Prairie View Trail

Hiking up the Prairie View Trail to the lookout point over Barrier Lake was one of the most visually rewarding hikes relative to the effort I’ve done in the Canadian Rockies. It’s a smooth well-maintained trail the entire way, with stunning views over Barrier Lake. At just under an hour up, it can quickly be done at sunrise or sunset as well. If you choose to do a sunset or sunrise hike you can rest assured knowing there is no scrambling involved or scary cliffs to fall off of on the trail. There aren’t many viewpoints along the trail, but it’s fast and easy, so it goes by quickly. At about 4 km, you’ll find yourself in the clearing and start getting views. Take some photos and keep moving – you’re almost to the main viewpoint over Barrier Lake, which is about 5 km into your hike. The trail will break left or right, with a sign saying it is not maintained any further if you take a right. Take a left for the viewpoint. You’ll find a large slab, likely with some other hikers on it as this is one of the most popular trails in Kananaskis. Enjoy for a bit – the view is terrific, and you didn’t have to work too hard to get it! (Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada)