Big Hill Springs Trail, Alberta |

CLOSED AUGUST 1st, 2020 FOR THE 2020 YEAR

Big Hill Springs hike is tucked away on the northwest side of Calgary. The log teepees, small waterfalls, and unique landscapes make hiking this trail a fun adventure for kids.

A perfect kid-friendly trail, Big Hill Springs happens to be the first hike my oldest daughter completed on her own two feet. While she hiked, I carried our 10-month-old in my ergo carrier. We enjoyed the little waterfalls, hiking up the hills, and seeing the beautiful views of the valley.

Insider Tip for Families

Pack a lunch and enjoy a post-hike snack on the picnic tables near the springs. This trail can get very busy on warm days.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.3 km (1.4 mi) loop
Elevation: 20 m (65 ft)
Hike Highlights: Springs, Valley Views, Teepees, Bridges, Waterfalls
Facilities: Outhouse, Picnic Tables
Gear: Carrier
TrailRider Rating: Difficult

Getting There

From Calgary turn right off the Trans Canada Highway AB-1A W at Lochend Road/AB-766 N. After 11 km turn left onto Big Hill Springs Road/AB-567 W. Drive for 3.2 km and turn left onto Range Rd 3A. There is a sign as you drive up to the parking lot.

Trailhead

From the parking lot walk towards the outhouses and cross the road. Big Hill Springs trail starts at the garbage cans across the road from the parking lot or on the trail to the left that goes up the hill.

Trail Experience

Our favourite way to hike Big Hill Springs loop is to follow the trail up the hill first and through the forest so the waterfalls and picnic tables are saved for the end. This also means the most challenging part of the hike is right at the beginning.

As you enter the trail into the trees you soon go up a series of switchbacks. The family-friendly trail levels out and the hike rolls at the top as it passes a series of little shelters made of logs. These are great places to stop. On wet days the trail is muddy and slippery.

After a short distance, the path opens to views of the valley with a bench perfect for breastfeeding. The kid-friendly trail then descends to the creek where you will walk down a set of stairs, cross a series of bridges, and pass a few small waterfalls before reaching the picnic tables. Stop for some lunch or continue straight to the parking lot.