Ready to trade the hustle and bustle of Calgary for the tranquility of nature? Lace up your boots and join us on a journey to uncover the easy hikes just a short drive away from the city.
Top Easy Hikes near Calgary, Alberta
Planning easy hikes near Calgary, Alberta, is a fantastic way to get active and explore the stunning Canadian Rocky Mountains with your family. With some careful planning and preparation, you can enjoy the beauty of the mountains while bonding with your kiddo. But hey, even if the outing doesn't go exactly as planned, the mere act of venturing out is far more rewarding than not trying at all (ryight?!!).
1. Troll Falls
Troll Falls is the perfect inaugural family hike near Calgary! Located in Kananaskis Country, Troll Falls has an enchanting series of waterfalls and forested surroundings. The trail is relatively flat and perfect for introducing young ones to hiking. It's one of the easiest hikes near Calgary and can be hiked year-round.
- DISTANCE: Troll Falls hike spans approximately 3.4km (2.1 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 154m (505 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as an easy hike, it typically takes 1.5 - 2 hours for the return journey. It's short but has a few steep sections to access 2 of the 3 higher waterfalls.
- TRAILHEAD: The trailhead to Troll Falls begins approximately 20 minutes drive down south on highway 40 (Highwood Pass) in Kananaskis Country. The parking lot is on the right-hand side along Mt. Allan drive (the Nakiska turnoff). You can also access this trail via Nakiska (past bronze chair).
2. Heart Creek Bunker
Heart Creek Bunker, also known as the Heart Creek Cave, is a unique, all-season destination located near Lac des Arcs, Alberta. This is a great family hike near Calgary to explore with your little adventurers.
- DISTANCE: Heart Creek Cave hike spans approximately 4km (2.49 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 212m (696 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as an easy hike, it typically takes 1.5 - 2 hours for the return journey. It's shorter with gradual elevation gain.
- TRAILHEAD: The trailhead to Heart Creek is off the Trans Canada Highway, across from Lacs des Arcs overpass. The trailhead is to the right of the parking lot and the trail runs parallel to the highway.
3. Tunnel Mountain
Located in Banff, Tunnel Mountain is a great way to spend a beautiful day with your family. The views from the summit are lovely and the hike is easy enough for families with young children.
- DISTANCE: The hike spans approximately 4.3km (2.7 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 268m (879 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as an easy to moderate hike, it typically takes 1.5 - 2 hours for the return journey. It's shorter but has steady elevation via switchbacks.
- TRAILHEAD: The trailhead to Tunnel Mountain begins in Banff near the Banff Centre for Performing Arts. The parking lot is the Barrier Lake lot on the left-hand side on St. Julien Road but is a small lot. It's best if you pay for parking downtown and walk up from there.
The trail is well-maintained and consists of switchbacks for the majority of the route. The beginning section is the steepest! There's not a lot to see along the way, but once you reach the backside, you'll see this beautiful, classic Banff view of the majestic, Mount Rundle. When you reach the 'summit', you'll be rewarded with views of the Town of Banff, including Cascade Gardens. Tunnel Mountain summit is a great spot to have a picnic before heading back down the same way.
4. Grassi Lakes
Located just outside of Canmore, Grassi Lakes is a beautiful, easy hike near Calgary that offers stunning views of unique, turquoise ponds. The trail winds its way through the forest before reaching the first lake, Lower Grassi Lake. The trail then continues on to Upper Grassi Lake, which sits at the base of Ha Ling Peak.
- DISTANCE: The hike spans approximately 3.4km (2.1 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 178m (584 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as an easy hike, it typically takes 1.5 - 2 hour for the return journey. It's shorter with some steeper sections. There is an easier and a more difficult route so choose accordingly.
- TRAILHEAD: The trailhead to Grassi Lakes is off Spray Lakes Road, a few minutes past the Canmore Nordic Centre. The trail to the lakes begins at the Grassi Lakes parking lot, located on the left-hand side.
The trail is well-maintained, but it can be steep in some sections, which may be challenging while carrying your baby. There is an easier (first-timers, baby-friendly) road way option but you will miss the beautiful waterfall and cool, rock staircase. As this can be a heavily trafficked hike, it is best to complete it clockwise, coming down the roadway in order to give right-a-way to those hiking up to the lakes.
5. Prairie View Lookout
Prairie View Lookout in Kananaskis Country is a stunning and moderately challenging hike that I've enjoyed several times throughout the year. It provides breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and is suitable for families with young children, making it a fantastic option for a full day adventure.
- DISTANCE: The hike spans approximately 10.8km (6.7 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 568m (1864 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as a moderate hike, it typically takes 3 - 4 hours for the return journey. It's long but has gradual elevation with a few steep sections close to the top.
- TRAILHEAD: The trailhead to Prairie View lookout begins approximately 10 minutes drive down south on highway 40 (Highwood Pass) in Kananaskis Country. The parking lot is the Barrier Lake lot on the right-hand side (a few kms past the Visitor Centre).
The path begins along Barrier Lake and remains flat for the first kilometer. As you approach the treeline, the trail gradually gains elevation but levels out again on a wide path. When you hit the switchbacks, there will be some slight uphill sections. The last push to is the hardest. You can always stop at the clearing where you will have incredible views of Barrier Lake.
The final stretch to the lookout involves the most significant elevation gain. Once you reach the top of Prairie View lookout, you'll be rewarded with picturesque views of the lake and mountains. If you are feeling up for a bigger challenge, you can continue onwards and peak Yates Mountain!
6. Ptarmigan Cirque
Ptarmigan Cirque is the perfect hike for the family. We first hiked Ptarmigan Cirque in September when Sylas was 14 months old, and it was an amazing experience! But it was super BUSY. Be strategic with your timing on this hike. This is one that we do at least once a year.
- DISTANCE: The hike spans approximately 4.5km (2.8 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 375 m (1230 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as an easy to moderate hike, it typically takes 1.5 - 2 hours for the return journey. It's shorter but has a few steep sections.
- TRAILHEAD: The trailhead to Ptarmigan Cirque begins approximately 1 hour drive down south on highway 40 in Kananaskis Country (on the left-hand side of the highway). You can park in the Highwood Meadows Parking lot on the right and backtrack to the trailhead via Highwood Meadows trail, or park along the highway.
Bonus points if you do Ptarmigan Cirque during 'larch march' season (typically mid to late September). This is the time of year when the larch trees, which are found in the high elevations of the Rocky Mountains, turn a stunning golden colour before shedding their needles for the winter.
It is important to be sure of the location and trail details before leaving the city as you will not have cell service this far down highway 40. Be aware that there are seasonal closures and can only be accessed June - September.
7. Arethusa Cirque
I can't say enough positive things about this hike in the beautiful Kananaskis Country! Arethusa Cirque is one of the first hikes we did together when our baby was 4 weeks old - a year later, we did it again, starting our little family’s first tradition! We didn't want to do anything too strenuous considering his age and my ongoing recovery and felt that the length and elevation would be a good first hike for us all.
- DISTANCE: The hike spans approximately 3.4km (2.1 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 263m (863 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as an easy to moderate hike, it typically takes 1 - 2 hours for the return journey. It's short but has a few steep sections.
- TRAILHEAD: The trailhead to Arethusa Cirque begins approximately 1 hour drive down south on highway 40 (Highwood Pass) in Kananaskis Country. The parking lot is on the left-hand side and is a dirt lot with ruts and bumps. The trailhead is on the far left of the lot.
This trail is a wonderful option for a few reasons: it can be done as a loop and there are options to make it easier. Do this loop clockwise! From here, the trail winds through a dense forest before opening up to a beautiful amphitheatre. The final stretch of the trail before opening up is a steep climb, but the effort is well worth it when you reach the top and are rewarded with stunning views of the golden larch trees and the surrounding mountains.
It is important to be sure of the location and trail details before leaving the city as you will not have cell service this far down highway 40. Be aware that there are seasonal closures and can only be accessed June - September.
8. Green Monster Hike
The Green Monster hike is great for kids and most dogs, covering 11-14kms. It's mostly straightforward, but there's a short, technical chain and rope section. Be cautious with kids and dogs, and evaluate their ability to navigate that stretch. And the hike is a good workout, especially when you're carrying a 30 pound wiggly, backpack!
- DISTANCE: The hike spans approximately 11-14 km (6.8 - 8.7 miles) round trip, with an elevation gain of 350 m (1148 feet).
- DIFFICULTY: Rated as a moderate hike, it typically takes 4 to 4.5 hours for the return journey. Covering a distance of approximately 14kms with an elevation gain of 350meters, this hike be done as a loop, instead of an in and out trek. It's a few kms longer but the loop option offers a super gradual incline on the way in. You can choose to take your time and enjoy the scenery, or turn up the pace and use it as a trail run.
- TRAILHEAD: Evan-Thomas day use area, around 25 km south on Highway 40 (Stoney Nakota Casino exit), a few kms past Kananaskis Village and Nakiska, our favourite family-friendly ski hill.
Responsible Adventuring
Aren't we lucky to be able to access such amazing hikes near Calgary, Alberta! That said, we must always be mindful of adventuring our beautiful backyard, responsibly.
To ensure that your visit is sustainable, consider these tips:
- Plan: Prepare in advance to minimize the impacts of your visit. Check current weather and trail conditions at location where you're travelling.
- Keep it natural: Leave what you find, and take what you bring. Don't damage plants - observe our beautiful landscape without altering it.
- Take your trash with you: Always carry a reusable bag to dispose of your litter and recyclables properly. Don't throw food waste away - it attracts wildlife.
- Respect the wildlife: The Canadian Rockies are home to a diverse range of wildlife, from bears to elk to bighorn sheep. But always remember to keep a respectful distance and never feed them, as this can disrupt their natural behaviours and make them a danger to humans and vehicles.
- Carpool: Whenever possible, carpool with your fellow adventurers to offset carbon emissions and parking spaces at trailheads.
- Use public transportation: Use eco-friendly modes of transportation such as buses, which are readily available in the Rockies.
- Support local: Engage in activities such as sports equipment rental, local restaurants and markets, and cultural events such as museums and shows.
- Choose sustainable accommodation: Look for eco-friendly hotels, lodges, or campsites that promote sustainable tourism practices.
- Communication: Often overlooked as a sustainable measure, communicating with someone on your travel plans is key as it may minimize the use of emergency services, or aid for a quicker response in emergency settings.
- Always be prepared: The Canadian Rockies are rugged and isolated. Carry enough food, water, clothing, maps, and other essentials such as bear spray and a first aid kit.
