The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Grasslands National Park

Grasslands National Park offers a selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 4 routes, with 2 designated as easy and 2 as moderate, providing options for various family preferences and fitness levels.

The park's family-friendly trails traverse diverse landscapes, from the rolling mixed-grass prairie to the dramatic coulees and badlands. You'll encounter open plains, gentle slopes, and sometimes rugged, eroded formations, especially in areas like the Killdeer Badlands. Trails like the Broken Hills Trail loop offer a good mix of prairie and valley views.

Yes, for families with young children or those looking for a shorter outing, the park has excellent options. The Two Trees Trail is an easy 3.9 km route, and the Valley of 1000 Devils Trail is another easy option at 3.5 km, offering unique geological sights.

Many trails offer glimpses of the park's unique natural features. In the West Block, you might see the Frenchman River Valley. The East Block is home to the striking Killdeer Badlands and the Valley of 1000 Devils, known for its layered buttes. Keep an eye out for the vast mixed-grass prairie and its native wildflowers. The Broken Hills Trail also offers scenic views.

Absolutely! Grasslands National Park is renowned for its wildlife. On family hikes, you have a good chance of spotting plains bison, pronghorns, mule deer, and various bird species. The park is also home to Canada's only black-tailed prairie dog colonies, which are a delight for children to observe. Remember to keep a respectful distance from all wildlife.

Yes, several family-friendly trails are designed as loops, making for a convenient hiking experience. The Broken Hills Trail loop is a moderate 11.2 km option, and the Hiking loop from Timbergulch is a longer moderate loop at 15 km, both providing a circular journey through the park's landscapes.

The best time for family hiking in Grasslands National Park is typically from late spring to early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, wildflowers are in bloom, and wildlife is active. Summers can be hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for hiking. Fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful prairie colours.

Given the open prairie environment, it's essential to be prepared. Wear comfortable, layered clothing, as temperatures can change quickly. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent. Binoculars are great for wildlife viewing, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, Grasslands National Park provides designated parking areas at or near the trailheads for most established routes. Specific parking information for each trail can often be found on park maps or interpretive signs at the visitor centers. It's always a good idea to check park resources for the most current access details.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Grasslands National Park, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's unique prairie landscapes, the sense of solitude, and the excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially the prairie dog colonies. The well-maintained trails and clear signage also contribute to a positive family hiking experience.

While many trails involve natural, uneven terrain, some sections of the park's scenic drives, like the Ecotour Scenic Drive in the West Block or the Badlands Parkway in the East Block, offer paved or well-graded surfaces that might be suitable for strollers, especially at viewpoints or short interpretive loops. For dedicated hiking trails, it's best to check with the park visitor center for current conditions and accessibility, as most trails are unpaved.