As I step onto the winding road toward Kananaskis Country, the jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies frame what will soon become the backdrop for global diplomacy. The Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, nestled in Alberta’s pristine wilderness, is preparing to host world leaders for the 2025 G7 Summit.
“We’re planning to showcase the absolute best of Alberta,” says James Pomeroy, general manager of the lodge, as we settle into plush chairs overlooking the valley. “These leaders will experience true Rocky Mountain hospitality with an Alberta twist.”
This marks the second time Kananaskis will host this prestigious gathering. In 2002, then-Prime Minister Jean Chrétien welcomed leaders here just months after the September 11 attacks, when security concerns were paramount. More than two decades later, the region is ready for its return to the global stage.
The economic impact for Alberta could be substantial. When the 2018 G7 was held in Quebec’s Charlevoix region, it generated approximately $300 million in economic benefits, according to federal government reports. Calgary’s tourism sector anticipates similar gains.
“This is our chance to highlight not just Kananaskis, but everything the Calgary region offers,” explains Mary Moran, CEO of Tourism Calgary. “From our western heritage to our innovation economy, we want these international visitors to see Alberta beyond the stereotypes.”
Behind the scenes, the lodge is undergoing subtle but significant upgrades. Staff numbers will double during the event, with many employees receiving specialized diplomatic protocol training. Local suppliers are already being contracted to provide everything from Alberta beef to indigenous art installations.
Security preparations represent another massive undertaking. The RCMP is coordinating with international agencies to ensure leader safety while minimizing disruption to the surrounding communities and wildlife. Road closures and restricted zones will be established, though officials are working to keep these as limited as possible.
“We learned valuable lessons from 2002,” notes retired RCMP Superintendent Cal Johnston, who served during the previous Kananaskis summit. “The geography here actually works in our favor from a security perspective. There are limited access points, which simplifies monitoring.”
Environmental considerations remain front of mind. The Kananaskis region is home to grizzly bears, elk, and numerous protected species. Park officials are developing plans to minimize wildlife disturbances during the summit.
“We’re implementing the strictest environmental protocols,” Pomeroy emphasizes. “Our goal is zero permanent impact on this beautiful ecosystem.”
Local businesses throughout Canmore and Banff are already preparing specialized offerings for the expected influx of international media and support staff. Custom menu items, locally crafted souvenirs, and specialized tour packages are being developed.
Sarah McPherson, a third-generation Canmore resident and shop owner, sees opportunity beyond the immediate economic boost. “This puts us back on the world map. The coverage will benefit our region for years to come.”
The Alberta government estimates direct spending from the summit will exceed $225 million, with long-term tourism benefits potentially reaching into the billions. Premier Danielle Smith has expressed her enthusiasm for showcasing Alberta’s energy transition efforts alongside its traditional resource strengths.
For Pomeroy and his team, the summit represents both professional challenge and personal pride. “We’re not just hosting world leaders,” he says, gesturing toward the panoramic mountain views from the lodge’s main terrace. “We’re sharing a piece of what makes Alberta special.”
As preparations continue, one thing remains clear: when the world’s most powerful leaders gather beneath the shadow of the Canadian Rockies next year, they’ll experience an Alberta that balances rugged wilderness with sophisticated hospitality. The Kananaskis Mountain Lodge stands ready to make that introduction, one summit at a time.
