If you like a dose of adventure and aren’t afraid of heights, you’ll have a blast. I couldn’t stop smiling while doing this hike, because it is just so much fun.

Kananaskis Country

You find Nihahi Ridge in Kananaskis Country in the Canadian Rockies. Kananaskis is also called K-Country by the cool kids. K-Country is an area west of Calgary with many parks, including five provincial parks, four wild land provincial parks and much more. As you can imagine Kananaskis hides many awesome hikes, the Nihahi Ridge hike being one of them!

(Definitely check the video at the end of this article to get even more excited)

From Campground to the Top

The hike starts from the Little Elbow Campground. This is convenient if you want to spend a night at the campground and start your hike early in the morning. We parked up our van the evening before, planning to hike the next day. Be aware that Little Elbow Campground is quite expensive. We paid 26 dollars to park up for one night. The campground has toilets, (untreated) water and a fire pit.

We were excited to get up the ridge, although the conditions weren’t ideal. Heavy wildfires were spreading in British Columbia and Alberta – this is unfortunately something that happens sometimes during hot summers. When we got out of the van we knew immediately. The sky was filled with smoke, making the scenery very hazy. A pity, but we had set our minds on doing this hike and the fires were far away from us, so we went for it.

The first meters you follow the main road until you reach the official start of the hike and the forest. There are many little paths; so make sure to check every sign. It’s a nice, small track taking you through the forest up to a meadow. The trail keeps going up and getting steeper step by step. Once you’re almost above the tree line you start hiking on rocks. Keep going uphill and don’t forget to look back. The view gets better and better!

At one point you follow a small track on some gravel along the right side of the mountain. Here you’ll have to do a tiny scramble of a few meters, but nothing too bad (if you’re not afraid of heights).

Route Up to Nihahi Ridge

Once you finish the little scramble there are a few tracks up, and you quickly gain altitude. I’m pretty sure all tracks lead to the top, but we followed the right hand one. Then you’ll reach a large buttress, marking the end of the hike.

Here you have two options. You either stop or you keep going. Of course we wanted to walk ON the ridge, so we kept going! Once the track finishes there is the option to climb up some rocks and walk on the ridge. Here the fun part started! The little climb up was quite vertical, but not exposed. There were large rocks to hold on to and climb up.

Hikes where you have to do a bit of scrambling and climbing are my favourite ones. A combination of fun and adrenaline in a magnificent scenery. 

When you reach the top of Nihahi Ridge you feel mighty! You balance at 2,345m high on a ridge. One side of the ridge was very steep, while the other side was a slab, making it safer. I felt the adrenaline pumping in me.

Don’t climb to the top of the ridge if you’re not confident on your feet or with heights! Always be careful and smart.

Because of the smoke we didn’t get the best views, but it still was one of the best day hikes I’ve done in Canada. This hike is just so much fun. I still get a smile on my face when thinking about it.

Video Nihahi Ridge Trail

Is Nihahi Ridge a dangerous hike?

In general Nihahi Ridge is not a dangerous hike, but this depends if you go all the way to the top of the ridge. The track to the official end of the hike isn’t dangerous, but the second part to the top could be considered dangerous since you are very exposed on top of the ridge (on one side).

When I was doing my research before hiking up Nihahi Ridge, I was a bit worried about the scramble and climb up to the ridge – but having done it now know I had no reason to be worried. You just always need to stay focused.

I have done a lot of hikes that were pretty high and steep, so if you are not confident with heights, you should definitely not do the second part of Nihahi Ridge. Also please always wear proper shoes – you would be surprised how many people I’ve seen in flip flops on hikes…

More hikes in Canada: A week in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. 

Nihahi Ridge Hiking Route Description

The Nihahi Ridge hike is about 10-11km return and the elevation gain is around 450m, depending on how far on the ridge you go. It took us about 2 hours up and 1,5h down, but we were in a hurry to get nice light up there and we didn’t really take any breaks.

• Start at Little Elbow Campground and walk towards the end of the road. Go past the gate to the trailhead. About half a kilometre later you see a sign on your right where you need to get off the main trail and go into the forest toward Nihahi.
• Don’t forget to take that turn off the main road into the forest! There are many trails, so it’s easy to get confused. Once you get off the main road, you slowly go up through the forest until you reach a meadow. From here you already get some views on the surrounding mountains.
• Once you pass the meadow the trail gains elevation rapidly, with views getting better and better. The track climbs continuously, with an exposed section at the side of the mountain. After a little (and easy) scramble you’re almost at the top. You just keep following the clear track.
• At the end of the trail you have the opportunity to go further and walk on the ridge. Climb up the rocks and access the ridge. Be careful when doing this.

How To Get To Nihahi Ridge Trailhead?

• The start of the track is near Bragg Creek,  about 40 minutes from Calgary
• Take Highway 66 from Calgary until the roads ends
• Park at the Little Elbow Campground
• This road is closed from 1 December to 15 May (because of winter conditions)

TIP: there is a big car park, but if you want to cut a few (boring on the road) hundred meters from the hike you can park close to the campground. You just drive towards the campground, and at one point you’ll see a tiny car park on your right and a big sign: LAST PARKING FOR TRAILHEAD (or something like that). It fits about 10 cars.

Thinking of working and travel in Canada? Find out more how you can do that: Work and Travel in Canada. 

Where To Stay near Nihahi Ridge – Kananaskis?

Since this trail is near Calgary (only a 40 minutes drive) you can either stay in the city or spend a night at the Little Elbow Campground.

Little Elbow Campground

This is a large campground in the Little Elbow Provincial Recreation Area with a lot of space. There are over 60 sites for RV’s or tents and about 30 walk-in tent sites.

We didn’t make a reservation, but if you like to be sure, you can reserve a spot on the Alberta Parks website. It’s a cute campground with nice surroundings. Walk to the Forget Me Not pond, stroll through the forest and of course hike up Nihahi Ridge!

Calgary accommodation

If you have a car you can easily stay in Calgary. Calgary is a large city with lots of accommodation options, from hotels to hostels and AirBnB’s. If you don’t have Airbnb yet, use this link to get a discount.

Also on Booking.com there are plenty of options for accommodation in Calgary.

Ready to hike? Let’s go!

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Disclaimer: some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which supports this site without costing you anything extra. Thanks for helping me buy my coffee 

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I couldn’t believe me eyes when I first arrived at this place. Emerald Lake is prone to reflections, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, and to finish the picture: there is a lodge right at the water.

Emerald Lake Lodge

Emerald Lake Lodge is the only accommodation at the lake, and it’s beautiful. The main building goes way back to 1902, when the Canadian Pacific Railway built it. More than 100 years later, the wooden and fine structure kept its historic charm.

We checked in for two days at the lodge, and I was ready for two days of nature and just spoiling myself. It was November, and the winter had just arrived in Canada with a big snow dump and temperatures to -18 degrees Celsius. Emerald Lake is beautiful in every season, but the snow made it extra special.

The lodge exists out of multiple chalet style cabins, and we got one with lake view. Every room has a balcony and a fireplace in the room, adding to that cosy chalet feeling.

How To Relax at The Lodge?

Besides the stunning Emerald Lake right in front of you, the lodge offers a lot of ways to relax (me like!). On the very top of my list is the HOT TUB.

Hot Tubbing

Those who know me, know I have a soft spot for hot tubs. And this one was a special one. The tub is outside (remember temperatures are -18C), and has a view on the mountains. Well, that is if it isn’t cloudy. When I jumped in the tub the clouds were covering the mountains. No view for me, but I still enjoyed it. I even got some company from a squirrel playing in the trees.

Cosy time at the fireplace!

When you’re done soaking you can enjoy the fire in your room, because YES, every room has its own fireplace! Visiting Emerald Lake Lodge in winter gives you that extra joy of seeing the cold and snow outside while you’re warm inside at the fire. The staff even comes to your room to prepare the fire for you (not that I can’t make my own fire… ). And who doesn’t love a good old fire? Drink some wine, and the experience is complete!

If you can handle the cold, Emerald Lake Lodge also has an outdoor fire pit. Can you see where I’m going? S’mooores! I had never done s’mores, and wanted to experience this real Canadian tradition so badly. The staff lit the fire, and I finally tried some s’mores. For those who are also new to this popular Canadian sweet: s’mores are white marshmallows melted and squashed between biscuits. You can even add some chocolate if you want.

Some fun for the belly!

Another way to relax is by treating your taste buds. The lodge has great dining, with a variety of tastes. From local meat like bison and caribou, to fish and fresh vegetables, there is something for everyone. And let’s not forget: all of with a view on the lake and mountains.

For the internet addicts – there is no wifi in the rooms! It’s perfect to tune off the online world, and enjoy your company. And if you really are getting withdrawal symptoms, there is free wifi in the main lodge.

Activities In The Area

This area is one big playground, with Emerald Lake Lodge as a great and comfortable base. Here are a few things to do when spending time at the lodge.

1. Explore Emerald Lake

Enjoy Emerald Lake to the fullest! This turquoise lake is a treasure, and you should make the most of it. You can take a walk around the lake, which is the perfect way to take it all in. It will take you 5.2km, or about two hours. There is also a little waterfall that you can visit. The track starts at the car park.

Deep in winter, it is also a great place for snowshoeing on and around the lake and cross-country skiing. Just be aware of avalanches. At the lake you find information which area to avoid. We visited the lodge a bit too early to see the lake frozen, but might come back later in winter to see how it looks with loads of snow. In summer Emerald Lake is the place to be for canoeing.

2. Photography

Emerald Lake is the spot to get your camera out and get shooting. The lake has stunning reflections, from many angles! The advantage of going in early winter is that you get snow AND reflections, which is in my opinion the best!

3. Natural Bridge

The Natural Bridge is a beautiful force of nature. It’s a natural rock formation, looking a bit like a bridge – although I didn’t really see it. It’s a very impressive piece of work though, and the rushing water makes you want to hold on to the edge extra firm.

We visited the Natural Bridge before checking into Emerald Lake Lodge, and visited it again two days later. The scenery had changed totally!! Suddenly the waterfall was frozen and there was ice everywhere. Winter had arrived!

4. Field

Field is a cute, little town at only a 15-minute drive of Emerald Lake. There isn’t much, but the houses are just adorable. There is one restaurant, Truffle Pigs Bistro, and it’s luckily a good one. I ordered a flatbread, which I rarely do (because it’s just a piece of bread..), but this time I gave it a try. Man, was I surprised. The cook managed to create an incredible tasty flatbread, with a mix of flavours. It really was way above expectations! Maybe I should order flatbread more often..

5. Takakkaw Waterfall

The Takakkaw waterfall is an impressive and high waterfall. It has a height of about 380meters. The road is to get there is open from June to mid-October and closed the rest of the year due to avalanches. You can visit in winter, but avalanche training is required.

How to get to Emerald Lake?

You find Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, in British Columbia. It is 30 minutes west of Lake Louise and 2,5 hours from the Calgary International Airport.

You then take the Trans-Canada Highway towards Field and Golden. The turn off to Emerald Lake is located 1km west of Field. Follow the road until you reach the lake. Emerald Lake Lodge is at the lake. On the way there you will also pass the Natural Bridge on your left, makes a perfect stop! If you’re visiting Emerald Lake Lodge in winter, be extra careful for the roads. They might be a bit icy and slippery.

I was hosted on this trip, but I really enjoyed the entire experience. From the rooms, to the views, to the staff, it was all great. It’s a bit a more luxurious stay, but I would definitely come back here for an anniversary or special occasion. It’s the perfect setting for a weekend away and to get your romance and nature on

Tempted? You can book a room via the Emerald Lake Lodge site.

And one more reflection picture, ’cause I just can’t help it!

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What’s your favourite winter destination? Or are you more a summer person? Let me know!

Read more about my Canadian adventures:

Maligne Lake Canoe Trip

Hiking Garibaldi Lake

My First Aurora Borealis

Welcome To Canada

Disclosure: This blog was sponsored by Emerald Lake Lodge. All opinions, are as always, my own. Some links might contain affiliate links. That means that by no extra cost of your own, you will be supporting this blog by buying something through these links. Thank you!

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Not what you’d think though. I haven’t explored much nature yet, but I have been very productive. Among many other things, Nico and I bought a car, pimped it, arranged insurance, opened a bank account, got a Canadian phone plan and learned about the tipping system.

For those of you who don’t know what I’m doing here: I left New Zealand after almost 4 years, and am ready to explore and live in Canada. A new country, new nature, new adventures and … bears. The latter is actually not something I’m looking forward to (I’m a wimp, remember).

Hot hot heat

Arriving from the New Zealand winter to Canadian summer was a bit of a shock, and left me sick for a week. Temperatures here have been between 27-33 degrees, very hot for a girl used to New Zealand weather.

On top of that, British Columbia has been having lots of wildfires due to the hot weather. There has been smoke in the sky for the entire time… until today! It rained, and it is the first time I’ve seen blue sky. Believe me, it is weird to not see any sky. It felt like the apocalypse had arrived.

The smoke didn’t bother us too much, as we had to get everything sorted before heading on our road trip. Between all the preparations we did find some time to visit Vancouver cafes, go climbing and do a little hike to Cabin Lake in Cypress Hill Provincial Park.

Cypress Hill Provincial Park is in North Vancouver, and easy to reach. There are supposed to be nice views on Vancouver, but we didn’t see anything because of the smoke. The hike to Cabin Lake is still very worth it though!

You hike up 45 minutes and arrive at a beautiful, peaceful lake. It was the perfect refreshment after a hot hike up.

We also visited the Brandywine waterfalls, south of Whistler. The photo at the top of this page is taken by me at the falls. I’ll write an article about the impressive falls, and how to get there, later!

Love Wagon

So we bought a car… It’s a white van with blue interior and a mirror on the ceiling. Because of the mirror we baptised it the…Love Wagon. I love it!

It has an electrical seat which turns into a bed. Because we’re both quite tall we didn’t fit in the bed, so we threw two seats out, extended the bed with boxes, put a mattress on it and now we’re sweet. It also has lots of little storage areas, which I love! Perfect to loose all my stuff. I’ll share the result of the makeover one of these weeks in a video!

What Now?

I’m writing this in Squamish, an hour north of Vancouver, and we’re getting ready for our first overnight hike to Garibaldi Lake. I am very excited, because the smoke has gone and the views will be superb.

It’s a three hours hike to the campground at the lake. We’re staying two nights, so we have time to explore other peaks and views. One of those is Panorama Ridge, which we want to do for sunrise. This means hiking in the dark and hoping not to see any bears!

Some tips and information for newcomers to Canada:

• Canada – or at least Vancouver, is very expensive.
• Be prepared to pay a lot for car insurance. We paid over 2000 dollars for a year. Apparently it is cheaper to buy a car and insurance in other provinces.
• The cheapest supermarket (we’ve found so far) is Canadian Super Store or Walmart.
• There is wifi everywhere (cafes, supermarket, restaurants).
• Cars drive on the right.
• A data plan for your phone is very expensive. Expect to pay at least 50 dollar per month for 1GB of data (+unlimited texting).
• Book your hikes in advance, and do some research. Sometimes you have to call, some you have to book 2 months in advance online.
• Talk loud to each other or sing to scare away bears while hiking.
• For the girls: having your period doesn’t attract bears more (we don’t want to get eaten first, right?).
• Park passes are required for entry into any national park in Canada (this year they are free though, to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday).
• Toilets are called washrooms.
• Tips are expected in Canada. Tip 15% for good service, and 20% for really good service. No tips necessary in chains like Starbucks or Tim Hortons.
• Taxes are not included on the price tag, so on the displayed price you have to add taxes and tip.
• In B.C. foreign drivers licenses (in English) are valid for 6 months.

Have you been to Canada? How did you experience it? Any tips for a newcomer like me? 

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