The best running trails in Heart Creek Provincial Recreation Area

Set right beside the Bow River with Door Jamb Mountain and Loder Peak rising sharply across the water, this riverside picnic area is one of the most scenic rest spots in the valley. A row of wooden tables sits on open grass just steps from the shoreline, offering an easy place to pause before or after exploring the nearby trails. With parking, restrooms, and a water fountain close by, it’s a convenient and peaceful stop to take in the mountain views, listen to the river, or enjoy a quiet lunch with the peaks in full sight.

This easy riverside path follows the shores of the Bow River, offering steady views of flowing water, cottonwoods, and wide gravel bars. As the trail opens toward the valley, you’ll catch a clear sightline to Mount Yamnuska, its dramatic east face rising sharply above the foothills. It’s a relaxed, scenic stretch ideal for walkers looking to enjoy the river corridor with one of Kananaskis’ most iconic peaks in the background.

Middle Lake is a calm, shallow lake surrounded by open forest and grassy meadows, offering a quiet contrast to the nearby river and mountain viewpoints. The loop trail around the shoreline is flat and easy, with several spots to step out onto the lakeside and enjoy reflections of the surrounding pines and foothills. It’s a peaceful place for birdwatching, photography, or a short break before continuing along the park’s interconnected trail network.

The Exshaw Mountain Trail begins just outside the town of Exshaw and quickly climbs through dense forest before opening onto rocky slopes with expanding valley views. The route is steep and often faint, requiring some route-finding as you gain elevation toward the summit ridge. Though demanding, the climb rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Bow Valley, Mount Lougheed, and the rugged peaks surrounding Canmore.

Exshaw Mountain rises above the Bow Valley near the town of Exshaw, Alberta, offering a steep but rewarding hike with sweeping views of the surrounding Rockies. The route climbs through forested slopes before breaking into open scree and grassy ridges that look out toward Mount Yamnuska, Grotto Mountain, and the Bow River below. It’s a challenging, lightly trafficked ascent best suited for experienced hikers comfortable with off-trail navigation and steep terrain.

Flowing through a narrow limestone canyon, Heart Creek is the centrepiece of Heart Creek Provincial Recreation Area. It was named after the nearby Heart Mountain, which features a distinctive heart-shaped layer of limestone visible near its summit.

A steep and demanding route leading to the summit of Heart Mountain, this trail climbs quickly from the Heart Creek area through forest and rocky slopes. The path transitions into a scramble near the upper ridge, where hands-on climbing is required in spots. It’s a popular but challenging hike — bring plenty of water, start early, and be prepared for loose rock and strong winds near the top.

Rising above Heart Creek Provincial Recreation Area, Heart Mountain (2,135 metres) offers a steep but rewarding climb with panoramic views of the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks. The route includes sections of hands-on scrambling near the summit and is best suited for experienced hikers with good footing. Clear weather brings stunning vistas across to Mount Yamnuska and the front ranges of the Rockies.