Highwood Pass, Mountain pass in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada
Highwood Pass is a mountain crossing where Highway 40 reaches 2,206 meters in elevation while traversing Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. The road connects Kananaskis to the Longview area through steep terrain and alpine landscapes.
This pass route developed as a vital link between Kananaskis valleys and served cattle trade networks for decades. A major flood event struck the region in June 2013, significantly impacting local infrastructure and access.
Cattle ranching remains active near Highwood Pass, with numerous herds grazing on open ranges along the eastern approach from Highway 22 junction.
Access closes from December through mid-June each year to allow wildlife migration routes to remain undisturbed. During summer months the paved surface becomes accessible to cyclists and visitors seeking higher-altitude experiences.
It holds the title of Canada's highest paved mountain pass and sits at the tree line of the Rocky Mountains. This elevation places visitors right at the boundary where forests give way to open alpine terrain.
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