Sawmill Snowshoe Loop

Posted January 3rd, 2008 by Chris

Distance:

5.1 km

Difficulty:

Easy

Elev. gain:

121 meters

Time required:

2 - 3 hours

Bikes permitted:

Dogs permitted:

Yes

Download GPX

Directions to trail head

Drive west of Calgary on Highway #1 approximately 60 kilometres. Turn south on highway #40 and drive 50 kilometres. At the intersection of highway #40 and Kananaskis Lakes Trail turn right (west) onto Kananaskis Lakes Trail and drive approximately 2.3 kilometres and turn right again onto highway #742 (the Smith-Dorrien/Spray Trail). Drive 10 kilometres to the Sawmill Day Use Area. The other option is to leave from Canmore and drive south on Highway #742 approximately 53 kilometres to the Sawmill Day Use Area.

Hazards on trail

The trail crosses the stream several times. Use caution.

Hike Description

This trail is a loop below Mounts Inflexible and Lawson and shares sections of the yellow/green and red cross country ski trails in the area. If you follow the loop clockwise the total climb is very gradual. Start the loop counterclockwise and a very steep 13% grade awaits as you complete almost the total elevation gain in approximately 1 kilometer. The choice is yours.

If you follow the loop clockwise, the trail starts to the left of the sign at the trailhead. Look for the survey tape and the orange snowshoe signs. The photo below is a typical example of the condition of the trail.

Sawmill Snowshoe Trail Kananaskis

The trail would be classified as overgrown by summer hiking trail standards but walking through the new growth is part of the fun of snowshoeing and even though you are probably never more than a 100 meters from the wider cross country ski trails in the area. The close quarters adds to the enjoyment of this trek. The trail follows a creek to a overlook where you get a decent view of Mount Chester. The views of Mount Murray are also impressive if you follow the trail clockwise.

Mount Chester Kananaskis