Discover hidden trails in Kananaskis with ACMG guide Leith Monaghan. Explore Ptarmigan Cirque, Pickle Jar Lakes, and Mount Lipsett away from the crowds.
Discover hidden trails in Kananaskis with ACMG guide Leith Monaghan. Explore Ptarmigan Cirque, Pickle Jar Lakes, and Mount Lipsett away from the crowds.
- Highwood Pass - Venture off the Bow Valley path to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Highwood and Elbow-Sheep Wildland! Traveling south on Highway 40 offers a spectacular journey, featuring stunning subalpine forests and the expansive views of Highwood Pass, the highest paved road in Canada at 2206 meters above sea level. Both sides of…
- Highwood Pass - Venture off the Bow Valley path to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Highwood and Elbow-Sheep Wildland! Traveling south on Highway 40 offers a spectacular journey, featuring stunning subalpine forests and the expansive views of Highwood Pass, the highest paved road in Canada at 2206 meters above sea level. Both sides of the pass present incredible opportunities for exploration and hiking.
Experience this region through three distinct professionally guided hikes! At Ptarmigan Cirque, encounter alpine meadows, inquisitive marmots, and fossilized sea creatures from ancient eras. On the hike to Pickle Jar Lakes, uncover the story behind its unique name. Finally, challenge your stamina by reaching the rocky ridge line of Mount Lipsett. The effort is truly rewarded by the stunning views. Enjoy locally sourced baked goods as a trail snack. Looking to unwind nearby? Relax and rejuvenate after your hike at Moose Meadow Inn or River Retreat Kananaskis.
For those eager to tackle all three hikes, explore the Hike The Highwood Bundle.

- Snacks
- Hiking Poles
- Snacks
- Hiking Poles
- Entrance fees
- Private transportation
- Entrance fees
- Private transportation
The Path Less Taken wants to connect you to the local landscape through outdoor adventure and experiential learning. You guide, Leith Monaghan is ACMG certified and has been exploring the Elbow-Sheep since the 2000’s. She will show you why this is the best kept secret in the mountains and why it was worth leaving the crowds of Banff and Lake Louise…
The Path Less Taken wants to connect you to the local landscape through outdoor adventure and experiential learning. You guide, Leith Monaghan is ACMG certified and has been exploring the Elbow-Sheep since the 2000’s. She will show you why this is the best kept secret in the mountains and why it was worth leaving the crowds of Banff and Lake Louise behind to explore this gem of Kananaskis Country.
Three trails are offered as part of the Hike to the Highwood series. The 2025 dates are as follows:
Ptarmigan Cirque – July 08, August 02
Pickle Jar Lakes – July 09, August 03
Mount Lipsett – July 10, August 04
These hikes can all be booked privately. Please contact for dates.
- Not recommended for travelers with knee problems
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.