Join fellow planning professionals and outdoor enthusiasts for a guided learning hike along the Raven's End Trail at the Mount Yamnuska Trailhead in Kananaskis on Saturday, August 29, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM. 

Led by Peggy Holroyd, RPP, MCIP, Planning Team Lead for the Kananaskis Region with Alberta Forestry and Parks, this field excursion will provide valuable insights into recent trail improvements, trail planning and management practices, Indigenous relationships with and stewardship of the landscape, and the approaches used to accommodate both hikers and growing tourism in Kananaskis.

Mount Yamnuska (Îyâ Mnathka, meaning 'flat-faced rock' in the Stoney Nakoda language) is an iconic landmark with deep cultural significance to the Stoney Nakoda Nations and other Indigenous Peoples. Throughout the hike, participants will explore how planning decisions shape the management of protected landscapes while respecting their cultural and environmental significance.

Designed for planning professionals and anyone interested in hiking, recreation planning, park management, and sustainable tourism, this hike covers approximately 8 kilometres round trip and will take about 4 hours at a moderate pace, with opportunities for discussion and learning throughout the route. 

This hike is best suited for individuals with some prior hiking experience who are comfortable completing hikes on mountain trails in variable weather conditions. Participants are responsible for assessing their own fitness and preparedness and should ensure they have the appropriate clothing, footwear, water, food, and safety equipment required for the conditions. Participants are also encouraged to review the Alberta Parks' hiking and backcountry safety recommendations before attending and bring the following items listed on the Alberta Parks website here: https://cms.albertaparks.ca/albertaparks-ca/advisories-and-public-safety/outdoor-safety/hiking-and-backcountry-safety/. 

By registering for and attending this event, participants acknowledge that they are taking part voluntarily and assume responsibility for the risks associated with hiking. APPI, its organizers, and hike leaders accept no responsibility or liability for any injury, loss, damage, or other incident that may occur during participation.

We look forward to exploring the trail together while discussing the planning principles and management strategies that help balance visitor experiences with environmental stewardship.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM to approximately 2:00 PM
Location: Mount Yamnuska Trailhead, Kananaskis
Distance: Approximately 8 km round trip
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate mountain hike

Transportation: Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation. APPI also plans to facilitate a rideshare option for those travelling from Calgary, subject to driver availability. Additional details will be shared with registered participants closer to the event.

Meeting Time & Location: 9:45 AM, Mount Yamnuska Trailhead Parking Area