where the path narrows.

Elbow Lake Backcountry Campground sits beside the lake and has 15 tent sites, vault toilets and secure food lockers. It is an overnight destination, not a day use service stop; arrange a backcountry reservation before planning to camp. No food service or amenities are listed at the trailhead, so bring what you need for the walk. The lake circuit crosses the Elbow River near its headwaters, a reminder that this basin is also the start of a much longer downstream river system.

Begin at Elbow Pass Day Use Area off Highway 40. Three signed lots separate day visitors, backpackers and equestrian users. A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for vehicles parked in the area. Highway 40 south closes to vehicles every year from December 1 through June 14, and the day use site's listed season is June 15 to November 30. Plan around that seasonal access. Alberta Parks allows pets in provincial parks; keep dogs on a leash no longer than two metres. The listed group size limit for this trail is 35, so organized groups should check the permit rules before setting out.

You can add a separate walk around the lake, including a plank crossing over the Elbow River. That is not part of the 2.8 km out and back. Beyond the lake, the route connects with Big Elbow Trail and other backcountry routes. If you only want this short hike, use the lake as your turnaround and do not count the shore circuit or onward trails as part of it.