Easy hikes and walks in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area
4.8
(64)
870
hikers
29
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area traverse diverse landscapes, encompassing alpine, subalpine, and montane regions. The area features the slopes of prominent mountains like Mount Allan and Mount Kidd, along with numerous creeks and ponds such as Evan-Thomas Creek and Ribbon Creek. Glacial and alluvial features, including morainal terraces and fanned rocks, shape the valley bottom. These easy hikes offer access to subalpine forests and valley trails.
Best easy hiking trails in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area
- The most…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.5
(21)
151
hikers
4.28km
01:14
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
8
hikers
4.91km
01:36
240m
240m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
9
hikers
6.75km
01:51
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area
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Tips from the Community
This is a large paved lot with restrooms as you drive in. You can leave via a few different trailheads, each of which have a kiosk with useful maps of the area.
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The trail is a wide, easy dirt and gravel path that runs up the mountain at a consistent shallow grade. In the winter the trail is only open to skiers.
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There is a spot to sit at the end of the Coal Mine Trail. South of here, the trail continues as singletrack instead of the wide dirt road from the trailhead. If you continue down the singletrack into the field, you can see rubble from the historic site of the old Kananaskis Coal Mine (1947-1952).
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The Ribbon Creek is a tributary of the Bow River, originating from the Ribbon Lake area. The creek flows west for 10 kilometers before joining the Bow River.
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This bridge over Ribbon Creek is one of a few through the area that will take you safely over the water. The cold waters of Ribbon Creek can flow quite strongly after heavy rain or with snowmelt.
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Above Troll Falls, you will find other waterfalls worth seeing in the cascades of Marmot Creek Gorge. They are called Marmot, Boulder and Upper Falls. Here the canyon is narrower and the rock is brittle. Stay on the path to avoid falling rocks.
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The Troll Falls look different every time. The water is constantly working on the rocks of the gorge and changing the riverbed of Marmot Creek. The waterfalls got their Scandinavian name from Don Gardener, who had just returned from Norway when he built the trail in 1970.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area?
Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area offers 8 easy hiking trails, perfect for those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. In total, there are 27 hiking routes across various difficulty levels.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area?
Easy hikes in the area showcase diverse landscapes, from subalpine forests to montane valley bottoms. You'll encounter prominent mountains like Mount Allan and Mount Kidd, various creeks such as Evan-Thomas Creek and Ribbon Creek, and peaceful ponds like Kovach Pond. The trails also reveal glacial and alluvial features that shaped the valley.
Are there any easy trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the area is known for its beautiful waterfalls. The Troll Falls trail is a popular easy option that leads to a stunning waterfall. You can also find other cascades like Upper and Boulder Falls (Marmot Creek) and Hidden Troll Fall, which might be accessible via easy sections of trails.
Which easy trails are suitable for families?
Many easy trails are family-friendly. The Troll Falls trail is particularly popular with families due to its relatively short distance and rewarding waterfall destination. The Ribbon Creek, Kovach and Terrace loop is another excellent choice, offering varied scenery without significant elevation gain.
Are there any easy circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are several easy circular routes. The Ribbon Creek, Kovach and Terrace loop is a great option, following Ribbon Creek and passing Kovach Pond. Another popular loop is the Terrace loop from Kananaskis Village, which explores the village surroundings.
What is the best time of year to go hiking on easy trails in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area?
The Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and full waterfalls, while fall brings vibrant larch colors. Even in winter, some easy trails are accessible for snowshoeing or winter hiking, offering a serene, snowy landscape.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area?
The easy trails in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the scenic beauty, well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of natural attractions like waterfalls.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails?
Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area is generally dog-friendly, but specific rules apply. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Always check for any specific trail restrictions before heading out with your pet.
Are there any easy trails that offer views of lakes or ponds?
Yes, some easy trails provide views of the area's water features. The Ribbon Creek, Kovach and Terrace loop passes by Kovach Pond, offering tranquil waterside scenery. Additionally, the Barrier Lake Trail provides easy access to views of Barrier Lake.
What are some points of interest or landmarks I can explore near the easy trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several points of interest. The Troll Falls are a major highlight. You can also experience the scenic Ribbon Creek, which carves a canyon with cascades and pools. Kananaskis Village, with its services and accommodations, is also easily accessible from many trailheads.
How long do easy hikes typically take in Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area?
The duration of easy hikes varies depending on the trail and your pace. For example, the Troll Falls trail typically takes about 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete, while the Terrace loop from Kananaskis Village usually takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Are there any easy trails that are accessible from Kananaskis Village?
Yes, Kananaskis Village serves as a convenient starting point for several easy trails. The Terrace loop from Kananaskis Village is a prime example, offering an easy walk directly from the village area.
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