Running Rain Lake: Complete 2025 Hiking & Fishing Guide

📘 Table of Contents

What Makes Running Rain Lake Special in 2025?

Running Rain Lake offers a genuine backcountry experience with excellent cutthroat trout fishing, spectacular mountain scenery, and the chance to experience true wilderness solitude in Kananaskis Country.

• Pristine Alpine Setting: Nestled in a dramatic cirque below the towering Elk Range peaks, this remote lake provides breathtaking mountain views and untouched wilderness atmosphere. The lake sits at approximately 2,270 metres elevation, surrounded by rugged alpine terrain that changes dramatically with the seasons.
• Excellent Cutthroat Trout Fishing: Running Rain lake is stocked with Cutthroat Trout and offers anglers the chance to catch these native Alberta fish in their natural habitat. While the lake is relatively shallow in many areas, patient anglers can find success with proper techniques.
• True Wilderness Experience: Unlike many popular Kananaskis trails, this undesignated route rarely sees crowds, offering visitors genuine solitude and the chance to disconnect from civilization. It’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring.
• Challenging Adventure: The trail’s reputation for difficulty, including mandatory creek crossings and boggy terrain, attracts experienced hikers seeking a more adventurous alternative to typical day hikes.

This trail perfectly embodies the raw, unfiltered beauty of Alberta’s backcountry, offering rewards that match the effort required to reach them. For those seeking authentic Kananaskis hiking experiences, Running Rain Lake delivers an unforgettable adventure.

How Challenging Is the Running Rain Lake Trail Really?

The Running Rain Lake trail presents moderate to difficult challenges primarily due to creek crossings, muddy conditions, and an unmarked route that demands navigation skills and proper preparation.

• Creek Crossing Challenges: We started the hike waist deep in the coldest water on the planet according to some hikers, though most crossings are ankle to knee-deep. The main Storm Creek crossing can be particularly challenging during high water periods.
• Boggy Terrain and Muskeg: The rest of the 2 hour hike was filled with muskeg and treacherous up hill terrain, making proper waterproof footwear absolutely essential. The meadow approaches to the lake remain saturated even during dry periods.
• Unmarked and Unmaintained Route: This is an undesignated route and is not maintained, requiring hikers to follow cairns and use navigation skills, especially after rock slides have altered sections of the trail.
• Physical Demands: The 3.8-mile round trip includes 944 feet of elevation gain and typically takes 2-2.5 hours to complete, though difficult conditions can extend this significantly.

While experienced hikers find this trail manageable with proper preparation, beginners should consider gaining experience on maintained trails first. The combination of route-finding challenges and wet conditions makes this more demanding than typical day hikes in the region.

Where Do You Find the Running Rain Lake Trailhead?

The unmarked Running Rain Lake trailhead is located on Highway 40, approximately 10 kilometres south of Highwood Pass, where hikers must park at designated pullouts near the guardrail.

• Highway 40 Location: Park 4.3 km south of Mount Lipsett day-use area in a parking area on the west side of the highway where the guard rail ends. This puts you about 152 kilometres southwest of Calgary.
• Parking Options: Look for parking lanes beside the highway where the guardrail ends, or continue 500 metres south to a flat area for additional parking. The trailhead disappears quickly into the treeline and is easy to miss.
• Seasonal Access: This section of Hwy 40 is closed Dec 1–Jun 14, making the trail inaccessible during winter months. Plan your visit between mid-June and November for reliable highway access.
• Navigation from Trailhead: Locate the trail at the end of the guardrail. Drop down a few meters to the first stream braid flowing from Storm Creek, where the adventure truly begins.

The unmarked nature of this trailhead means it’s easily overlooked, so use GPS coordinates or detailed directions. Many hikers recommend driving slowly through the area to spot the parking opportunities and trailhead markers.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Running Rain Lake?

The optimal time to visit Running Rain Lake is from July through October, when Highway 40 is open, creek levels are manageable, and weather conditions provide the most comfortable hiking experience.

• Peak Season (July-September): July to October is the most popular time of year to visit Running Rain Lake Trail. These months offer the most stable weather, although they also bring peak mosquito populations and the highest visitor numbers.
• Early Season Considerations (June-July): While Highway 40 reopens mid-June, early season hiking may encounter higher creek levels from snowmelt and muddy trail conditions. However, wildflower displays in the meadows can be spectacular during this period.
• Fall Advantages (September-October): September and early October provide excellent conditions with reduced insect activity, comfortable temperatures, and stunning fall colours. Creek crossings are typically easier during this drier period.
• Weather Monitoring: The rivers and creeks may be flowing faster than usual, expect high water levels during and after rainy periods, making timing crucial for safe creek crossings.

Consider checking recent trail reports and weather forecasts before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in alpine environments. Early morning starts help avoid afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months.

What Should You Expect From the Creek Crossings?

The Running Rain Lake trail features multiple creek crossings, with the main Storm Creek ford being the most significant challenge that requires careful planning and appropriate gear.

• Initial Stream Braids: You may find a log or beaver dam that bridges the braid however trying to keep your feet dry is pointless. These first crossings serve as a preview of what’s to come and help hikers assess conditions.
• Main Storm Creek Crossing: In another 50ms or so you’ll have to ford Storm Creek. An extra pair of light shoes is a good idea. This crossing is typically the deepest and most challenging, especially during high water periods.
• Additional Water Features: There are smaller creek crossings, but they can be bridged or jumped easily compared to the main crossings. These minor water features become more manageable once you’re already committed to wet feet.
• Water Temperature Reality: Expect extremely cold water year-round, as these are fed by snowmelt and alpine springs. Many hikers describe the water as shockingly cold, even during summer months.

Plan to get wet – there’s simply no avoiding water contact on this trail. Bring extra socks, quick-drying clothing, and consider trekking poles for stability during crossings. Some experienced hikers recommend lightweight water shoes for the crossings.

What’s the Fishing Like at Running Rain Lake?

Running Rain Lake offers excellent cutthroat trout fishing in a pristine alpine setting, though success requires patience and proper technique due to the lake’s shallow nature and clear water conditions.

• Fish Species and Regulations: Trout Total 2 under 30 cm according to current Alberta fishing regulations. The lake is stocked with cutthroat trout, though reports suggest some areas may experience periodic winterkill affecting fish populations.
• Lake Characteristics: You can find small Cutthroat in this lake however there are reports of winterkill. The lake is relatively shallow in many areas, making sight fishing possible but requiring stealthy approaches and fine presentations.
• Fishing Conditions: You’ll need a fishing license to try your luck, and the remote location means you’ll often have the entire lake to yourself. The clear water and minimal fishing pressure can make fish quite wary.
• Seasonal Considerations: There are a lot of bugs around the lake during the summer months, which provides natural food for trout but can make fishing conditions challenging for anglers without proper bug protection.

Successful anglers recommend lightweight tackle, natural presentations, and early morning or evening fishing when trout are most active. The pristine setting makes this destination worthwhile even when fishing is slow. For those planning broader alpine fishing adventures, Running Rain Lake represents one of Alberta’s most authentic backcountry fishing experiences.

What Essential Gear Do You Need for Running Rain Lake?

Success on the Running Rain Lake trail depends heavily on proper waterproof gear, navigation tools, and preparation for challenging creek crossings and boggy terrain conditions.

• Waterproof Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are absolutely essential, with many experienced hikers recommending gaiters as well. Some bring lightweight water shoes specifically for creek crossings and pack extra dry socks.
• Navigation Equipment: GPS device or smartphone with offline maps, compass, and the ability to follow cairns and unmarked trails. The route can be confusing, especially after rock slides have altered traditional paths.
• Weather Protection: Waterproof rain gear, warm layers for changing mountain weather, and sun protection for open meadow sections. Alpine weather can change rapidly, making layering systems crucial.
• Creek Crossing Gear: Trekking poles provide essential stability during water crossings, while some hikers bring lightweight camp shoes or sandals specifically for fording creeks safely.

Don’t underestimate the importance of insect protection during summer months – the mosquito populations can be overwhelming without proper repellent and clothing coverage. Pack first aid supplies and inform others of your hiking plans given the remote, undesignated nature of this trail.

What Permits and Parking Requirements Apply to Running Rain Lake?

Visiting Running Rain Lake requires a Kananaskis Conservation Pass for parking, plus additional permits if you plan to fish or camp in this designated backcountry area.

• Kananaskis Conservation Pass: A Conservation Pass is required to park at Provincial Parks and public use lands in the Kananaskis Country and Bow Valley Region. Daily passes cost $15 while annual passes are $90 and can cover up to three vehicles from the same household.
• Fishing License Requirements: A valid Alberta fishing license is mandatory for anyone planning to fish Running Rain Lake. Licenses can be purchased online through the Alberta government website or at authorized retailers throughout the province.
• Backcountry Camping: Camping is allowed on Running Rain Lake Trail, though Backcountry campsites can be found on the south shore of the lake. Check current regulations regarding permits and Leave No Trace principles for backcountry camping.
• Access Considerations: If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike there is no fee for the conservation pass, though vehicle parking at the trailhead requires the pass regardless of hiking plans.

Purchase your conservation pass online in advance, as cell service in the mountains is spotty and you might not be able to complete the transaction at the trailhead. The pass is linked to your license plate, so no physical display is required in your vehicle. For those exploring multiple camping opportunities in Kananaskis, the annual pass offers excellent value for frequent visitors.

Conclusion

Running Rain Lake represents one of Alberta’s most authentic backcountry adventures, combining challenging terrain, pristine wilderness, and excellent cutthroat trout fishing opportunities. While this trail demands proper preparation, waterproof gear, and realistic expectations about creek crossings and muddy conditions, the rewards include genuine solitude and spectacular alpine scenery that few other destinations can match. Whether you’re seeking that perfect cutthroat trout or simply want to experience true wilderness adventure, Running Rain Lake delivers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Kananaskis Country. Plan your 2025 adventure carefully, respect the challenging conditions, and prepare for one of Alberta’s most rewarding backcountry experiences!

Source Links

This article was researched using information from the following authoritative sources:

• AllTrails – Running Rain Lake Trail Reviews and Information
• Kananaskis Trails – Running Rain Lake Trail Details
• Alberta.ca – Kananaskis Conservation Pass Information
• AB Fishing – Running Rain Lake Fishing Regulations
• Alberta Fishing Report – Running Rain Lake Fishing Information

For the most current trail conditions and regulations, always check the official Alberta Parks website before your visit.

Running Rain Lake continues to be one of Alberta’s premier backcountry destinations for experienced hikers and anglers seeking authentic wilderness experiences.

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