Summ-it

Take a walk on the wild side—with the kids.

Whether you’re picnicking, day hiking or stay-cationing in the mountain parks, here are a few spectacular family friendly hikes that are close enough to the city to complete in an afternoon but far enough to get away from it all.

1982 Mount Everest Expedition Trail
Where: In Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, turn off Hwy 40 at the Kananaskis Lakes Road
Approximate length: 2 km loop, slight elevation gain, 1 hour return
You will love: This trail, dedicated to the first Canadians to summit Mt. Everest, offers interpretive information about the geology of the region and the Stoney people

Grassi Lakes Trail
Where: Drive past the Canmore Nordic Center and turn left into a parking lot, recreation area and trail head
Approximate length: almost 4 km return, moderate elevation gain, 1.5 – 2 hours return
You will love: tiny jewel-like lakes, ancient rock paintings and watching the rock climbers

Grotto Canyon
Where: Located approximately 14 km east of Canmore on Highway 1A
Approximate length: 5 km return, moderate elevation gain, 1.5 hours return
You will love: hoodoos and ancient rock paintings and the kids will love throwing rocks in the stream that follows the entire trail

Heart Creek Trail
Where: Located east of Canmore on the south side of the Trans Canada Highway (take the Lac des Arcs turn off)
Approximate length: 4 km with a slight elevation gain, 1.5 hours return
You will love: the seven log bridges over Heart Creek

Silverton Falls
Where: 28 km west of Banff toward Lake Louise at the intersection of Hwy 93
Approximate length: 2.5 km return, almost no elevation, 45 minutes return
You will love: close up views of a lovely waterfall

Before you go: visit Mountain Equipment Co-op’s worthwhile tips for hiking with kids to help you prepare for your hike, and be sure to check on any wildlife (read: bear) warnings if you are venturing into Banff National Park. For Kananaskis updates, check out the Government of Alberta Tourism Parks and Recreation site.

Remember:

1. A good guide book like Canadian Rockies Access Guide to get specific information about the trailhead location and what to expect on your hike.
2. Snacks, hats, water, sunscreen, a dry pair of socks and a camera.

Mountains are worth getting to know over a lifetime. Hiking with kids is the first step to a beautiful and long lasting relationship.

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