Image via Shutterstock Marina Poushkina
Rain or shine, sleet or snow, if the outdoors is calling – you answer! Calgary winters have a reputation for being long, but that doesn’t stop us from hitting the trails when the mood strikes. While some treks are more safely left to the warmer months, there are still plenty of winter hikes near Calgary to enjoy.
With a little preparation, some thermal layers, and spikes for those icy stretches, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy a good hike in the Alberta winter. Here are 10 trails near Calgary for a weekend trek.
This popular hike still delivers in the winter. The route is relatively easy, short enough to fit into an afternoon, and with frozen waterfalls to boot! If you plan to continue towards Upper Troll Falls and Marmot Falls, it’s recommended to have spikes and ice poles this time of the year.
Where: Troll Falls Trailhead Parking Lot, Stoney Trail, Kananaskis
This popular trail near Dead Man’s Flats is open year-round and provides a nice steady incline with a lovely lake to reward you at the end. Although we wouldn’t recommend swimming this time of the year.
Where: Rummel Lake Trailhead, AB-742, Kananaskis
Even in the wintertime, the Grotto Canyon Trail has something for everyone. The best part? This particular trail is great for kids and dogs, though – veteran hikers do recommend appropriate footwear.
Where: Grotto Canyon Trail Parking Lot, Bighorn No. 8
Located in the Bow Valley, Heart Creek Trail is a nice little adventure with a beautiful view of the mountains, towering trees, bridges, and a hidden waterfall. Dress warm and tread carefully.
Where: Off Range Rd 91A across from Lac Des Arcs
Here’s another trail that rewards you with a stunning alpine lake at the end. Conditions will likely be slippery, so it’s recommended to come prepared with ice grips and poles in the winter months.
Where: Grassi Lakes Trail, Canmore
Another favourite in Canmore that you can enjoy in the winter months. While Ha Ling Trail is an absolute beauty, this one is mostly uphill so you may want to come prepared with microspikes and flexible clothing.
Where: Goat Creek Parking Lot, AB-742, Canmore
Another popular destination for those in and around the area, Quarry Lake offers some incredible views and a ton of wildlife. It’s safe, there are a ton of opportunities to take photos and, of course, plenty of fresh air.
Where: Spray Lakes Rd, Canmore
This short uphill hike boasts excellent views of the northern and southern sections of Barrier Lake, and you could say the view is even prettier in the winter! It’s considered to be a moderately challenging route, so make sure you come prepared with cleats and poles for the snow.
Where: Barrier Lake Trail Parking Lot, Turner Valley
Johnston Canyon is one of Banff’s most popular trails in the summertime, but it still delivers in the winter. With several viewpoints of its icy waterfalls, we’d definitely recommend checking this one out. But be careful as it can get pretty icy.
Where: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9
Lucky for us this popular trail in Banff is open year-round! You can plan to complete this hike in about 2 hours, making it perfect for an afternoon or weekend morning. The views of Banff from the summit are easily worth it, just make sure you prepare for some slippery bits in the winter!
Where: 104-130 St Julien Rd, Banff
Keep in mind that a Conservation Pass is required to park at Provincial Parks and public use lands in the Kananaskis Country and Bow Valley region. So make sure you’ve dotted your i’s and crossed your t’s before your trip.
Now get out there!
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