Carnarvon Lake is located on BC/Alberta border in Kananaskis country. Hiking is required to get to this beautiful lake. It was stocked with Cutthroat Trout a few years ago.
Directions to Carnarvon Lake
To get to Carnarvon Lake you will need to park at Cat Creek day-use area located along Highway 40 in Kananaskis Country and hike to the lake from there. Please keep in mind that the Highway 40 section around Cat Creek is closed from December to the middle of June.
One way hike is 10 km and there is a river crossing. The last 200 m before the lake are pretty challenging and you will need to use chains to get to the lake. There is a lot of bear activity along the trail so travel in groups if possible.
Some people bike half of the way because the road is pretty flat and then hike the rest to save time.
Carnarvon Lake Fishing Tips
Random camping is quite popular around Carnarvon Lake and if you are planning to fish it might be a good idea to stay overnight because the hike to the lake is very long.
Carnarvon Lake is extremely windy on the east side but if you walk to the opposite side of the lake, the wind is usually not as bad. That’s where most people set up their tents.
The most common fish in Carnarvon Lake is the Cutthroat Trout. This is a cold lake, and there is no much food for the fish to feed on and it is one of the reasons why it doesn’t grow big.
Carnarvon Lake Fishing Regulations
- 2 Trout
Bait except for bait fish is allowed
Open all year
Check Alberta Fishing Regulations for up-to date rules.
Carnarvon Lake Fish Stocking Report 2021
| Fish | Size (cm) | Number Stocked | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cutthroat Trout | 4.9 | 1200 | September 9 |