Calgary is only a short drive from the Rocky Mountains which house some of the best hiking in Canada. Its no wonder that hiking is such a popular summer activity for many Albertan’s. Here are 6 easy hikes near Calgary, AB that are perfect for families or anyone looking to get into the outdoors on the weekends or evenings!
Grotto Canyon Trail
The trail head for Grotto Canyon Trail is along the 1A ( Bow Valley Trail), just east of Exshaw. This is one of the closest, easy hikes near Calgary making it the perfect afternoon or after work hike! This 4.0 km out and back trail has 225 meters of elevation gain and a beautiful waterfall at the end! This trail is also open all year round and during winter, the water freezes creating a frozen waterfall!
Heart Creek Trail
The Heart Creek Trail head is located directly across from Lac Des Arc Campground which is only a 1 hour drive from Calgary. This is a 4.7 km out and back trail with 308 meters of elevation gain. The trail follows heart creek, eventually leading to a small waterfall. Have a bite to eat here and admire the views before heading back.
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is easily one of the most popular day hikes in Banff National Park. The paved trail is fairly mild making it perfect for families and hikers of almost any fitness level. Open year round; this hike boasts stunning views of the turquoise creek and multiple waterfalls along the way. To reach the upper falls, you will hike 2.6 km each way with an elevation gain of 120 meters. If you’re feeling up to it, hike another 3 kilometres each way to the ink pots!
Related Post: Johnston Canyon & The Ink Pots
Barrier Lake Trail
Barrier Lake Trail begins at the Prairie View Trail Parking lot which is located just off Highway 40. The trail head is in Kananaskis country and is only an hour and 10 min from Calgary. This out and back trail is 7.7 km long and has 233 meters of elevation gain.
Upper Grassi Lakes Trail
Grassi Lakes is a popular hike just outside of Canmore, near the Nordic Centre, along the Highway 742. This Loop Trail is 4.3 km with 233 meters of elevation gain. The ponds at the end of the trail are beautifully coloured and the drive to the trailhead offers some great views!
Tunnel Mountain Trail
Tunnel Mountain Trailhead is located just outside of the Town of Banff along Tunnel Mountain Road. It’s the perfect hike for families or beginners. The trail is 4.5 km out and back with 266 meters of elevation gain.
We hope this helps in choosing some easy hikes near Calgary this summer! Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comment below with some of your favourites. Happy hiking!
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