MOUNTAIN LODGE SPOTLIGHT:
MOUNT ENGADINE LODGE
By Crowfoot Media
At the heart of mountain culture in the Canadian Rockies is the tradition of mountain lodging that beckons travellers to disconnect, unwind and enjoy a warm drink by the fire. Our Mountain Lodge Spotlight series features just this – a long-standing history that continues to this day. Whether in the backcountry or at the roadside, these mountain lodges feature stunning locations and good old mountain hospitality.
Mount Engadine Lodge. Photo by Paul Zizka Photography.
Location, location, location. Mount Engadine Lodge is all about its prime location, nestled at the base of Mt. Engadine, on the edges of a meadow that stretches towards the striking peaks of Mts. Birdwood and Commonwealth. Located just 1 hour from Canmore down the Smith Dorrien Trail, this mountain getaway offers seclusion amidst beautiful scenery, with all the modern amenities that make a stay comfortable. Your room rate includes all meals, prepared with regionally sourced ingredients by Chef Gerard Garnier. With no cell reception available, you get the chance to disconnect and unwind even though the lodge is located by the roadside. A fantastic venue for a getaway with friends or a loved one, Mount Engadine Lodge will also cater perfectly to weddings, reunions, and other big group gatherings.
ACCESS
Year-Round: Driving – located at the Mount Shark Road turn-off on the Smith Dorrien Trail, Kananaskis Country (via Spray Lakes Road or Highway 40). See Location info here. |
Our team relaxing by the fire. Photo by Tony Larosa.
ACTIVITIES
SUMMER/FALL:
- hiking and scrambling throughout Kananaskis Country (the larch hikes in this region are awesome!)
- mountain biking (Goat Creek, Canmore Nordic Centre Mountain Biking Trails, Mt Shark, Baldy Falls and more)
- climbing
- paddling
- photography
WINTER/SPRING:
- cross-country skiing (Mt. Shark, Chester Lake, Rummel Lake, Canmore Nordic Centre)
- snowshoeing
- ski touring (Burstall Pass North and South, French-Haig-Robertson Traverse, Black Prince, Hero Nob Loop and more)
- kite-skiing/boarding on Spray Lakes
- dogsledding (try Howling Dog Tours)
- photography
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A room at Mount Engadine Lodge. Photo by Tony Larosa.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Feels like a true getaway in a unique location (there are no other mountain lodges like this in Kananaskis!)
- Located a reasonable distance from Calgary, Canmore and Banff.
- Local products featured throughout the operation: Park Distillery spirits, Grizzly Paw beer and sodas, Rocky Mountain Soap products, Banff Tea Co. teas.
- The menu is fantastic and afternoon tea is a nice touch after some fresh-air activities. They were also very accommodating to allergies. Food was sensitively prepared without compromising on quality for guests with dietary needs.
- A superb mountain library full if guidebooks, history books, mountain photography and magazines.
- Wonderful views from the living room and dining areas and patio.
- Lots of cozy blankets, throw pillows, and space to lounge. Also, there is more than one fireplace so that different groups have various areas to socialize.
- No cell reception. We consider this a perk these days!
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Fantastic food by Chef Gerard Garnier. Photo by Tony Larosa.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
- Mt. Engadine mixes more modern amenities with a remote location. If you’re looking for a rustic mountain lodge feel, you won’t find that here. Still, with fireplaces, comfy couches, Hudson Bay blankets, and hot tea brewing all day, you can make yourself at home.
- Meals are eaten communally. If you’re out for a romantic experience, snag your time together out on a mountain hike or reading by the fire. Otherwise, enjoy the conversation with other travellers and locals!
- As with any hotel/accommodation, noise through walls can be an issue. Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
- The WIFI is touch and go. If you’re on a work retreat, you may want to download some documents in advance.
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Last rays of sun at Engadine Lodge. Photo by Tera Swanson.
Old fashioned decor by the fire. Photo by Tony Larosa.
Today’s menu. Photo by Tony Larosa.
Ring bell for service. Photo by Tony Larosa.
Lounging by the fire. Photo by Tera Swanson.
Piano in the lounge area. Photo by Tony Larosa.
Teas come courtesy of the Banff Tea Company. Photo by Tony Larosa.
Bagged lunches are ordered at breakfast and ready to take for the day’s adventures. Photo by Tony Larosa.
Grab some good reading and relax under a blanket. Photo by Tony Larosa.
The views and opinions expressed in the articles on CrowfootMedia.com are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the editor, the editorial team or the publishers.
