Hogarth Lakes Loop

Overview

This is the definition of an easy, family-friendly winter wander: a 2.6–2.8 mile total loop (4.2–4.5 km) with roughly 100 ft/30 m of gain. It’s popular for snowshoeing and mellow winter hiking, and it stays mostly in forest with frequent openings along small lakes.

Trail Experience

Start from the Burstall Pass Day Use Area and follow the signed snowshoe route (orange/red diamonds). A gentle path meanders through spruce forest, around Mud Lake and the Hogarth Lakes, with a few simple bridge or creek crossings. Clockwise travel is common for straightforward navigation and unfolding views toward Mount Chester and Commonwealth Peak. Mid‑winter, some folks shortcut across lake ice—but only if you’re fully confident it’s solid. Otherwise, stick to the marked shoreline route.

Getting There & Parking

Park at the Burstall Pass Day Use Area, directly across from the Chester Lake trailhead on the Smith‑Dorrien/Spray Lakes Road. The lot is sizable and has an outhouse. The Smith‑Dorrien is gravel and often snow‑packed, icy, and potholed in winter—drive slowly and come equipped.

Best Time to Go

This loop shines from about December through April when snow is deep and the route is well packed. Shoulder seasons can be soggy with variable or thin ice, and summer travel can feel wet and indistinct. Aim for earlier starts for firmer surfaces and fewer people during busy weekends.

Know Before You Go

A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for vehicles. Stay on the signed snowshoe trail; adjacent terrain (like toward Burstall Pass) enters avalanche country. Cell service along Smith‑Dorrien is unreliable. Winter tires are strongly recommended; carry a shovel, extra layers, and a hot drink. Typical kit: snowshoes or microspikes (conditions dictate), trekking poles, headlamp (short daylight), and an offline map. Dogs are allowed but must remain leashed, and waste must be packed out.

Wildlife & Nearby Options

Expect a good chance of moose tracks and friendly gray jays; bears are active in warmer months. If you want a longer day with more elevation, nearby Chester Lake offers a bigger payoff, and the flats below Burstall Pass are a pleasant extension (only within the signed snowshoe area if you’re avoiding avalanche terrain).