Exploring Kananaskis with Kids
- motheruncomplicated
- Jun 28, 2020
- 4 min read
I want to start by saying I love every part of the mountains in Alberta. We are truly lucky to live in a province that has so many wonderful places to explore. That being said my absolute favourite part of the mountains is Kananaskis Country. Just a short 45 minute drive from south Calgary with a ton of activities to do as a family. From easy to moderate hikes, water falls, ice caves, camping, and the beautiful little town of Bragg Creek. And did I mention wild horses?
Yes you heard that right! On certain days in Kananaskis you can find these majestic animals lining the streets of K- Country or taking a stroll through your campground.
Our first camping trip to Kananaskis we stayed at my now favourite spot Mclean Creek Campground. We were all sitting around the fire enjoying 1 or 3 cocktails haha, when I heard something large coming in our direction through the woods. Branches snapping underfoot and me a new camper in Alberta my immediate though was holy s**t a bear. As the beast got closer I realized it was a small herd of horses.
I could be small minded but I though it was the coolest thing to see them wander the campground and so did my kids, which made our first camping trip even more exciting.
Another great amenity in Kananaskis County is the hiking. It has so many wonderful hikes to do with children of all ages! Here is a list of some of the best hikes to do with kids.
List of Family Friendly Hikes
Fullerton Loop: is a 6.9 km hike around a heavily trafficked loop. (so if your nervous of bears this ones for you). It features a river and is open year round. Dogs are permitted but only on leash! This trail is rated as moderate!
Elbow Falls: is a 1 km hike (perfect for little ones). There you can see breath taking views of the waterfall and caves. The photos above are from my kids and I heading off trail and along the ridge if your looking to make your hike more moderate. Elbow Falls is a great area for kids to explore with lots of open area, seating and views. You can even pack a picnic and sit on the rocks to enjoy the beautiful bow river.
PowderFace Ridge Trail: Now this is for the older kids. It's a 13.4 km hike through hill side. If your looking for a trail that is more off the beaten path this ones for you. You can also take in the wild flowers on your hike.
Canyon Creek Ice Trail: Is also for the older kids. It's a 13 km heavily trafficked out and back hike. There you can view the ice caves with tons of exploring.
Forgetmenot Pond: Is a great trail for parents looking to have tons to check out in a small area. Path ways are paved around the pond made easy for strollers and also picnic table with fire pits. If your looking for a little more to check out here you can head out the back as the bow river flows in behind. Below are a few photos of our recent adventures at Forgetmenot Pond.
If your looking to stay the night in Kananaskis while exploring here are some great family campgrounds to check out.
Maclean Creek Campground: This one as noted above is my favourite. It is a large campground with sites available for both tent and trailer (power sites also an option.). With options to bring your 4 wheeler to enjoy the great paths lining the campground. There is a store located at the front of the park for small necessities you may need and coin operated showers that are kept very clean. Booking are available by clicking my link above. ( Note: due to Covid19 showers and washrooms may not be accessible. Please call ahead or check the website link for more information.)
Gooseberry Campground: There are over 80 sites available along the Elbow River. They recently added power sites improving the location for trailers, while keeping the fun of a few walk-in tent sites. From this area you can fish and hike! Gooseberry campground also offers a playground for kids! These sites are first come first serve!
Paddy's Flats Campground: is found along the Elbow River just past Mclean's Creek Campground. Here there are 100 well-treed sites which are suited for campers and tents. These site are unserviced and are first come first serve. Several of the sites back on to the Elbow River, which is great for a fun day of play in the water with the kids. There are interpretive trails accessible from the campground and other horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking trails nearby.
Last but absolutely not least is the great town of Bragg Creek.
This Playground is located just inside the town on Bragg Creek. My kids love it. There is a larger part of the playground for the older kids and then a smaller playground on the other side for the little ones. There are also washrooms just inside the facility.
While in Bragg Creek stop but the Sugar Shake Bakery for a tasty treat while exploring. So now you can see why I love Kananaskis. I guarantee you will not be bored and your kiddos will come back tired with their cups full from adventure. Please leave a comment and let me know your favourite part of Kananaskis! Thanks for reading.
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