The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Rocky View County
4.6
(86)
1,569
hikers
100
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Rocky View County offer a diverse landscape characterized by the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, extensive river valleys, and fescue grasslands. The region features significant river systems like the Bow River and Elbow River, which create scenic paths. Hikers can experience varied terrain, from open prairies to forested areas, with notable geological formations such as the tufa formations in Big Hill Springs Provincial Park.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Rocky View County
- The most…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
12
hikers
4.55km
01:10
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
5.27km
01:22
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
5.50km
01:24
20m
20m
Hike the easy 3.4-mile Griffith Woods Park loop in Calgary, featuring diverse forests, the Elbow River, and abundant wildlife.
1
hikers
3.00km
00:46
10m
10m
Enjoy an easy 1.9-mile hike around Chestermere Lake, passing Crystal Park and Dog Park Beach, perfect for a quick outdoor escape.
1
hikers
6.17km
01:36
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Rocky View County
Tips from the Community
The reservoir was constructed in 1932 to secure clean drinking water for Calgary and manage flood control. The Glenmore Pathway encircles the entire reservoir is accessible walking paths.
1
0
There is a little bench by the trail where you can sit and enjoy the views over the mouth of the Elbow River as it meanders into the reservoir.
0
0
There is an upper and lower pathway shared between hikers and cyclists. From here on the lower path you can take some unmarked side trails down to the water's edge and explore the beach, which is walkable for about a mile and a half.
0
0
Set on the slopes of Signal Hill, Battalion Park is home to one of Calgary’s most distinctive viewpoints. The hillside is marked by four large stone numerals, made up of 16,000 whitewashed rocks arranged to honour the battalions that trained here during the First World War. Trails and staircases climb to lookouts above the city and the Tsuut’ina Nation, making it a simple outing for anyone interested in great views and local history.
0
0
Circling the entire city, the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway links neighbourhoods, wetlands, parks, and open prairie into one long, easy to follow loop. The paved pathway rolls through more than a dozen green spaces, passing fitness parks, off‑leash areas, and quiet stretches of grassland as it connects over 50 communities throughout Calgary.
0
0
The Riverfront Park trail follows the banks of the Bow River through Riverfront Park in Cochrane. This easy paved pathway runs beside the fast-moving river and offers frequent views of the water as it winds through the valley. Benches and small viewpoints along the route make it a pleasant place to pause and watch the river, while the path connects with Cochrane’s wider trail network for longer walks along the Bow River corridor.
0
0
This section of the riverside path along the Bow River offers a quiet place to pause beside the water. A bench here looks out over the broad river as it flows past Cochrane, making it a pleasant spot to sit and take in the view. The Bow River is known for its clear, glacier-fed water flowing from the Rocky Mountains. While people sometimes wade along the shoreline in summer, the current can be strong and the water stays very cold year-round, so entering the river should be done with caution.
0
0
Riverfront Park sits along the banks of the Bow River in Cochrane. The park is known for its scenic riverside pathways that follow the Bow River through the heart of town. Wooden boardwalks, benches, and viewpoints along the trail make it a pleasant place to pause and watch the fast-moving river below. The park also connects to Cochrane’s larger pathway system, making it a popular starting point for walking and cycling along the river valley.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Rocky View County?
Rocky View County offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hikes, with nearly 100 routes specifically curated for families. The majority of these, around 66, are rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Rocky View County?
You'll find a diverse range of terrain suitable for families. Many trails wind through scenic river valleys, like those along the Bow and Elbow Rivers, offering gentle paths. Other areas feature open fescue grasslands with sweeping views, or lush forested paths, particularly in parks like Bragg Creek Provincial Park. Expect generally mild elevation changes on the family-friendly routes.
Are there any trails with unique natural features or waterfalls that are suitable for families?
Absolutely! Big Hill Springs Provincial Park is a highlight, known for its series of year-round springs and small waterfalls cascading over moss-covered tufa formations. It offers an easy loop trail that's very family-friendly and provides a unique geological experience.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Rocky View County?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Rocky View County, with an average score of around 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful natural scenery, and the accessibility of many routes for all ages.
Are there any easy loop trails perfect for a family outing?
Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. For a short and easy option, consider the North Loop Trail, which is just under 3 km. Another great choice is the Griffith Woods Park loop — Calgary, offering a slightly longer 5.5 km experience through pleasant surroundings.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hikes?
Many trails in Rocky View County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most provincial parks and on many multi-use trails. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.
What are some good options for short, easy walks with young children?
For shorter, easy walks ideal for young children, the North Loop Trail is a great choice at just under 3 km. Another gentle option is the Riverfront Park to Bow River shores route, which is about 4.5 km and offers lovely riverside views.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints of the Rocky Mountains or other natural landscapes?
Many trails provide stunning vistas. Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park, for instance, offers extensive views towards the Rocky Mountains and overlooks the Bow River. Trails like the Glenbow Trail within the park are known for their sweeping panoramic scenery.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in the area?
Most provincial parks and popular trailheads in Rocky View County, such as those at Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park, Big Hill Springs Provincial Park, and Bragg Creek Provincial Park, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to arrive earlier on weekends or holidays as spots can fill up.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Rocky View County?
Spring, summer, and fall are all excellent seasons for family hiking in Rocky View County. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers warm weather and lush greenery, and fall showcases beautiful autumn colours. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the foothills.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for spotting wildlife?
Yes, areas like Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park, with its fescue grasslands, and Bragg Creek Provincial Park, with its forested paths, are known for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and other local fauna. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Most popular routes around Rocky View County
Most popular attractions around Rocky View County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Rocky View County below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
