If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to sleep as the Native Americans once did, head to Sundance Lodges in Kananaskis, Alberta, and enjoy your own tipi. Situated along the Kananaskis River in Canada and surrounded by towering forests, Sundance’s tipis offer visitors the chance to experience camping in a whole new light. Not only does Sundance offer a distinctive sleeping accommodation, it also offers water and land activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural landscape.
Spend the night surrounded by nature in one of 12 hand-painted canvas tipis, each with a kerosene heater and lantern. Watch the stars as you tell ghost stories around the fire pit and enjoy a meal at your very own picnic table. Choose from nine large tipis with a double bed and two single beds, or three small tipis with two single beds. Bring your own bedding, as it is not included.
Hike along the banks of the Kananaskis River for spectacular views of Mount Allen and Mount Kidd. Look overhead to spot bald and golden eagles soar through the sky as they migrate in spring and fall. Soccer, volleyball, badminton, bocce ball and horseshoe equipment rentals are available for the competitive. Bring your bike and ride to the adjacent Beaver Ponds Day Use Area for a picnic beneath shade trees.
The area surrounding Sundance is filled with activities for the adventurous. Book a whitewater rafting trip with one of the area’s companies and raft down the Kananaskis and Bow Rivers, or build sand castles and swim in Barrier Lake in Canmore, about 10 miles from Kananaskis. Bring your kayak or rent one from a local outfitter to paddle past valleys and mountains along the Upper and Lower Lakes in Peter Lougheed Park in Kananaskis.
Chemical toilets are located on-site, and drinking water is available from three wells. Charge your electronics in the restroom at the Trading Post, as electricity is not available at the tipi sites. Pets are welcome in the tipis, provided they are leashed and well behaved. A small fee is charged per night for your furry companion. Stock up on firewood, groceries and basic supplies at the Trading Post. Reservations for tipi camping are required and may be made by contacting Sundance Lodges.
