Scenic Views · Alberta
Bighorn Lookout
A grassy lookout above the Sheep River gorge in Sheep River Provincial Park, Kananaskis Country, a couple of minutes' walk from the Big Horn day-use lot. Expect wind, steep drop-offs and no cell service.
What visitors say
Bighorn Lookout sits along Sheep River Road west of Turner Valley, inside Sheep River Provincial Park in Kananaskis Country. From the lookout, open grassy slopes fall away into the gorge, with the foothills and front ranges beyond. Reviewers describe wide, uncrowded views and a calm that feels a long way from Calgary, though it's only about an hour's drive.
Getting to the view takes almost no effort. It's roughly a two-minute walk from the Big Horn day-use parking, and the short Bighorn interpretive trail loops through the grass for anyone who wants a little more. There are picnic tables and pit toilets at the day-use area; one visitor found the toilets better than at many other stops but wished for a way to wash hands.
Wildlife is part of the draw. Several visitors have watched bighorn sheep grazing on the slopes, and deer turn up too. It's a good choice for families with a picnic, photographers and anyone who wants mountain scenery without a hike.
The cliffs are close to the path, so keep a hand on young children and leash dogs. It can be very windy, there are no shops nearby, and there's no cell coverage, so buy your Kananaskis Conservation Pass online before you leave and bring food and water.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 240 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.