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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
233 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.7 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-3h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Barrier Lake Trail

Barrier Lake Trail
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Barrier Lake trail is a smooth and gentle multi-use trail that sees hikers, backpackers, and cyclists. It travels across the Barrier Dam and into the forest offering excellent views of the lake through the clearings. This is a great hike for families looking to explore trails around the day-use area.

Route Description for Barrier Lake Trail

Barrier Lake Trail starts at one of the most popular day-use areas in Kananaskis. It’s proximity to the city, concentration of easy to moderate trails, and excellent day use area make it a regular stop for all sorts of visitors. Don’t be discouraged by the crowds, you will soon escape them.

This is a great family-friendly trail that is commonly used by those heading to the nearby backcountry site at Jewel Bay. It is an easy trail with a moderate distance that is an excellent way to find solitude at Barrier Lake.

From the parking lot, make your way past the bathrooms towards the dam. Cross the dam leaving picnickers and swimmers behind. After 1.3 km, you will come to a junction with the popular Prairie View trail. You’ll stay low and take the trail to the left towards Jewel Bay and Stoney Trail.

In another kilometre, a connector trail joins the main trail at a small junction. Ignore this and continue on as views across the lake come into clear view. You’ll be in and out of the forest switching from single track to decommissioned road on this trail.

500 m from the junction, the one and only steep section appears. Don’t get discouraged, it is short and you won’t be expecting any more steep areas. Another kilometre brings you to the junction with the Jewel Pass and Quiate Creek connector trail. This is a regular turn around point; however, if you continue roughly 100 m you’ll come to a large cook area at the Jewel Bay campsite. This is an excellent spot to stop for lunch and enjoy the lake with some amenities. Return the way you came, always staying right at the junctions until you reach the dam, where you will find the parking lot on the left.

Find other amazing hikes in Kananaskis Country

Insider Hints for Barrier Lake Trail

  • Pack a picnic lunch and go the extra 328ft to Jewel Bay campground to enjoy the picnic tables and swimming opportunities in the bay
  • Reserve a backcountry site at Jewel Bay for the whole family. This is the perfect campsite for beginners and kids
  • If you want to gain some vertical, head up to Prairie View on your way back. The lookouts from this trail are excellent.

Getting to the Barrier Lake Trail Trailhead

From Calgary, merge onto the Trans-Canada Highway westbound towards Banff. Follow this until you reach Highway 40. Exit onto Highway 40 and enter Kananaskis. Barrier Lake day use area will be on the right hand side.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    May-September

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Jewel Bay

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Barrier Lake Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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