Wellness in Kananaskis Country: Alberta’s Hidden Mountain Playground
Relax in nature.
Imagine relaxing in the soothing waters of an expansive hot tub, accompanied by the serenade of a cascading waterfall, and then picture the pool also ringed by the rugged peaks of Alberta’s Kananaskis Country. This is the best of both wellness worlds: time in nature and a sumptuous spa experience.
And you don’t have to just imagine it anymore: at the Kananaskis Nordic Spa, hot pools in a variety of temperatures, wet and dry saunas, and a thrilling cold plunge await. It’s an ideal place to unwind, with options from an expansive menu of massage and wellness treatments, after enjoying the plethora of outdoor activities suitable for even the most timid of adventurers in Kananaskis Country.
Kananaskis Nordic Spa
A mere 60-minute drive from Calgary, Kananaskis treats travellers to a wild romp through the favoured natural playground of the city’s intrepid locals. Sweeping mountain vistas, verdant alpine meadows, and an extensive trail network for hiking, biking, nordic and downhill skiing, and snowshoeing, alongside the Scandinavian-inspired spa, make Kananaskis a must-visit, but most travellers bypass this spectacular park in favour of the comfortable accommodations and coveted mountain views of Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.
However, a wellness refuge has now emerged in a sea of rustic campgrounds and sparse accommodation options: Skyridge Glamping, opened in early 2025. Located in the heart of the park (but easily accessible from Calgary and Highway 1), the property offers ample opportunities for connecting with nature, as well as relaxation, in a spectacular setting. As a bonus, with an advance reservation, weary wanderers can treat any muscle or mental fatigue with a soak in the aforementioned Kananaskis Nordic Spa, just a short drive down the road.
Skyridge Glamping
The adult-only glamping experience is described as an “escape,” and the Sky Box, a microcabin that offers a modern oasis without sacrificing the beauty of the surrounding nature, is the ideal place to do so. Along with a full kitchen and sleek bathroom, with a walk-in shower and heated floors, the comfortable king-size bed with accompanying mountain views creates a space that you won’t have to—or want to—leave. (A yoga mat and instructions for exercises is also included in the room.)
If you do choose to leave, the resort offers opportunities through their partners in the park to go horseback riding on well-marked trails, golf in the shadow of the park’s peaks, hike up to breathtaking vantage points, and paddle on pristine lakes. A gear closet is also available for borrowing outdoor items, including backpacks, poles, snowshoes, headlamps, and maps. And if you forgot groceries? That’s no problem either. A partnership with Spud means you can have whatever you need easily delivered.
Kananaskis Nordic Spa
Alberta’s Kananaskis Country offers the opportunity to breathe in crisp mountain air while strolling along a trail, recharge in complete comfort at Skyridge Glamping, and savour the steaming water of the spa. A not-so-secret spot to clear your mind, refresh your body, and revel in nature.
