Top Hikes for Families in Canmore and Kananaskis

Lace up your boots and get ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Canmore and Kananaskis through these family friendly hiking trails in the Canadian Rockies! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast looking for a refreshing outdoor escape, these trails offer something for every family member. Each hike promises stunning views and a chance to connect with the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Distances and difficulties are approximate and subjective. Please do your own research when selecting a hike and learn how to be prepared for your adventure. 

Did you know that Canmore has 80 km (50 miles) of pathways? This extensive network provides countless opportunities to explore the beauty and charm of Canmore. Here are some of the best family-friendly hikes in Canmore:

#1 The Bow River Loop

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2.5 km (1.6 miles)

Enjoy the downtown vibes and take in the panoramic mountain vistas. The picturesque trail leads you along the Bow River and to the iconic Canmore Engine Bridge, offering stunning views perfect for family-friendly outings and great photo ops.

Viewers of HBO’s hit show ‘The Last of Us‘ might recognize this place!

#2 Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 3.9 km (2.4 miles)

Experience the charm of downtown Canmore while walking along the scenic Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk.

On this journey, you can enjoy Policeman’s Creek and take in iconic sights like the Canmore Big Head sculpture. This family-friendly trail offers stunning mountain views, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. Explore local boutiques and enjoy coffee at charming cafes along the way.

#3 Three Sisters Pathway

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)

This trail is great for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Start at Mineside Trailhead and enjoy a scenic journey along the Bow River to the Three Sisters Mountain Village.

The first 1.7 km is gravel, followed by smooth pavement for the next 5 km. With stunning river views and mountain backdrops, it’s a refreshing way to get outside and enjoy nature.

After enjoying a family stroll around Canmore, why not explore some classic hikes a little further out? Canmore has plenty to offer for the whole family, with easily accessible trails that can be reached by bus, car, or shuttle.

#1 Quarry Lake

Difficulty: Easy and Moderate

Distance: 4.0 km (2.5 miles)

Elevation Gain: 100 metres (328 feet)

Discover the crystal-clear waters of Quarry Lake, surrounded by serene landscapes. This spot is perfect for picnics and offers trails that are great for families.

If you want to make a day of it, bring a standup paddleboard, kayak, or floatie – Quarry Lake is one of the many amazing places to paddle in Canmore and Kananaskis. Read up on water safety and sustainability before you go!

#2 Grassi Lakes

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4.0 km (2.5 miles)

Elevation Gain: 250 metres (820 feet)

Hike through lush forests to reach the turquoise lakes of Grassi Lakes. This family-friendly trail offers breathtaking views of the Bow Valley along the way.

You have two trail options: one is steeper, and the other is suitable for all family members. We recommend taking the easier trail up and then looping back on the other trail, but you can absolutely do out and back on the same one.

Grassi Lakes is one of the most beautiful and popular hikes around Canmore. Due to its popularity, the parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Roam Transit’s Route 12 offers a convenient and sustainable option, running from downtown Canmore to Quarry Lake, the Canmore Nordic Centre, and Grassi Lakes. This is the best option for a hassle-free visit. Please check the Roam Bus website for the schedule. This line operates during the summer on weekends. To learn more, check out our page on how to travel sustainably in and around Canmore.

#3 Canmore Nordic Centre

Difficulty: Varies (Multiple trails)

Explore the legacy of the 1988 Olympics at the Canmore Nordic Centre. With varied terrain, it’s a great spot for hiking and a fun experience for the whole family.

While you’re here, why not try another activity such as cross-country skiing in the winter or orienteering? The Nordic Centre offers excellent trails and facilities for year-round activities, so there’s something for every family member to do.

#4 Grotto Canyon

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4.0 km (2.5 miles)

Elevation Gain: 100 metres (328 feet)

Walk through unique canyon formations and see ancient pictographs in Grotto Canyon. In winter, the canyon transforms into a spectacular ice walk.

Canadian Rockies Experience offers an exclusive journey through this stunning canyon. Your guide will pick you up in town, provide all the necessary gear, and offer expert guidance for an unforgettable family adventure.

Alternatively, explore the rich history of the canyon with guided experiences from Mahikan Trails or Buffalo Stone Woman. These Indigenous-led tours offer fascinating insights into ancient pictographs and the cultural significance of the area, adding depth and meaning to your visit.

#5 Ha Ling Peak

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 7.2 km (4.5 miles)

Elevation Gain: 800 metres (2,624 feet)

Ha Ling is a challenging hike that rewards you with spectacular summit views. The ascent is tough but worth it for the iconic Canmore landmark experience.

For those seeking an even greater challenge and to burn some extra energy, you can extend your hike to include Miner’s Peak.

Ha Ling Peak is ideal for active kids, especially teenagers seeking an adventure. However, the elevation gain might be too challenging for young children. Consider an easier hike or stopping at the first viewpoint (known as “the Saddle”) for a more manageable adventure.

Kananaskis Country, often referred to as K-Country, offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. From stunning waterfalls to beautiful valleys, there’s something for every family member. Here are some of the top hikes for families in Kananaskis.

#1 Black Shale Suspension Bridge

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1.0 km (0.6 miles)

Elevation Gain: 58 metres (190 feet)

The highlight of this easy, family-friendly hike is the Black Shale Suspension Bridge, a favourite among kids and adults alike. It overlooks emerald green forests and rugged mountain peaks, providing a thrilling and scenic experience for the whole family.

For those looking for more adventure, you can extend your hike via the Black Prince trail (6.1 km / 3.8 miles).

Looking for a guided experience? Our partner, Kananaskis Outfitters, will take your family through this beautiful trail and suspension bridge ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.

#2 Troll Falls

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4.7 km (2.9 miles)

Elevation Gain: 227 metres (745 feet)

This family-friendly trail features beautiful waterfalls that are accessible year-round. Located near the Nakiska ski resort, the trail can be enjoyed on foot, by snowshoe, or even by bike or fat bike.

#3 Arethusa Cirque

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4.5 km (2.8 miles)

Elevation Gain: 324 metres (1,063 feet)

This moderate loop trail offers stunning mountain views and diverse alpine flora. Young and old will love exploring the vibrant larch trees during fall when Arethusa Cirque becomes one of the best autumn colour hikes in Kananaskis.

#4 Upper Kananaskis Lake

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 15.6 km (9.7 miles)

Elevation Gain: 420 metres (1378 feet)

Enjoy a scenic hike around Upper Kananaskis Lake, with its picturesque water scenery and tranquil forest surroundings.

This popular lake offers not only stunning views but also opportunities for paddling, making it an ideal destination for a full day of family fun.

#5 Prairie View Trail

Difficulty: Difficult

Distance: 10.8 km (6.7 miles)

Elevation Gain: 509 metres (1,670 feet)

This trail offers breathtaking views of Barrier Lake and is suitable for families looking for a more challenging route. For adventurous families with older children or teenagers, you can continue to Yates Mountain, which stands at 1,981 metres (6,499 feet). Be aware, this trail is more strenuous, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views.

Looking for a guided hiking experience in Canmore?

Canmore and Kananaskis have a variety of guided hiking experiences suited for all levels of hiking and provide a more meaningful and enriching adventure. Check out our recommended guides here.

Preparation and Safety Tips

Be prepared for a safe and enjoyable hike in the Canadian Rockies by checking the weather and trail conditions before you go. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, dressing in layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks to stay hydrated and fueled. Be mindful that you’re in bear country; carry bear spray and know how to use it. Inform someone of your hiking plans, and carry a map or GPS device for navigation.

A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to park at provincial parks and public use lands in Kananaskis Country. Daily and yearly passes are available for purchase online.

Canmore is worth visiting for an unforgettable getaway

Create lasting memories with your family in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Canmore and Kananaskis offer some of the best family-friendly hiking experiences, making them worth visiting for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re exploring the charming pathways of downtown Canmore or the rugged beauty of the Kananaskis region, there’s something for every family member.

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In Canmore and Kananaskis, our natural ecosystems and stunning landscapes are the heart and soul of our local mountain culture. Before your visit, we encourage you to sign the Pledge to the Peaks, committing to mindful exploration to ensure the safety of all inhabitants of the region and preserve the beauty of our unfiltered wilderness for generations to come.