The hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing trails in Canmore and the surrounding Kananaskis Country offer some very impressive views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. It doesn't matter what fitness level you find yourself in, there is a trail for everyone - novice to pro athlete.

We have drafted a list of the best trails and posted it on this page. They have been seperated into two categories:

Canmore trails (in and close to town), and
trails in the Bow Valley and Kananaskis Country.

You can even access trail maps.

Note: our trail list is far from the be all and end all of trail guides. The adventurous explorer will definitely discover that there are numerous more treking to be had in the area (for example, we don't even mention trails in Banff National Park which is minutes away). However, there are enough trails included in our list to keep you busy for several seasons. For details on hikes that are not in this list, please check with a local park official. You can also try Trails.com for two weeks for free. This free trial will give you access to 30,000 trails, trail guides and topographic maps.

Important Advisory

Canmore and especially Kananaskis trails, unlike those in Banff National Park, are less traveled (not because they are less attractive, they are just not as well known). They are not filled with lines of hikers and have a quieter character.

However this can pose a potential risk if ever some unfortunate incident occurred. You need to be fully prepared for weather changes and injuries. Make sure you register at the Canmore Visitor Information Centre or let someone (who isn't hiking with you) know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

We encourage you to please use your better judgement in all situations. We wish you a fun and safe hike!

General Trail Info

Interactions between humans and wildlife are something authorities like to keep to a minimum. Park managers need to keep a close eye on animals such as bears to reduce the risk of hikers, bikers and cross-country skiers running into them.

For these reasons, some trails are closed off for periods of time throughout the year. It might be wise to check out the Alberta Government web site for up to date trail reports or check with a local park official to see which trails are closed before heading out. Respecting these trail closures is important to wildlife conservation. Thank you.

• Register at a park information centre or let family know what your intentions are.
• Never hike alone - bring a friend.
• Dress for the occasion. If you gain a lot of elevation during the hike, you might end up in snowy weather - even during summer months.
• Watch for changing weather conditions and be prepared to retreat if a storm system is building up.
• Bring plenty of water (trailside water sources are NOT drinkable - unless boiled or filtered).
• Pack a lunch or bring snacks. While hiking, you will burn more calories than usual.
• Pick-up and pack out all your garbage.
• Bring a good map and compass (you can also use a GPS - Global Positioning Sensor - if you own one) if the trail is unfamiliar to you.
• Carry a first-aid kit and extra clothing (sweater, rain wear, gloves, etc).
• Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Wear a bear bell and make enough noise to announce your presence while still respecting other hikers.
• Avoid disrupting nature's natural beauty; don't pick plants, flowers or berries, don't break or cut down trees.
• Keep your dog on a leash.
• Use proper backcountry etiquette: if nature calls, do your thing no closer than 50 m from water sources; bury the solids and pack out the paper (you might want to bring a plastic bag).

Using the trail list

Trail Name: Click on the trail name to access more information on this trail as well as some trail maps.

Distance: total distance traveled (one way) from trail head to finish. If you see an L, this means the trail loops back to where you started.

Features:

• F = the trail is suitable for the whole family
• H = horseback riding is allowed
• B = bicycles are allowed (as well as in-line skates)
• C = cross-country (or alpine) skiingis allowed
• S = scenic views... bring your camera!

Level: difficulty rating of the trail; easy (E), moderate (M) or difficult (D).

Elevation: a positive sign (+) means you will gain altitude (climb) whereas a negative sign (-) means you will lose altitude (descend).

You might want to get geared up before you head out on the trail. For the best built hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing gear, visit Backcountry.com.