2019 Experience Calgary by experiencetravelguides

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23 Helpful Map Pages Playgrounds Rural Attractions Cochrane Easy Hikes Canmore Fat Biking Campground Directory

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E Make Strathmore your next stop People are flocking to Strathmore and doing more than just ‘stopping in’. It’s our award-winning brewery, our downtown’s unique boutique shopping, our destination gifts and wine, and our renowned butter tarts that visitors are sticking around for. Whether you’re strolling through the prairie parks, driving down the golf green, or running with the bulls, this is the sign you needed to find quality in life again - just 25 minutes east of Calgary on Highway 1.

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STICK AROUND DOWNTOWN IN JULY AND WIN! INFO AT STRATHMORE.CA

Heading East? Experience the Dinosaur Trails is the perfect companion when visiting the Canadian Badlands!

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Experience Calgary & Kananaskis A Message from the Publisher Welcome to the seventh annual edition of this, our guide to the parks, pathways, and recreational opportunities located within and in close proximity to Calgary. For the past 20 years we have been residents of Parkland. We appreciate the opportunity to step into Fish Creek Provincial Park. It’s just minutes away! It is therapeutic to be able to “get out of the city” so quickly, breathe deeply, and de-stress. But our situation isn’t unique. Fish Creek is one of the largest urban parks in Canada. Alberta Parks estimates visitations at close to three million each year. However, it certainly isn’t the only park to which

Calgarians flock, daily. We’ve been blessed with numerous green spaces, both within and close to the city. Most residents can easily enjoy the great outdoors now that our parks have been connected by a network of 1,000 km of trails and paths. To find a park, path or activity in your area, check out the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway maps. NEW for 2019: several rural attractions located just outside of Calgary as well as a new Canmore Section, including the very popular Nordic Centre Provincial Park. Time in nature has been proven to enhance the quality of our physical and mental health. Make time for it. Bob Harris

From our Mobile Library, you can seamlessly share your discoveries with your friends & family via Social Media. Check out ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library. Dig into our archives for even more great stories!

Our Contributors

Dana Wheatley is an

Tanya Koob is a

Graeme Pole is

Karen Ung is a mother

Andrew Penner is

experiential playground expert and loves to seek out the best places to play in Calgary, across Alberta and beyond with her husband and three kids. When she is not exploring, you’ll find her relaxing with a book or a crochet project. Visit

Calgary-based freelance writer and lover of all things adventurous in the mountains. She spends her weekends gliding through snow or water. She has a 10 year old son and loves hiking, camping, and exploring the backcountry with her husband and son. Visit Tanya’s Blog where she chronicles her adventures

the best-selling author of thirteen books that describe the natural and the human history of western Canada. Three of his titles have been finalists in the Banff Mountain Book Festival. His most recent is the novel, Siren Call.

and married to her sweetheart. She loves maps, mountains, and mochas. With her Geography degree and experience leading backpacking trips in the Rockies, she is full of ideas on where to go and what to do. Her blog, Play Outside Guide, provides “everything you need to know to get outside and have fun” (aka @playoutsidegal) (Canmore Year Round pg 50)

an independent writer and photographer living in Calgary, Alberta. His work has been featured in Westworld, Westjet Magazine, Golf Magazine, Golf Tips, Golf Canada, and many leading golf and lifestyle publications. When not travelling or working, he enjoys reading, movies, and chilling out in the backyard with his wife, Dawn, and their four boys. (Calgary’s Craft Beer Scene pg 32)

calgaryplaygroundreview.com

to find great places to play with your family.

Visit his website: mountainvision.ca

rockiesfamilyadventures.com

(Rotary/Mattamy Greenway pg 10)

(Easy Hikes Off the Highwood Trail pg 62)

(Ha Ling Peak pg 56)

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Experience Calgary & Kananaskis Welcome to the 2019 – 2020 Edition CMI Publishing is a division of Complete Marketing Inc., a privately-owned company with offices in Calgary, Alberta. We specialize in the production of our Experience Travel Guides & Maps in print as well as digital formats. Printed copies are delivered in bulk to our network of distribution outlets throughout the region. Travellers are encouraged to pick up a FREE printed copy through these outlets or use a mobile-friendly edition of this, or any of our current or archived guides from our Mobile Library at ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library Please support our advertisers and sponsors. If you get the chance, kindly mention where you saw their ad. Without their support this guide would not be possible Publisher: Bob Harris, CMI Publishing bob@cmipublishing.ca Ph: (403) 259.8290 Designer: Christine Weston christine@extenddesign.ca Cartographer: Rob Storeshaw robstoreshaw@shaw.ca Book Keeper: Adrienne Albrecht bookkeeper@cmispeakers.com Advertising Sales Reps: Dan Clements, Allen Gibson, Joseph Macdonald, David Saxby Brian Peck, Dale & Kelly Schultz

Circulation: Ian Klein, Warren & Sandy Pearson Allen Gibson, Kelly & Carla Schultz Distribution Outlets: Through Visitor Information Centres in Alberta, Saskatchewan & British Columbia, AMA Travel Offices, MEC, Planet Organic, Calgary Farmers’ Market and more. For a complete list: experiencecalgarygreenway.com/about-us/our-distributors/

Cover photo: Courtesy of Christy Turner Title: “Fat Biking in the Kananaskis” Taken at Grassi Lakes Share Your Experience: Upload your selfies, photos and videos to be eligible to win great prizes ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Contests Follow us @Facebook/ExperienceTravelguides

Sister Publications Include: Experience the Cowboy Trails, Experience the Dinosaur Trails, Experience the Mountain Parks, Experience Waterton Lakes National Park Experience Alberta’s Coal History, The Jasper Map and the Kananaskis Trail Maps

Taken by Warren Pearson of Haley at Black Diamond Gallery

Congratulation to Haley Kolodychuk for winning the grand prize in our 2018 photo contest with her photo “Young Coyote at Nose Hill Park”

Enter our 2019 Photo Contest, Info on pg 68 5 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Table of Contents Activities Calgary’s Craft Beer Scene 32 Calgary’s Rural Attractions 34 Canmore Nordic Centre 52 Easy Hikes in Peter Lougheed 60 Easy Hikes off the Highwood Trail 62 Experience Calgary/Kananaskis Golf 26 Fat-Biking in Kananaskis 44 Ha Ling Peak 56 Old School Camping 55 Weaselhead Natural Environment Park 13

Specialty Pages Building Playgrounds 28 Calgary 6-33 Campground Directory 66 Canmore 48-54 Cochrane 36-39 Fish Creek Provincial Park 15-25 Kananaskis Country 41-47, 58-65 Photo Contest 68 Rotary/Mattamy Greenway 8-11

Map Pages Bow Valley Provincial Park 46 Canmore 49 Canmore Nordic Centre 54 Cochrane Parks and Trails 39 Elbow Valley 65 Fish Creek Provincial Park Map 20-21 Fish Creek Single Track Map 22-23 Ghost Area 40 Greenway NE Calgary Map 31 Greenway NW Calgary Map 30 Greenway SE Calgary Map 14 Greenway SW Calgary Map 12 Highwood & Cataract Area 63 Kananaskis Country 42-43 Kananaskis Valley 58 Kananaskis Village 59 Peter Lougheed Provincial Park 61 Rotary/Mattamy Greenway Map 9 Sheep River Provincial Park 64 Spray Valley Provincial Park 47

Experience Calgary

Calgary Zoo, Photo Courtesy of Tourism Calgary

Fort Calgary, Photo Courtesy of Ian Holmes @irrationalcarny

Calgary is located at the confluence of the Elbow and Bow Rivers. With a metro population of 1.37 million, it’s the largest city in Alberta and the 5th largest city in Canada. The North West Mounted Police found the ideal place to build a fort in 1875. Colonel James McLeod came up with the name “Fort Calgary”, after his home in the Scottish Highlands. Located just east of downtown, Fort Calgary trumpets the rich scarlet history of the North West Mounted Police and also the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. However, this site and stories being told here, are changing. A plan was launched in 2006 based upon the decision to expand the narrative to include previously untold Indigenous stories. Members of Treaty 7 and also the Metis Nation were invited to join an advisory committee to help guide decisions related to the project. In 2017, “Markings” was installed as an exhibit that reimagines the symbolic beginnings of Calgary. A year later, the gardens, surrounding park, and the Deane House (yes, the building with ghosts!) were all upgraded. Hunt House and Metis Cabin are restored and the 1888 Barracks are being renovated. However, the biggest change was the decision made in 2018 to build a new 12,750 sq. ft. museum, one that would better

showcase the site as both a cultural and historic gathering place. But fear not! Fort Calgary remains open and welcomes visitors to discover the rich history found here. Open daily 9am - 5pm, except July 2, Dec 24 - Jan 1, and Good Friday. Admission: $12 for Adults, $11 for Students & Seniors, $7 for Youths 7-17, $5 for Children 3-6, Free if Under 3. Calgary is also home to several other major attractions. This includes The Calgary Zoo, Calgary Tower, Heritage Park, TELUS Spark, Canada Olympic Park, the Glenbow Museum, Spruce Meadows and the Military Museum. With the advent of DNA testing, Boomers retiring, and access to an ever-growing database of personal records, people are flocking to explore their ancestry. This, combined with the fact that 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII, has created a perfect storm for The Military Museum which now hosts more than 50,000 visitors each year. This world class facility is home of four regimental museums: Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, Lord Strathcona’s Horse, The Calgary Highlanders, and King’s Own Calgary Regiment. It also houses a new Library and Archives and space dedicated to temporary art and heritage exhibits called The Founders’ Gallery.

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Experience Calgary Western Canada’s only tri-service museum and military history education centre is open 9am - 5pm daily, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Admission: $15 for Adults, $5 for Seniors & Students, Free for Veterans and also Children Under 7, $30 Family Rate. The Calgary Zoo (Canada’s most visited) is another “mustsee”. It is open from 9am to 5pm each day, 364 days each year and is home to 800 animals from around the world. After many years of planning, and $100 million in upgrades, the Calgary Zoo opened the doors to its state-of-the-art Panda Passage in 2018. When visiting, watch out for the dinosaurs! The landscaping within the Prehistoric Park was designed to recreate an environment reminiscent of the Mesozoic Era from 225 to 65 million years ago. Dinosaurs lived towards the end of that era, in what is now Alberta. To learn more, pick up a copy of our sister magazine, Experience the Dinosaur Trails or download it at ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library. Dinny the Dinosaur is a 118-ton replica of a brontosaurus. It was one of 56 sculptures that were installed in the park. Fossils

found in Southern Alberta inspired these models and the artist added several mystery contents to its stomach to add bulk. Dinny’s Green is located at the heart of the zoo. A food services and a new children’s play area, as well as the replacement of the suspension bridge from the North Shore, makes this an exciting gathering place. Please note that the Prehistoric Park at the Calgary Zoo is only open from Mar 22 - Oct 31. To find out more information, call (403) 232-9300. calgaryzoo.com Every year, this vibrant community hosts numerous events, such as: the Alberta Beer Festival, Calgary International Film Festival, Calgary Folk Music Festival, Beakerhead, FunnyFest, Shakespeare by the Bow, GlobalFest, Sled Island Music & Arts Festival, the Calgary Fringe Festival, Calgary Pride, and many more. visitcalgary.com/things-to-do#/1701/festivals However, the granddaddy of all of the events in the city is the Calgary Stampede. The first Friday of July, marks the launch of a remarkable 10-day celebration of our authentic western heritage. Every year, more than one million attend the greatest outdoor show on earth. To learn more, pick up a copy of our sister publication Experience the Cowboy Trails.

If you need it out here, we have it in here.

LOCALLY OWNED • LOCALLY OPERATED • LOCALLY FOCUSED Mount Royal 403.474.1113 MacLeod Trail 403.278.4040 McKenzie Towne 403.257.4729

Pacific Place 403.248.6400 Deerfoot 403.295.2800 Dalhousie 403.288.1100 Shawnessy 403.201.2002

Visit your local store for pricing 7 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Westhills 403.246.1961 Country Hills NE 403.226.9550 Beacon Hill 403.456.6428

Experience the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway The Rotary/Mattamy Greenway was just a dream in 2009. The idea was to build a pathway that encircled Calgary, the only one of its kind anywhere. Along the pathway, there would be over a dozen parks and amenities to visit and enjoy. The $50M project was massive and unprecedented in scale, both for Calgary and for the Parks Foundation. Imagine a wheel – the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway, connecting to spokes – Calgary’s many existing pathways. Together, they form the largest pathway network in the world, over 1000 km of trails. Starting with pathway construction in Calgary’s northeast in early 2010, the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway progressed with support from key partners, including real estate developers, energy companies, individual Calgarians and all levels of government. After ten years since inception, the dream of leaving a legacy to our city and a unique outdoor free recreational attraction of connected urban pathways for everyone to enjoy has become a reality. The Rotary/Mattamy Greenway project is unique in that it makes use of the Transportation Utility Corridor (TUC), by safely incorporating public pathways and park amenities on underutilized and often vacant green spaces. Bordering Tsuu T’ina Nation lands on the west side, and continuing through several areas of significance for the Blackfoot and other First Nation communities, it travels through 55 Calgary neighbourhoods, and reflects the diversity of the city’s population.

DISCOVER RIDGE, SW

PROGRESS ENERGY POPPY MEMORIAL

Portions of the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway use existing pathways through established neighbourhoods, while other sections traverse several communities that were once separate towns or hamlets, including Midnapore, Shepard and Bowness. These are places that have their own unique identities. Large sections of the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway are adjacent to the city’s newest neighbourhoods, which are just beginning to establish a sense of place and community. As a year-round destination for cyclists, cross-country skiers, runners, nature lovers, and kids of all ages, the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway is home to over 12 specialized and incredible amenities. At Parks Foundation Calgary, our dream is to continue enhancing the pathway, with more and more amenities, like pearls to a necklace. We’ll see you out there! By: Alexandra Velosa 8 | Enter our Photo Contest

Experience the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway

Evanston Panorama Hills

Sage Hill Nolan Hill

Sherwood

Redstone

Coventry Hills

Citadel

Royal Oak

Skyview Ranch

Stonegate Landing

Kincora

Cityscape Interpretive Wetland

Cityscape

Rocky Ridge Saddle Ridge

Arbour Lake

Tuscany

Saddlebrook Playpark Taradale

Scenic Acres

Baker Park

Taradale Dog Park

Silver Springs

Coral Springs Monterey Park

Arc Resources Interpretive Wetland

Bowness Montgomery

Tourmaline Outdoor Fitness Park in Point McKay

Patterson Strathcona Christie Park

Abbeydale

Point McKay Wildwood

Applewood Park

Westgate

CN Rail Playpark

Glendale

Progress Energy Memorial Garden

Signal Hill

Discovery Ridge

Glenbrook

Glamorgan

Lakeview

Greenway pathways Transportation utility corridor Parkland Nature park Wetland Dog park Playground Memorial

Oakridge

Cedarbrae

Woodbine Woodlands

Evergreen

Canyon Meadows

Lake Bonavista

Southeast Wetlands

Shawnee Slopes

Deer Run Midnapore

Parkland

Sundance

Jim Davidson Bark nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Play McKenzieDog Park Lake

Fitness park

Auburn Bay

Rotary Nature Park

Copperfield

Mahogany

Transcanada Outdoor Fitness Park and Mahogany Wetlands Seton

Cranston

Courtesy of Parks Foundation Calgary

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Experience the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway Parks Foundation Calgary plans to continue to develop the attractions along the network, but there are already lots of great features to enjoy. Here are some of the highlights from around the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway.

Manmeet Singh Bhullar Park - NE This newly developed park is located in the community of Taradale, close to where Manmeet Singh Bhullar lived. This legacy park pays tribute to Bhullar, a Calgary politician, a strong supporter of park development, who is remembered fondly for bringing people and communities together. It is fitting that the park is a real community space. The park covers over 5 hectares and includes a colourful grove of trees, a plaza and large harvest tables. These tables are unique in Calgary, providing gathering places that seat up to 20 people. The grove is composed of five different types of trees that will intertwine together as they grow. It represents Bhullar’s ability to bring people together across all kind of cultures.

David Richardson Memorial Disc Golf Park -NW This 27-acre site is located at the intersection of Country Hills Boulevard and Stoney Trail in northwest Calgary. Disc golf is similar to regular golf but instead of a ball and club, you use a flying disc. This park is a full 18-hole tournament level course.

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Access is free of charge. You can download a course map and score card at the Parks Foundation Calgary website.

Cityscape Music Park - NE Kids of all ages will love the musical stations and the web climber can be used in various ways by kids all ages.

Saddlebrook Playpark - NE

This is a nature-inspired park, with natural looking rock and log features. Some of the play equipment even looks like bears! It’s a great play area for older kids and younger kids alike.

CN Rail Playpark - SE Some of the play equipment here looks like creatures you might find in the wetlands. Located next to the community of Applewood, this playground is also nature-inspired with rock and log features that are natural looking. If you take a short detour into the neighbourhood, you can also stop by one of the best playgrounds in the city located in Applestone park.

Mahogany TransCanada Outdoor Fitness Park - SE CN Rail Play Park

Although this park is designed for adults, adventurous kids love it too. In addition to traditional outdoor fitness equipment, this park has huge climbing boulders.

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Experience the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway Tourmaline Outdoor Fitness Park, Point McKay - NW This park, near Angel’s Cafe at Edworthy Park, has outdoor fitness equipment designed to provide a full body workout. It also has a bike station with multiple tools that you can use to fix your bike including a bike air pump.

Wetlands Interpretive wetlands are a major part of the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway. You’ll them along the east side of the greenway from Cityscape’s wetlands in the north all the way down to the Rotary Nature Park near Cranston. The scenic ARC Resources Interpretive Wetlands is located within the NE community of Monterey Park. Stop for a picnic or just read the educational signs about our fragile watershed.

Cityscape Music Park

South East Wetlands offers an extensive wetland area with four boardwalks, two bird blinds, a lookout tower for bird viewing and educational signage. The Ralph Klein Park is only a short detour along the route and includes extensive interpretive wetlands and a fantastic, nature-inspired play park. The Mahogany Wetlands are a destination for residents within this community who wish to enjoy a quiet, natural setting or use the adjacent outdoor fitness park. Story and Photos By: Dana Wheatley

lands

Cityscape’s Wet

The Rotary/Mattamy Greenway is not only a great place for people, it’s also a great place to take your dog. Taradale Dog Park - NE This is a fully fenced dog park includes weave poles, benches and granular paths.

Jim Davidson Bark n’ Play Dog Park - SE You’ll find this dog park in the community of Auburn Bay. It is also fully fenced and offers two separate training areas with weave poles and agility runs. It even has pits for digging, a dog water fountain and a granular trail system.

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Progress Energy Memorial Garden

Crowchild Trail

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14 Street SW

Heritage Drive

Anderson Road

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24 Street SW

south glenmore park

fish creek park

Stoney Trail

Legend pg 9

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Experience the Weaselhead

Photo Courtesy of Tanya Koob

The Weaselhead Natural Environment Park was created in the early 1980s. It encompasses 237 hectares of natural land and is located in SW Calgary. There are two entrances, one in the north in the community of Lakeview and one in the south near Oakridge and Glenmore Landing. This wildland park is a great example of a “riparian” habitat, or a landscape that is greatly influenced by a stream, river or lake. In this case, the park is located in the Elbow River Valley and the trees, plants, and animals that live there are directly influenced by the river. Ancient spruce, some well over 150 years-old, live in the river basin. You won’t find pines here as they prefer dry soil. The Weaselhead contains wood frogs, muskrats, moose, coyotes, beaver, and hundreds of migrating bird species, including ducks and raptors. Rose-breasted grosbeaks, mergansers, and swans are also species that are regularly seen in the region. The Weaselhead is a sanctuary for kayakers, cyclists, birders, and dog walkers. The Elbow River was dammed in 1933 to make the Glenmore Reservoir and this created a lake and an area known as “the mud flats.” The mud flats support shore birds, muskrats as well

as under-water life. The entire natural area acted as a sponge and a strainer during the 2013 flood. The willows and other shrubs strain out debris and the oxbows and the back-channels absorb excess water. Although the origin of the name is uncertain, the park is most likely named after the Tsuu T’ina Chief, Weaselhead, who was in power at the time of European contact. The park borders thier treaty lands, creating a wilderness riparian corridor from Calgary west to Bragg Creek and on to Elbow Lake, which is the source of the Elbow River. Weaselhead is a natural treasure in Calgary and, not surprisingly, its wilderness qualities are protected by city bylaws. The river basin provides household water to tens of thousands of Calgarians. If you need to reconnect with your deeper self, the Weaselhead provides that sanctuary for everyone. Whether you are watching the cliff swallows, skipping rocks, sitting under a 200 year-old tree, or pausing on your bike ride around the reservoir, you’ll certainly be enriched by the untamed, natural world around you. This beautiful riparian valley is vital to our health, our water supply, and the plant and animal species that Calgarians have come to love! By: Julie Walker

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Rotary/Mattamy Greenway - SE Calgary 17 Ave SE elliston park valleyview park

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Legend pg 9

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The History of Fish Creek Provincial Park Fish Creek Provincial Park officially opened in 1975 but people first arrived in Fish Creek valley about 6,500 BC. It is believed that First Nations peoples started using the valley for a bison pound about 4,500 years ago. For more information, be sure to check out the display in the Bow Valley Ranch Visitor Centre.

William Roper Hull and John Hull bought Fish Creek Supply Farm in 1892. The English-born Hull brothers had learned the basics of the cattle industry on their uncle’s cattle ranch in B.C. By the time of this purchase, Hull Brothers Company had become a major force in the local cattle industry.

Horses came into the Fish Creek valley in 1730 and by 1735 the first rifle was shot here. The first European settlers arrived in 1873 followed by the North-West Mounted Police in 1875.

In 1895, William Roper Hull began irrigating the 800 acres he had under cultivation. Hay yields soared from 90 to 1,200 tons of hay! Hull also cultivated the social life of an elegant class of Canadian ranchers unique to that period. The Bow Valley Ranche, as Hull renamed the farm, became the focal point for their gatherings. The original house burned down, and Hull built the brick two storey home still exists today.

In 1873, John and Adelaide Glenn settled at the confluence of Fish Creek and the Bow River - making them (along with Sam Livingstone) Calgary’s first permanent residents. By 1875, the Glenns had built their second home near today’s Bow Valley Ranch house. While farming, he established a stopping house and trading store. This served the growing traffic between Fort Benton (U.S.A.) and Fort Calgary. The Glenn’s stopping house became a popular rest area for weary travellers. In 1879, John sold out to the Federal Government so they coulde stablish a Supply Farm to provide the First Nations people in the area with desperately needed provisions. John and Adelaide moved upstream, and built their third and final home at the area now referred to as Glennfield. Here, they raised a family of six children, farmed and they built the first irrigation system in western Canada.

In 1902, Hull sold to Patrick Burns who came to dominate the western meatpacking and dairy products industries. Burns changed the purpose and function of the house. The Ranch was no longer the site of parties for the fashionable elite. The only entertainment it hosted was the occasional luncheon for visiting dignitaries and some staff functions. Burns operated the ranch as a sorting site for cattle brought in on their way to his slaughterhouse. Animals were fattened up there or at his feedlot (near the Calf Robe Bridge on Deerfoot Trail). The Bow Valley Ranch remained in the Burns family until the provincial government bought it in 1972.

William Roper Hull, Calgary, Alberta Courtesy of Glenbow Archive; PB-896-3

Pat Burns. Courtesy of Glenbow Archive; NB-16-150

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The Ranche at Fish Creek Restoration Society

The Artiszan Gardens

The Poet Tree Legacy Garden

Education through history, art and culture is our mantra at The Ranche at Fish Creek Restoration Society. Founded in 1995, we seek to preserve the Bow Valley Ranche (BVR) as a memorable place. A cherished landmark situated on Treaty 7 lands, within Fish Creek Park, the BVR offers recreational areas, interpretive walks, and stewardship education to all the surrounding communities. We honour the past, present, and future through a relationship with all who visit the outdoor

Rooted in Community The BVR understands its responsibility to be an ambassador of respect while sharing the stories it represents to everyone in the community. A significant chapter of Alberta’s history was written here, and within the walls of the buildings built in the early days of ranching. Celebrating Art We promote the artists and their original artwork through the ArtWORKS at BVR program. Two artists are featured for a 4 month period during the year. From May - September, 2019 visitors to the BVR Restaurant will see an exhibit of the works of Wes Olson and Keegan Starlight. Keegan Starlight is an artist from the neighbouring Tsuut’ina Nation. His work will be featured on one of the monoliths

spaces of the Native Species Garden, the Artisan Gardens, the Branded Patio, and the Poet Tree Legacy Garden. A captivating feature of the site is the Ranche house, which was built in 1896 by William Roper Hull. It is now a finedining restaurant called The BVR Restaurant. Just a few steps away is Annie’s Café, open seasonally Apr - Oct, for casual light lunches, fresh baked goods, and ice cream!

of the Artisan Gardens. Keegan’s work is well known in the City of Calgary. He’s been an Indigenous Artist at the Calgary Stampede, and has created works for such venues as the new Central Library in East Village. Wes Olson has a real passion for bison. In addition to creating detailed renderings of wildlife, Wes is also a keynote speaker and a bison expert. BVR looks forward to featuring not only Wes’ original art in the Grand Salon of the BVR Restaurant, but to glean information from his teaching, as well. Wes’ “The Evolution of Bison” looks at the prehistoric species of bison and how each of these evolved or became extinct. Tracing the geographic distribution of bison over millennia, one is drawn forward in time to the plains and wood bison that currently occupy North America.

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Sponsorship Opportunities In addition to the original art on display in the BVR Restaurant, the atmosphere at Annie’s Cafe is greatly enhanced by featured Calgary photographer, Shirley A. Davis.

grade 4, 5 and 7 students. These are presented by our History Wrangler, Rob Lennard, in French, Spanish, and English at the beautiful Artisan Gardens, en plein air!

All original art and photography featured through ArtWORKS at BVR is for sale, with 30% of sales returning to the Society. For more details, please visit bowvalleyranche.com/art

We Value Our Volunteers and Sponsors We are now celebrating 24 years as a Canadian not-for-profit charitable society. Volunteerism and sponsorship of our legacy programs are necessary to ensure continued programming and maintenance of the facilities. Get involved by adding your story to Alberta’s history by supporting these initiatives for the preservation, education and enjoyment for all.

Poet Tree Legacy Garden Have you seen the 20 foot Poet Tree sculpture, and the handcrafted wooden benches that surround the book exchange library? Each was once a tree standing strong on the BVR property. These trees faced the wear of time and elements of weather, but were brought back to life in a new, repurposed way! You will not see another sculpture quite like this one, carved by artist and co-curator of BVR, Doug Levitt. The liveedged backs of the benches are made from the salvaged trees. The vision of the Poet Tree Legacy Garden is to be used as a teaching facility where literacy, creative writing, and academic programs take place. It’s a place to write your story! The Bow Valley Ranche Learning Centre After celebrating the 20th Anniversary of The Ranche at Fish Creek Park Restoration Society four years ago, we opened our Learning Centre by offering twelve historical curriculums for

Sponsors receive a charitable tax receipt and recognition that reflects you level of contribution. There are various levels of sponsorship, each of which reflects a personal connection to the donor’s interest in art, history, and education. We’re grateful for any and all donations. By: Larry Wasyliw

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or sponsor, come be part of creating your own Legacy. Please visit bowvalleyranche.com

Wes Olson, First Gallop Bison-Calf, mixedmedia

Keegan Starlight, Boy, Charcoal

17 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

A Foodie’s Guide to Fish Creek Park

Annie’s Cafe, Photo Courtesy of Courtesy of @bookstrucker

With its rolling landscapes and babbling brooks, Fish Creek Provincial Park is immersed in natural beauty, but the discerning foodie knows to come for a special treat at the Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant and Annie’s Café.

The Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant This legendary venue was a sophisticated hub for the founders of Calgary. 12 decades later, it houses one of the city’s premier restaurants. Offering only the finest fare, the menu is built on the tenet of local sourcing, and the artistry of Chef Jenny Kang. Dinner Our summer menu features Beretta Farms Beef Tenderloin (widely regarded as the most tender cut—lean meat with a soft buttery texture) delivering exquisite meaty flavour with every bite and perfectly paired with black garlic aioli, maitake, kale, herb puree, rainbow carrot, agria potato pave and port wine truffle jus. For a flavorful play on textural contrasts, our Surf and Turf for two is the perfect combination between sea and land featuring North Fork Bison striploin, herb crusted bone marrow, scallops, shrimps, clams and seasonal vegetables. Rangeland Farm Elk Tartare is the perfect appetizer. Prepared flawlessly with truffle powder, it pairs well with horseradish cream, chips, and cured yolk. Game meat has many health benefits; packed with nutrients and flavour.

Photo Courtesy of Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant

Brunch We have been named one of the best brunch restaurants in Canada. A time-honoured family tradition here, bringing folks around a weekend table. Perfect for sharing, the Ploughman’s Platter is a long-time staple on the menu, featuring cured and dried meat, homemade terrines, marinated vegetables, grainy mustard, chutney, domestic cheese, and artisan bread. In addition to the classics, like the amazing Bright Stone Farms Eggs Benedict—available in smoked salmon or traditional, paired with spinach & mushroom potato sarladaise, bacon or sausage and fresh fruit—the menu offers unique dishes like Asparagus and Proscuitto, poached eggs under hollandaise sauce, Grana Padano, sarladaise and a multigrain toast. Annie’s Café This quaint farmhouse was moved to its current spot in 1905. It housed the ranch foremen and their families, including Billy Bannister and his wife, Annie. Today, Annie’s Café serves luscious hard ice cream, along with soups, sandwiches, and pastries, specially crafted at Cravings Market Restaurant. More than just a source for special cones and picnic snacks, Annie’s Café holds a special place in the hearts of Calgarians. Patrons anxiously await the annual opening in spring and line up around the corner throughout the summer. Nostalgia and tradition bring guests to enjoy the benches on the shady porch.

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Experience The Ranche Restaurant

Escape to our backyard. Immerse in the history. Indulge in the food.

15979 Bow Bottom Trail SE Calgary, AB â&#x20AC;&#x2030; 403-476-1310

bvrrestaurant.com @RancheYYC

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Experience Fish Creek Provincial Park

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21 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

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Experience Fish Creek Single Track Trail

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Pathways and Trails • Stay on designated trails. Check Park map and signage for approved trails. Failure to do so could result in a conviction, pursuant to Section 27(2) of the Provincial Parks Act (General Regulations).

• Some areas have been closed to encourage natural vegetation and reclamation of impacted areas. All reclaimed areas are designated by these signs:

• Follow the directions of posted notices or signs. • The single track trail system is connected with existing paved and granular pathways. Single track trails are designated by this sign: FREE 0

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Park Facilities and Information Park washroom facilities are located near staging areas; consult detailed Park maps for facility locations. For Park info phone 403-297-5293 or visit fish-creek.org

Trail Etiquette

Safety on Single Track Trails

• Be courteous - a cyclist climbing a steep grade will appreciate your stepping aside.

• Single track trails are maintained at a lesser standard than paved or granular trails, and are not graded for difficulty levels; use at your own risk.

• Avoid trail use when it is soft and muddy to help prevent trail widening and the creation of short cuts. • Do not alter the trail in any way. No building jumps or obstacles.

• All riders should wear a helmet. Helmets are mandatory for those under 18 years of age. • Be aware that Park maintenance and emergency vehicles may be on Park pathways.

EMERGENCY telephone 9-1-1 EMERGENCY Locator numbers are located throughout the Park. Quote this number to emergency staff so they can easily locate you in the Park.

Trail Care Program: If you or your group would like to participate in a Trail Care day, please contact the Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park Society, visit friendsoffishcreek.org or phone 403-238-3841. 23 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Sikome Lake

Photo Courtesy of Travel Alberta / Alberta Parks

Ask any Calgarian, we do not get a ton of super-hot weather. However, when the temperature soars in summer, the place to be is at a lake. For thousands of Calgarians in the southern portion of the city the go-to lake is Sikome (si-KO-me). How did the lake get that name? In her book, Fish Creek Provincial Park – A Guide to Canada’s Largest Urban Park, the author, Anna Robertson, provides an insight. When John Glenn arrived, the Indigenous people called the creek ‘Siokame’, meaning ‘black fish’. The waterway soon became known as Black Fish Creek and over time, this name was shortened to Fish Creek, which we still use today.

Sikome Lake Fees

Day Season Pass Pass

Family

$10 $100

Persons with disabilities

$2 $25

Adult (18-64)

$5 $50

Senior (65+)

$4 $40

Child (6-17)

$3 $30

Child (0-5)

Free Free

(2 adults and children at the same residence) (aides enter for free)

Season’s passes can be purchased in advance at albertaparks.ca/sikome.

Sikome Aquatic Facility provides great outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitation typically reaches 100,000 people for the season, which, in 2019 runs from Jun 29 - Sept 2. A way to beat the heat, this lake is perfect for young families. However, this is NOT a lifeguarded facility. Use is at your own risk and please become familiar with the rules of use. This venue has many amenities including swimming areas, change rooms, gas-powered BBQs, play areas, and concession stands. And in the past couple of years, Alberta Parks has been working to enhance and modernize the facility. They replaced the sand and renovated a shower building. Other work includes improvements to water treatment, upgrades to paving stones and new tent structures. They’ve even introduced commercial food trucks to the facility. The main entrance is open daily throughout the season, from 10am - 6:30pm, although the entry gates may close due to inclement weather. albertaparks.ca/sikome Thousands of Calgarians will continue to flock to the facility to enjoy those attributes. And on those precious few hot days each summer, Sikome Lake will continue to be the place you want to be. By Andrew Penner & Bob Harris

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Experience Fish Creek Provincial Park

Memorial Forest Program As you walk and ride through the park, you may notice areas set aside for this program and wonder what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about. The Memorial Forest program began in 1996 as joint venture between McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes and Fish Creek Provincial Park. It provides families with a meaningful way to deal with the loss of a loved one. A tree planted will remain a living memorial to which family and friends can return every year. Over the years, this program has expanded to other areas of the city and more than 50,000 trees have been planted to date. McInnis & Holloway is responsible for the maintenance of the forest. Throughout the spring and summer they apply 30,000 litres of water each day to ensure the health and longevity of the trees. For more information visit mhfh.com.

Experience the Rotary Nature Park The Rotary Club of Calgary Chinook developed and maintains a very special 40 acre (16 hectare) place in the southeast corner of Fish Creek Provincial Park. This unique project is described as a Nature Park because the land was used for years as a gravel pit prior to being reclaimed to its original natural state. The park now contains engineered wetlands, ponds, and a trail system to allow visitors to enjoy a variety of wildflowers and native plant species. The wetlands attract waterfowl and upland birds, making this park the perfect sanctuary for bird watching. To enhance your enjoyment of the park, 5 gazebo shelters and several park benches were constructed. The Park is located adjacent to the Bow River and south of Stoney Trail. A trail in Cranston enables you to walk down to the park. Cyclists can ride south from Sikome Lake to the east side of the river. This Nature Park is also easily accessed via McKenzie Meadows Dr to a paved parking lot. Visit chinookrotary.org.

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Experience Calgary Golf

Heritage Pointe Golf Course, by Andrew Penner

With its beautiful river valleys, arid coulees, rolling parkland, and wonderful mountain views—it’s no surprise that Calgary is home to some of the best golf courses in the country. And, with over thirty championship golf courses to choose from, there are numerous holes that easily fall into the “awesome” category. While the following holes are high in wow factor, your list of favourites could easily be completely different.

Heritage Pointe Golf Course Tucked away in beautiful Pine Creek Valley near De Winton, Heritage Pointe has remained a “must play” in Calgary ever since it first burst onto the scene. With three distinct nine-hole courses, an outstanding practice facility, and a sprawling hilltop clubhouse, it’s certainly the full meal deal. And the tough-asnails 4th on the Heritage Nine, a 479-yard par 4 that bends along the bluff and crosses the creek, is one of many to feast on at Heritage Pointe.

Valley Ridge Golf Club Hugging the banks of the Bow River in NW Calgary, Valley Ridge is another upscale facility with all the ingredients for a memorable day of golf. And the 7,100-yard Ken Dye designed golf course is certainly the star of the show. One of the standout holes is the par 3, 17th. It plunges down the hill (so club selection is always a crap shoot!) and features a massive green surrounded by sand pits and poplars.

Sirocco, Golf Club, by Andrew Penner

McKenzie Meadows Golf Club The back nine starts with a solid run along the bluff, including the toughest hole on the course, the 440-yard, par 4, 12th. It requires a strong fade off the tee and a long iron approach into a small green guarded by the busiest bunker on the course.

Sirocco Golf Club The course, which meanders through a beautiful valley south of Calgary, is both tricky and tough. The 18th, for example, is a super-strong, 440-yard, par 4 with two creek crossings. It is a hole that epitomizes both the beauty and challenge of this excellent championship course.

Calgary Elks Lodge & Golf Club Located in the heart of Calgary and routed through mature pines and poplars, the Elks features one of the best finishing stretches in Alberta. The 17th, a long 225-yard downhill par 3 with a green surrounded by water, is an outstanding, lateround challenge. A good swat here and you could be singing a birdie ballad; a bad swing and it’s the double-bogey blues!

Inglewood Golf & Curling Club The closing hole on Inglewood’s classic, tree-lined course—a terrific risk/reward 489-yard, par 5 with water guarding the green—is an excellent summation of one of Calgary’s most popular facilities.

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Experience Kananaskis Golf The word “Photogenic” is just one great way to describe the stunning mountain courses located in nearby Canmore. This historic coal mining town boasts three exceptional courses able to hold their own against anything... anywhere.

Silvertip Golf Course With 18 compelling holes that parade up and down the slopes, huge elevation changes, bold bunkering, beautiful shaping, this is, perhaps, the ultimate example of mountain golf. And tumbling down the mountain with an idyllic, baby blue pond protecting the green, the finishing hole, a wild par-4 where anything can happen, is a fitting conclusion to every round.

Stewart Creek Golf Course The finishing run here, on the opposite side of the Bow Valley, is just as good. Designed by Gary Browning, Stewart Creek is a smooth-flowing design that takes full advantage of the site’s natural features. Rock outcroppings, spirited creeks, major elevation changes, crystal-clear ponds, and old mine ruins are all incorporated. And, no question, the final stretch, which

concludes with a go-for-broke par-5 plunging down the hill towards the clubhouse, is a great chance to end with a birdie.

Canmore Golf & Country Club This mature course cruises through pines and meanders along the serene banks of the Bow River. A community-minded course with a history of excelling at game-growing initiatives, this is a welcoming and inviting place for members and guests. Its peaceful and pastoral setting – augmented by a challenging mix of playable, super-fun golf holes – have made this course a long-standing favourite among golfers in the Bow Valley. Without a doubt, golf in Kananaskis is a rich and rewarding endeavour. Mountain golf – with its rarefied pine-scented air, spectacular vistas, and roller-coaster characteristics – holds a special place for golf enthusiasts. So special, in fact, that the shots that don’t quite pan out, are quickly forgotten. They say, “The mountains shall bring peace to the people.” My theory is that the scribe was writing those words to golfers. By: Andrew Penner

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Haultain Playground

Mills Park Play Space

Building Playgrounds with Parks Foundation This year, Parks Foundation Calgary is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Building Communities program. Through this program, they have supported nearly 160 playground build and improvement projects.

One of the many great benefits of this decentralized approach to building playgrounds is a greater diversity in the completed projects. New playgrounds in Calgary can differ immensely depending on the wants and needs of the community.

Parks Foundation Calgary is instrumental in the creation of many of Calgary’s playgrounds. In many cities, decisions about playground replacement and design are very centralized with little input from the community.

Here are some of the projects that Parks Foundation Calgary has supported. They are great playgrounds to visit, and they also help illustrate some of the directions your project can go.

In Calgary, however, if your school or community wants a new playground, you can help make that happen. It’s a big undertaking, but Parks Foundation Calgary is here to help you make your project a success. Their Building Communities grant program offers more than just funding. They provide support throughout the entire process, including project management, budgeting, fundraising, volunteer recruitment and more. If your school or community has a playground they would like to upgrade, visit the Parks Foundation Calgary website at parksfdn.com/building-communities for applications guidelines, and more information. The deadlines for the grant program are February 1st, May 1st and October 1st. All applications are reviewed by a volunteer Advisory Committee with final approval given by the Parks Foundation Calgary Board.

Nellie Breen - Inglewood It was completed in 2008 and has an amazing gateway entry highlighting all the donors and supporters of the project. The gateway really illustrates how much support playgrounds need! More than just a playground, this shady park is a community space, featuring a gazebo, adirondack chairs, picnic tables, and a pathway. It’s truly an intergenerational space. 703-14 St SE Mills Park Play Space - Inglewood It was completed in 2017 and located less than a kilometer away from the Nellie Breen playground. These two playgrounds juxtapose each other quite well - they are both great but very different! The Mills Park playground has a natural focus featuring logs, sand, and loose parts. You can easily visit both parks in one stop to Inglewood. 1520-9 Ave SE North Glenmore Playground - North Glenmore It was completed in 2017 and is a natural-style playground

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North Glenmore Playground

Hidden Valley Playground

which includes many rock and log features, a hill slide and a brand new zipline! 21st Street and 52nd Ave SW Queen Elizabeth Elementary School - Hillhurst Completed in 2017, it features a traditional playground and beautiful naturalization space with large rocks and plants. The area surrounding the playground is fantastic and very parklike, particularly for a school playground which often lacks any shade or greenery. 512-18 St NW Hidden Valley Playground - Hidden Valley It features traditional playground equipment with a twist. The playground is built on two tiers with large rocks as retaining walls, which creates some unique play opportunities. 118 Hidden Way NW Haultain Playground - Beltline Right next to the Calgary Parks Foundation office, you can find a traditional inclusive playground. If you are visiting the Parks Foundation office (located in the historical Haultain school house) you can stop for a play at this excellent playground. 225-13th Ave SW

Harvest Hills Community Hub - Harvest Hills This park includes educational nature pods, traditional and natural play elements, as well as community seating and an event bulletin board. More neighbourhoods are considering spaces like this, which extend past the playground pieces to create genuine community spaces. 178 Harvest Glen Way NE Parks and Playgrounds to watch for! Springbank Hill Community Park - on a 6.2 acre parcel of land, the community is turning this space into a real hub. They are planning a community garden, traditional and natural play features, an amphitheater, and a natural existing aspen forest. 7541-26th Ave SW Wildwood Community Playground - The traditional playground was completed in 2018, but Wildwood Community Playground will be adding an Indigenous component to the space. This community felt it was integral to acknowledge our connection to Indigenous culture at their park. White Oak Crescent and Spruce Drive SW Photos and Story By: Dana Wheatley

If you have a school or community park that could use an upgrade, visit parksfdn.com/building-communities for guidelines, applications and more information. 29 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Rotary/Mattamy Greenway - NW Calgary

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30 | Enter our Photo Contest

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17 Ave SW

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31 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Calgary’s Craft Beer Scene Unless you’ve been busy sipping your lovely Chardonnays and nursing your sweet single-malts, you’ve probably noticed that Calgary’s craft beer scene is booming. Breweries are popping up and opening their doors every week, it seems. And that’s not far from the truth! Calgary is now home to 50 craft breweries. But by the time you read this, that number will be higher. “Calgary is surrounded by some of the highest-quality barley fields in the world,” says Drew Riley, President of YYC Beer, a local marketing consortium and information hub that focuses on all things beer in the Calgary area. “So it only makes sense that our craft beer scene is one of the strongest in the country. We’re definitely familiar with oil booms in this province, but now we’re in the middle of a beer boom!” Unquestionably, Calgary’s craft beer pioneers such as Big rock, Wild Rose, and Village paved the way for the next generation. And they’ve arrived with plenty of energy. Hip and happening taprooms, locally-sourced food menus, cool swag, community spirit, live music, fun-loving vibes, and delicious beer are just some of the trademarks of “the scene.” Looking to sample some of the tastiest brews and coolest taprooms our city has to offer? The Barley Belt just south of the

downtown core might be the best place to start. “The Barley Belt, an industrial area located just southeast of the downtown core, is home to the highest concentration of breweries,” says Riley. “They’re situated in close proximity to each other so you can walk or cycle to a number of them with ease. There is also the ‘Brewery Flats’ area in Inglewood, which is also home to a half dozen, or so, breweries and taprooms that are easily accessible and close enough for a great little walking tour. But, chances are, the neighborhood you’re in will have a local brewery. And that’s probably as good a place as any to start.” One of the trademarks of these breweries is the variety of beer styles that you can try. Newbies to craft beer and seasoned connoisseurs can usually sample a taster-sized flight of different beers and, potentially, hone in on a style they like. Nearly all of the craft breweries have IPAs (India Pale Ales), rich stouts, easy-drinking lagers, thirst-quenching pale ales, and spicy pilsners. And, of course, experimental beers, fruit beers, ciders, guest taps (beers from neighboring breweries), and many other varieties are par for the course. An open mind with a willingness to “think outside the box” can go a long way to enjoying your experience at a craft brewery. True, you may not like everything you try, but chances are something in the

Cold Garden Beverage Company, Courtesy of Travel Alberta / Davey Gravey

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Courtesy of Village Brewery / Colin Way

Experience Calgary’s Craft Beer Scene local repertoire is going to get your taste buds doing backflips and get you jumping on the craft beer bandwagon! Although it’s hardly fair to single-out a handful of breweries (honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them, they all have merit and a character all their own!), here is a sampling of some of Calgary’s brightest stars on “the scene.”

Eighty-Eight Brewing Company – Situated in Ramsey, it pays homage to Calgary’s history-defining Olympic year of 1988. While the taproom – complete with ghetto blasters, Olympic paraphilia, old boxy TV’s, and classic rock – is vintage 80s at its finest, the beer is second-to-none. Try their Hologram White Ale, a dry-hopped Belgium ale that will have you singing Van Halen tunes in no time.

Cold Garden – The vibe here is grassroots and unpretentious. A dog-friendly place (in the heart of culture-rich Inglewood) with an atmosphere that resembles someone’s back-forty workshop. No glitz No glamour. For that reason, it’s a quintessential craft-brewery experience. Try their classic IPA, appropriately named This Must Be the IPA, for a delicious, award-winning beer that hopheads are lapping up by the hectoliter.

Wild Rose Brewery – As one of Calgary’s early craft breweries (they date back to 1996), Wild Rose was founded on a dream: to free Albertans from the tyranny of boring beer. They have succeeded. Their tasting room is a roadhouse-style haven in the Curry Barracks area just off of Crowchild Trail in southwest Calgary. Try a pint of their awesome Raspberry Ale and pair it with a Margherita Pizza. Yum.

Paddy’s BBQ and Brewery – At Paddy’s, located in the Barley Belt, you can have the best of both worlds: mouth-watering southern BBQ and delicious craft beer. After taking home gold in the 2019 Alberta Beer Awards for Brewery of the Year, you can bet this place is going to be a busy little place in the months and years to come. Try their brisket and pair it with their rich Vienna Lager, a slightly maltier lager with bread, biscuit, and nut notes.

Born Colorado – The youthful, outdoorsy vibe that prevails here, plus the awesome beer, makes it a fine representative of Calgary’s craft beer scene. Enjoy the patio. Enjoy the energy. And a Border Patrol IPA. Then walk across the street to Cabin Brewing, Banded Peak, and nearby The Establishment and Annex Ale for the tour to beat all tours.

Paddy’s BBQ and Brewery

By: Andrew Penner

Wild Rose Brewery, Courtesy of Julian Tejada @jc_tejada

33 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Calgary’s Rural Attractions You don’t have to travel far from Calgary to find some great family attractions. You’ll be surprised at the variety of options in our own backyard. Whether you are looking for thrill rides or a day at the farm, there really is something for everyone an hour or less outside the city. Many of these attractions are open seasonally, so check the dates before you go.

of your food. At the Saskatoon Farm, you can get a little bit closer. All year long you can eat at their restaurant right at the farm, and shop for treasures at their gift shop. Seasonally, you can find plants in their greenhouses and explore their farmer’s market. In mid-to-late July, you can pick Saskatoon berries and sour cherries for a delectable home made pay.

Iron Horse Park is located in Airdrie. Take a ride on a miniature

Kayben Farms is located near Okotoks. Sunshine Adventure

(1/8 scale) train. Each ride is a few minutes long and takes you through different kinds of terrain features, representing a ride from the Prairies to the West Coast.

Park at Kayben Farms is packed full of family fun. From pedal kart tracks and playgrounds to corn mazes and walking trails, your whole family will be entertained for hours. Although it is not a petting zoo, there are some farm animals you can visit too. Kayben Farms specializes in U-pick black currants.

Big Fun is located just North of Calgary. It’s Canada’s largest indoor inflatable park. They have over 25 attractions, but very few are your garden variety bouncy castles! The activities are great for a range of ages, from little kids all the way up to adults. Unlike many places that are fun for older kids, at Big Fun you can stay and play all day rather than paying by the hour.

Shakers has offerings for kids of all ages and adults too. There is no admission charge - you only pay for the activities you want to access. Alternatively, you can purchase an unlimited play day pass. They have several indoor activities including an inflatable village, laser tag, a climbing wall, mini bowling alley and tons of redemption games. In the warmer months, they also have mini golf and go karts.

Calgary Corn Maze is located just to the east of Calgary along Hwy 22x. The Calgary Corn Maze and Fun Farm has a ton of different activities, but it’s easy to navigate because everything is so open. You can play mini golf, get lost in a corn maze, ride ziplines, and so much more. Best of all, nearly everything is included with regular admission.

Aspen Crossing is a must see if you have a train fan in your family. It is a heritage railway that is now used for tours and excursions. Although the train tours are the headliner, Aspen Crossing also boasts a campground with “caboose cabins,” restaurants, a gift shop and a garden centre. Excursions are typically 2-3 hours and may include meals, music or theatre. These are no ordinary train rides - themes include High Tea, Dinner Theatre, Circus Train and more! In the winter they even run a Polar Express Train. Spend a day at the farm at the Saskatoon Farm. When you live in a city, it can be easy to get disconnected from the sources

Bar U Ranch is a national historic site and living museum (Heritage Park, but a ranch not a town). It commemorates Canada’s ranching heritage. You can catch a ride on a horse drawn wagon, try some cowboy coffee at a round up camp, explore farm-building, and try your hand at cattle roping!

Chinook Honey is more than just a bee farm. It is a great place for a family day trip. At their learning centre, you can learn all about bees and even see bees in glass demonstration hives. The bees in these hives can move freely to the outdoors. In their retail space, you can eat honey sweetened ice cream, try mead, and taste-test several different varieties of honey. You can also stay for a picnic.

Granary Road is a different kind of farm, but definitely packed with family fun! Their active learning park has eleven different themed areas. It aims to be a learning space in addition to a play space. Kids will love all the different activities, these include climbing through a huge ant farm, jumping like a frog on a lilypad, and petting a live goat. Granary Road also has a public market with many vendors offering food and gifts, as well as a restaurant and bakery.

Calaway Park has small rides perfect for toddlers, thrill rides for bigger kids, and plenty of entertainment and games. Most of the rides are included with your admission. This Western Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park. As you can see, there are a ton of activities available just outside the city. Whether you want to try new foods or play the day away, you can find it near Calgary. Photos and Stoy By: Dana Wheatley

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Experience Calgaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rural Attractions

Iron Horse Park

Granary Road

Bar U Ranch

Calaway Park

Aspen Crossing

Calgary Corn Maze

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Experience Cochrane Located 36 km west of Calgary, Cochrane is an ideal getaway, be it for an afternoon adventure or a weekend camping. The town gets its name from Senator Matthew Cochrane, who established a ranch here in 1881. So, the town’s western roots run deep. This is cattle country, and it is home to both the Bert Sheppard Stockmen’s Foundation Library, and the Cochrane Ranche Historic Site. Full of western memorabilia, ask the staff about their 101 Hats Collection and the numerous examples of saddles, brands and barbed wire on display. Before World War I, Cochrane was home to a stone quarry, a saw mill, and four brick plants. Skilled artisans combined their talents to construct buildings of quality and style. Today, Cochrane is still noted for its artisans, western heritage, and its small-town hospitality. The Studio West Art Gallery & Bronze Foundry is a unique attraction. Don & Shirley Begg have operated this lost-wax bronze foundry since 1970, during which they have created dozens of public statues. Stop for a free tour of sculpting and see work in progress. They’re located on 2nd Ave East just two blocks south of Railway Street.

Tim Hall/ Cochrane Tourism Association

One of the big draws here is MacKay’s Ice Cream! They’ve been serving perhaps the best ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet in western Canada for the past 71 years. Some of their more innovative flavours include Purple Yam, Chai Tea, and Mayan Chocolate (with chili and cinnamon), although their best seller is Chocolate. What’s your favourite? In recent years, Cochrane has earned a glowing reputation as a centre of outdoor recreation for such activities as wind sports, paragliding, skydiving, water activities, golfing, hiking and cycling. If you crave water sports, the Ghost Reservoir is only 15 minutes west along the scenic Hwy 1A. Do you prefer rock climbing? Be sure to check out Mount John Laurie just 20 minutes west of the Ghost. And all along Hwy 1A, the birdwatching is terrific! There are numerous events throughout the year, such as Outhouse Races on Main Street during the Lions Labour Day Rodeo weekend. Come here and be prepared for a warm, western welcome. It’s a great place for those seeking rest and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting. Enjoy an easy hike at the Glenbow Ranch, or a round of golf at Glen Eagles and discover Cochrane’s many dining delights. Come make memories! 36 | Enter our Photo Contest

Experience Cochrane See cochrane-tourism.ca for up to date event listings January Kimmett Cup

February Clubhouse Art Walk (Monthly event)

March Cochrane Winterfest Hunter/Jumper Show Spring Farmers Markets begin

April Foothills Art Club Show and Sale, Cochrane Brewfest

May Cochrane and District Trade Show The Cochrane Art Club Show and Sale Celebration of Music Spring Concert

June Open Doors Cochrane Extreme Cowboy Show

July Canada Day Community Festival Foothills Bucking Horse Futurity Celebrate Parks Day Dressage Show

August Shooting for A Cause Cochrane Fair Cochrane Classic Bull Riding Calgary Police Rodeo Western Dressage Show

September Cochrane Rodeo Labor Day Parade Prairie Girls Vintage Market Cochrane Outhouse Races Bud Brewster Tournament in support of STARS at Brewster’s Kananaskis Ranch Golf Course.

October Foothills Art Club Fall Sale Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation Annual Dinner & Auction

• Beautiful riverside location • 144 sites (50 & 30 amp) • Next to Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre & new pool facility • Close to all amenities & shopping • Easy access via Hwy 22 to Griffin Rd • Power, water & sewer on every site • Laundry & firewood • Central washroom & showers • Basic Wi-Fi included • Year round camping/winter storage • Highly rated Good Sam Park

The Premier Year Round Campground on the Cowboy Trail 403.932.4675 I Toll Free: 877.932.4675 900 Griffin Road East, Cochrane, AB

www.bowriversedge.com

November Cochrane Light Up Winter Wonderland Sleigh Rides at Historic Cochrane Ranche

December Christmas Farmers Market

Spring Hill RV Park

Cochrane Street Market June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19, 2019: 1st Street West, 5:00 – 9:00 pm. The Cochrane Farmers’ Market and the businesses within the Historic Downtown Cochrane invite you to experience a unique shopping experience. Enjoy market vendors, artisans, food trucks, music, buskers and late night shopping. cochranefarmersmarket.ca

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Fully serviced RV park. All amenities on site including gas station, propane, convenience store, fast food, liquor store, laundry, power/water/sewer to each site, dump station, pull thru sites, showers and laundromat. Located 7 km north of Cochrane on the corner of Hwy 22 and Hwy 567. Reservations recommended.

Ph: (403) 932-2010 info@springhillrvpark.com www.springhillrvpark.com

Experience Cochrane Imagine walking down a path past a strand of multi-coloured poplars in the fall as the leaves feather to the ground, backdropped against the pure blue, big Alberta sky. One cannot help but become fully immersed in nature, and that is what Cochrane’s Riverfront Park encompasses, nature.

treat. Head west on the paved path and experience the snowcapped mountain view when you rise out of the valley. The stunning vista will literally take your breath away, or the loss of breath may be due to the long hill that climbs out of the valley and into Mitford Park.

The park reflects the lovely natural setting that surrounds it, with natural amenities provided in the children’s playground. Beautiful wooden slides and climbing apparatus will keep the children busy for hours while parents interact with their kids or visit the area and have a picnic.

Or head east and soak up the stunning flora. Hike along the river winding paths that are walled with Wolf Willow, Wild Gooseberry, Canadian Buffalo-Berry and several other shrub species that populate the southern Alberta river valleys.

One of the featured attractions in the park is that it borders the beautiful Bow River. There is a boat launch and many people spend an afternoon rafting or boating down the Bow River, or casting a line into the liquid jewel that has become worldrenowned for trout fishing. Cap the day with a barbeque in one of the half-dozen firepits provided.

The paved path heading east leads visitors to a frisbee golf course. This popular game that can be played year-round. If frisbee golf isn’t your thing, keep following the path east until you encounter a forested area that is reminiscent of a Brothers Grimm story. One must then make a decision, take the path north into the overhanging trees, or continue east along the river to the nearby off-leash dog park and a world beyond.

If people don’t want to get their feet wet, there are plenty of paths, close to 60 km throughout Cochrane for the landlubbers either on foot or on wheels. Regardless of which direction one takes, or which path they choose, people are in for a visual

Riverfront Park is ideally located next to Hwy 22, on the south side of the bridge and is easily accessed from Griffin Road with plenty of parking. By: Patrick Price

FEEL THE ADVENTURE A peaceful walk along the Bow River, or an epic hill climb on your bike? Either way, the setting itself is enough to take your breath away. Explore Cochrane’s vast pathway system with mountain views, treed parks and big skies. No traffic jams here.

cochrane-tourism.ca

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Experience Cochrane Key to Park Names 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

33 22 23

Samuel Spicer Park Henry Whitfield Park Whittle Park Crawford Park Clarence Copithorne Park Rotary Park Mitford Park Matt Krol Park Millennium Park William Camden Park Kerfoot Park Centre Island Park Dewey Blaine Park Carolina Crescent Quigley Park Wearmouth Park Fenton Park Centennial Park Terry Fox Park C.W. Fisher Park

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

Murphy Brothers Sunset Park Sunset Circle East McDougal West McDougal West Hall West Terrace West Terrace PG Meadow Place Bow Meadow Court Riverview West PG Glenhill PG View Park Glenbow Drive Riviera Park Riversong Fireside Heritage Park West McKay

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Picnic Tables Trails Trans Canada Trail Dog Off-Leash Parks

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Courtesy of Cochrane Tourism

39 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience the Ghost Area Burnt Timber

Forestry Trunk Road (Formerly Hwy. #40)

Fallen Timber South

579

Waiparous Valley Viewpoint Ghost Airstrip

Waiparous Creek

North Ghost Waiparous Creek

Forestry Trunk Road (Formerly Hwy. #40)

Ghost River

South Ghost

Forestry Trunk Road (Formerly Hwy. #40) Gate

Lake Minnewanka Ghost River

Ghost Reservoir Ghost Lake

Bow River

Barrier Lake

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

EMERGENCY If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police, or Mountain Rescue assistance, call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

Spray Lakes

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Experience Kananaskis Country On September 22nd, 1978, Premier Peter Lougheed officially dedicated Kananaskis Country and Kananaskis Provincial Park (now Peter Lougheed Provincial Park), as a place where all visitors could enjoy outdoor recreation. Half an hour west of Calgary, this 4,200 sq. km recreation area quickly became a cherished location for Albertans to hike, ride, and be active on the eastern slopes of the central Rockies, year-round. Since then, and especially after the ‘88 Olympics, it has grown into a place where people from around the world come to enjoy wildland recreation. It’s a place to renew your spirit and reconnect with wilderness. The name Kananaskis was chosen 161 years ago to name the lakes, valley, and river visited by Captain John Palliser on his expedition through the area. The name comes from the Cree ‘Kin-e-a-kis’, said to be the name of a warrior who survived an axe blow to the head. Archaeological evidence of human use goes back 8000 years, and the Stoney-Nakoda, Siksika, Blood, and Kootenai First Nations all have deep connection here. Kananaskis Country was first identified as a place worthy of being preserved, more than a century ago. In 1902, parts were included in the Rocky Mountain National Park (now Banff National Park), but they were removed in 1911 and eventually turned over to the Alberta Government in 1930.

Alberta Wilderness Association proposed a wilderness area in the Elbow, Sheep, and Kananaskis Valleys. That same year the Environment Conservation Authority identified a need to set aside this area to protect watersheds and to provide resource development and recreation opportunities. The mountains were formed about 200 million years ago as tectonic plates forced layers of rock to pile, break, and fold into mountains. The rock itself, mainly limestone, comes from layers of fossilized sea creatures that lived hundreds of millions of years ago in an inland sea that covered southern Alberta. The evidence is seen in ancient coral reefs, oyster beds, and shark teeth throughout the area. When you visit the area, anticipate comfortable facilities, such as the Canmore Nordic Centre (see pg 52-54) and the William Watson Lodge, (see pg 61) vibrant education and interpretive programs, and a continued commitment to public safety and wildlife management. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Info Centres can provide you with more information about trails and activities. Explore the area’s spectacular landscape. Help to preserve Kananaskis Country for the next generation by minimizing your impact. Be safe and enjoy your visit!

Bow Valley and Bragg Creek Provincial Parks were created in 1959 and 1960 and remain popular places to visit. In 1972, the

Mountain Vision Publishing Make the most of your visit with these titles

• Classic Hikes • Walks and Easy Hikes • Canadian Rockies Explorer • Siren Call • The Spiral Tunnels and the Big Hill Available locally

Photo Courtesy of Jonah Alvarez

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To learn more visit: albertaparks.ca

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Priddis

Millarville

Priddis

Campground Directory pg 66

Experience Kananaskis Country

Hiking Trail Interpretive Trail Motel/Hotel Mountain Biking Trail

Improved Gravel Road

Amphitheatre

Boat Launch

Camping (Group)

43 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com Public Telephone Restaurant Snow Vehicle Store Universal Accessibility Visitor Information Centre

Cross-Country Ski Area

Day Use Area

Downhill Ski Area

Dumping Station

Equestrian Facility

Fishing

Canoe Launch

Camping (Vehicle Access)

Parking

Heliport

Gravel Road

Camping (Tent Only)

Golf Course

Gas Station

Paved Road

Town/Hamlet

Campground Directory pg 66

Millarville

Experience Kananaskis Country

Experience Fat-Biking in Kananaskis

Jeff Bartlett @photojbartlett

At 7am my alarm goes off and I peer outside my frosty window to a sight that, well, doesn’t look all that appealing. A thin layer of fresh snow is plastered to the base of the windowsill. The temperature reads -12 Celsius. Everything outside looks dead grey and cold. I’m thinking the best course of action might be hitting the “kill switch” and settling back in bed for the rest of the morning. But, no, I made a plan. And I’ve got to stick to it. Fat-biking in West Bragg Creek (WBC) is calling.

afford the fast speeds and wild thrills of summer mountain biking, however, the riding can be just as invigorating. While the trails at West Bragg are a perennial favourite for fat-biking (Snowy Owl is also an awesome winter fat-biking trail at WBC), there are many other places where you can ride. Here are a few more to get you going!

Fish Creek Park’s vast network of trails are ideal for fat-biking. At 8:15am, I’m at the trailhead and a few minutes later I start chugging my way up Braggin’ Rights, one of my favourite trails in the area. At 8:45am, I hit a slight opening in the pines just as the sun breaks through a creamy layer of clouds over the eastern horizon. I stop to catch my breath on the slope, tilt my face to the sun, and the warm rays wash over me. Whiskeyjacks and chickadees are chattering in the pines. The trail is ideal for fat-biking, firm and frozen. I step on the pedals and keep going, eventually joining the spectacular Merlin’s View Trail for one of the most exhilarating loops at West Bragg. Near the summit of Merlin’s View I survey the mountain smeared scene. The sun is hammering the snow-dipped peaks. I feel alive, and completely convinced that getting out of bed on a chilly morning was precisely the right call. Indeed, for many people, the idea of biking during the cold months seems a little crazy. Or, at best, a little out of context. However, thanks to fat bikes - with their nubby, four-inch wide tires that offer plenty of grip and floatation over snow and ice – hitting the trails during the winter and unpredictable shoulder seasons can be a blast. Sure, fat-biking doesn’t always

And, if you’re a beginner, this is one of the best places to learn as the majority of the trails are relatively flat. If you start at Bow Valley Ranche in the far south end of the park (plenty of parking if you need to drive there), you can head off in any direction and find an easy “cruise” to get you “into the game.”

Canmore’s Nordic Center is a pot of gold for every outdoor enthusiast, including fat-bikers! A handful of designated fatbiking trails dip and dive along the pine-coated slopes. One of the most popular trails is EKG, a variety-filled 5 km trail that incorporates quick descents, some leg-burning climbs, creek crossings, and everything else you could hope for in a ride.

Kananaskis Village, thanks to a great atmosphere, including the beautiful Pomeroy Kananaskis Lodge and Kananaskis Outfitters (quality bike rentals), fat-bikers have a real home here. (The new Nordic Spa is the ultimate place to hang out after a winter ride!). The super-easy Bill Milne Trail, a paved path, is always a fun, easy ride for the entire family. And accomplished cyclists can have a riveting ride at nearby Jewel Pass. Not for the faint of heart, Jewell Pass is a full-on adventure in both summer and winter. Expect some grunting!

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Experience Fat-Biking in Kananaskis

Carrie Neu @Carrie_neu

Jeff Bartlett @photojbartlett

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is situated in the heart of

Sibbald Flats, thanks to its close proximity to Calgary, this area

Kananaskis Country and is home to a large network of trails, many of which are multi-use and allow for fat-biking (which is typically not permitted on trails that are track-set for crosscountry skiing). The newly constructed High Rockies Trail is a 63 km fat-biking feast that is the ultimate winter workout. A good place to access this trail (and enjoy other fat-biking loops in the park) is at the William Watson Lodge.

is a very popular place to go for a day ride. The Jumpingpound Loop is a sweet 9 km circuit that is fast and fun for all skill levels. Advanced riders can get the full-meal deal with Lusk Pass, Baldy Pass, or Tom Snow. Just be prepared, check maps, weather conditions, and ride in a group. Happy fat-biking! By: Andrew Penner

Tested for the jobs and joys of life in Canada.

LOCALLY OWNED â&#x20AC;˘ LOCALLY OPERATED â&#x20AC;˘ LOCALLY FOCUSED Mount Royal 403.474.1113 MacLeod Trail 403.278.4040 McKenzie Towne 403.257.4729

Pacific Place 403.248.6400 Deerfoot 403.295.2800 Dalhousie 403.288.1100 Shawnessy 403.201.2002

Visit your local store for pricing 45 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Westhills 403.246.1961 Country Hills NE 403.226.9550 Beacon Hill 403.456.6428

Experience Bow Valley Provincial Park Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park

Bow Valley Bike Path (paved) Montane Trail

Flowing Water Trail

l Ca

Hotel & Casino

Groups

Whitefish

Willow Rock

Moraine Bow Valley Trail Middle Lake

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

Grouse Camp

Many Springs Trail

Exshaw

Chilver Lake

Groups

YMCA Camp Chief Hector

Rocky Mtn. YMCA Yamnuska Centre

Bow Valley Provincial Park

Bow River

Quaite Valley

Heart Creek

Heart Creek Trail

Stoney Trail Canoe Meadows Groups

Kananaskis Information Centre Prairie View Trail

Quaite Creek Trail

to Banff & Canmore

Widow Maker

Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park

Kananaskis River

Barrier Dam

Jewell Pass Trail

(seasonal closure)

Sibbald Creek Trail

Colonel's Cabin/ U of C Field Station

Sibbald Area Barrier Lake

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EMERGENCY If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police, or Mountain Rescue assistance, call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

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Kananaskis Guest Ranch

Wasootch Creek Mt. Lorette Ponds

46 | Enter our Photo Contest

Trail

Experience Spray Valley Provincial Park Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park

Canmore

Deadman's Flats

Grassi Lakes Goat Creek

Valley

Exshaw

Lac des Arcs

Ha Ling Peak 2680 m

Park Quaite Valley

742 Goat Pond

The Three Sisters 2941 m

Jewell Bay Equestrian

Bow Valley Wildland Provincial

Driftwood Spray Lakes West

Mount Allan 2789 m

Reservoir

Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area

Nakiska Sundance Lodges

Sparrowhawk

Lak

BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Mount Lorette 2469 m

Spray Lake

Ribbon Creek Trail

Kananaskis Village

Mount Bogart

Mount Buller 2805 m

Canyon Dam

Buller Creek Trail

742 Buller Mountain

Mount Engadine 2970 m

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Mt. Engadine Lodge

Mt. Birdwood 3097 m

Mount Galatea 3185 m

Mount Kidd 2,958 m

Ribbon Falls

Mt. Kidd RV Park

Galatea Creek

Lillian Lake Eau Claire

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Mt. Shark 2786 m

Guinn Pass

Spray Valley

Smi

Mount Shark

Ribbon Lake

Kananaskis Golf Course

742

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

The Fortress 3000 m

Fortress Mountain

Fortress Junction

47 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

Experience Canmore Rumor has it that the town of Canmore was named in honour of King Malcolm III of Scotland from “Caennmor”, a Gaelic word that refers to one “being of tall stature” or “Big Head”. Canmore is strategically located on the Trans-Canada Highway, one hour west of Calgary, adjacent to Kananaskis Country, and just minutes from the East Gates of Banff National Park. 135 years ago, the railroad was heading west into the Rockies and this became a key divisional point, in part due to the ready access to coal. Photo Courtesy of Brendan Van Son @brendanvanson

There are few remnants left of the town’s rich coal mining history, but the Canmore Museum & Geoscience Centre is dedicated to telling this story and the geology of the Rocky Mountains. If you’d like to learn more, stop at the museum and consider taking home a souvenir. When the mine whistles blew for the last time in July of 1979, it seemed certain that Canmore would join a growing list of ghost towns. But as fate would have it, a few short years after coal mining ceased, Canmore was selected to be the host community for two of the venues for the 1988 Winter Olympic Games.

Photo Courtesy of Tourism Canmore Kananaskis

Canmore has evolved from a mining town to a world-class resort while maintaining its authentic alpine charm. The 1988 Olympics helped breathe new life into the town. The population has risen from 2,000 to 14,000 and the number of hotel rooms, vacation properties and retail merchants has exploded. Over the past 40 years, Canmore has evolved into a tourist town for all seasons, boasting all manner of outdoor adventures, several superior golf courses, and great dining experiences.

Photo Courtesy of Government of Alberta / Parks Canada

Photo Courtesy of Luke Raymond

To start your day, visit Beamer’s Coffee. They have a nice variety of blends and yummy baked goodies to go with it. For an affordable and healthy brunch, with a terrific view, we’d recommend Chez François. Locals tend to gather at the Drake Hotel for a pint, although the patio at The Wood Restaurant, with a stunning view of the Three Sisters, is a great choice, as well. You may be surprised to learn that Grizzly Paw Brewing Company serves up hand-crafted soda pop for the kids. Recently recognized by Chatelaine Magazine as one of Canada’s “Dreamiest Book Stores”, Cafe Book’s Chapter Two is a cozy place, perfect for a quiet read, with a hot beverage or a glass of wine, and a sweet treat. And if romance is in the air, or you just want to completely unwind, a leisurely drive south to Mount Engadine Lodge is a must.

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Experience Canmore Harvie Heights

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Quarry Lake

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Mount Lady MacDonald

Silvertip Rd

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Canmore Park

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Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park

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Harvie Heights

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CALGARY

40 Dead Man’s Flats

Canmore

Bow Cochrane

BANFF NATIONAL PARK

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Banff

Calgary to Canmore - 105 km

To Calgary 8

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Highline Trail

Experience Canmore Year Round

Photo Courtesy of Karen Ung

Photo Courtesy ofTravel Alberta / Katie Goldie

Photo Courtesy ofErik McRitchie @erikmcr

Canmore is a vibrant mountain town with endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, fun festivals, and good eats. “Is that the mountain we climbed last time, Mom? It looks so big!” From Centennial Park, Ha Ling Peak does look impressive. It’s one of the most popular scrambles in this area due to its spectacular views. I nod and point out the other Triple Crown of Canmore hikes: East End of Rundle and Lady MacDonald. Should we go for it? Here are some of our top picks for things to do in Canmore:

Take a Hike Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Canmore’s hiking trails have something for everyone: • An evening stroll with your pup - dogs can run off leash at Quarry Lake Dog Park. • Hike up to Grassi Lakes - the “easy” trail is open yearround and is sports stroller friendly; the “difficult” trail (closed in winter) goes past a pretty waterfall. • Explore the interpretive trails at Bow Valley Provincial Park - June is the best time to look for wildflowers. In spring, conditions permitting, bike Bow Valley Park road without cars (until the road opens on May 1). • Come winter, slip on microspikes and walk the frozen creek bed to ice falls and pictographs at Grotto Canyon.

Explore by Bike Paved and gravel bike paths have minimal elevation gain and are never far from great parks and restaurants. For a fun family bike ride, start at Millennium Park Mountain Bike Skills Park and bike the Bow River Loop to West Canmore Park. Enjoy the playground and panoramic views. On the way back, take a shortcut via the Engine Bridge (6.6 km loop). For a longer ride, bike the scenic and paved Legacy Trail from Canmore to Banff (22 km one way). Return the way you came or take ROAM public transit; the buses have bike racks! Head to Canmore Nordic Centre, for a skills park and great network of beginner and intermediate mountain biking trails. Beginners can ride Banff Trail and advanced riders will like Highline Trail, a challenging 8 km trail from Quarry Lake to Three Sisters Boulevard.

Whatever Floats Your Boat Stand up paddleboard at Canmore Reservoir, do some SUP yoga at Quarry Lake, float the Bow, or hit Class 3-4 rapids at Horseshoe Canyon. Whitewater rafting tours are available on the Bow and Kananaskis Rivers.

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Experience Canmore Year Round Go Underground-Year Round Descend into the Rat’s Nest Cave in Grotto Mountain with Canmore Cave Tours. At 4.5 degrees year-round (40 F), it’s never too hot or cold to go caving. Bring a sense of adventure and camera for out-of-this-world photos.

Climbing in Canmore With eight crags only 20 minutes from Canmore, the Bow Valley is climbing central. Just starting out? Go with a guide or take climbing lessons at Elevation Place. This world class facility boasts 10,000 square feet of climbing, 1,500 square feet of bouldering, and a 30-foot speed wall.

Attractions Canmore Nordic Centre is a multi-sport playground where you can mountain bike and roller ski in summer; and skate, snowshoe, and cross-country ski in the winter. Orienteering and disc golf are available year-round too. Elevation Place is perfect for swimming, climbing, and daily drop in core classes. The amazing aquatic centre has a lazy river, waterslide, lane pool, hot tub, and steam room. artsPlace, “where community meets creativity”, is where you can attend a live performance or make your own art. Learn more about Canmore’s history at Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre and NWMP Barracks. The latter is

Canmore Food Tour, Photo Courtesy of Victoria Wakefield @picobac

home to Art in the Park on summer weekends. Check their events calendar for more special events throughout the year.

Featured Festivals & Events Expect festivals in every season in Canmore! Here are a few you should put in your calendars: Canmore Winter Carnival: Celebrate everything winter in February and try your hand at ice carving, dogsledding, log sawing and more! Feb 28 - Mar 1, 2020 Canmore Uncorked Food & Drink Festival serves up our best with tasting menus at select restaurants, a delectable Long Table Dinner, and Wine and Beer Festivals. Unconfirmed at time of printing expect Apr 23 - May 3, 2020. Canmore Folk Festival, an annual tradition since 1978, offers 30+ artists on four stages. Artists and food vendors add to the flavour and the Family Area keeps kids busy. Aug 3 - 5, 2019. Highland Games: Experience Celtic Culture with A Taste of the Highlands, Highland Dance Competition, piping and drumming, heavy sports and more! Aug 31 - Sept 1, 2019 at Centennial Park. By: Karen Ung

For more information visit tourismcanmore.com

Canmore Cave Tours By Dan Hudson

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Experience The Canmore Nordic Centre

Biking at the Nordic Centre, Courtesy of Canmore Kananaskis Tourism

Built for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, the Canmore Nordic Centre boasts over 65 km of cross-country ski trails, fat biking trails, an ice rink, snowshoe trail, 8-hole disc golf course, and tobogganing hill. It’s our multisport playground where you can play all day and all evening, with 6.5 km of ski trails illuminated for night skiing daily.

We meet at Cornerstone Café, in the Day Lodge for lunch. With rosy cheeks, the girls tell me about the snowman they built and how fast they skied back. They want to play in the snow “more!” so we swap skis for sleds and hit the toboggan hill. When the kids can’t run up the hill anymore, we relax with hot cocoa by the fire. The perfect ending to a perfect day!

Cross-Country Skiing

More Fun Things to Do

Snow sparkles in the sunlight as I glide along pristine crosscountry ski tracks. Conditions are fantastic between Mother Nature, manmade snow, and world-class grooming. I ascend Beckie’s Hill, a tough climb where Olympian Beckie Scott earned Gold in the 2005 World Cup 15 km race and am thankful I got my wax right. It’s quiet, save for the occasional fat biker whooping for joy on a sweet single-track in the trees. The descent is steep and winding; my favourite kind of trail. I catch my breath in front of the Day Lodge, then do it again.

Disc Golf: Eight holes (1-4 & 15-18) are open in the winter. Get a map and scorecard from the Day Lodge.

Meanwhile, my family are skiing Banff Trail to the Chandra Crawford Hut, picturesquely situated in a meadow. Only 2 km from the Day Lodge, it’s a comfortable distance for young skiers - and a cozy spot for a snack. With spectacular views of Mount Rundle to the south and the Bow Valley to the north, the warming hut is worth a visit whether or not you are cold.

Early Season Skiing: Start your ski season in October thanks to Canmore Nordic Centre’s snow storage system! The 2 km “Frozen Thunder” track is open to the public on weekdays after 12 noon and all day on weekends. Fat biking: Canmore Nordic Centre has six single-track trails and one double-track trail for snow biking. EKG is one of the more popular trails: an intermediate-level trail with a berm, bridge, and lots of ups and downs. Start on the EKG East and travel in a clockwise direction. Ice Skating: The ice rink is located near the west end of the Day Lodge and boasts beautiful views of the Bow Valley.

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Experience The Canmore Nordic Centre Night Skiing: Ski for free after 5 pm! 6.5 km of trails (Lynx, Banff Trail, Banff Loop, and Bow Teardrop Loop) are lit up until 9 pm each night. Bring a headlamp and bear spray. Orienteering: Three orienteering courses are available yearround. Purchase maps and rent timing chips from Trail Sports. Skate Skiing: All groomed ski trails are wide and suitable for it. Snowshoeing: Start behind the Bill Warren Training Centre, follow the orange snowshoe markers in a clockwise direction to Lookout Cliffs. The 3 km loop is kid-friendly. Special Events: The centre hosts international events and is the training facility for both the National Cross Country and Biathlon Teams, if you’re lucky, you may see some of Canada’s best on the trails! Check the Alberta Parks’ events calendar for upcoming ski race dates. Tobogganing: The easy slope behind the Bill Warren Training Centre is groomed for it. Bring your own sleds and helmets.

Need a bite to eat? Cornerstone Cafe, located inside the Day Lodge, is the spot for coffee, fresh baking, and hot meals. Spare your kitchen floor and take advantage of our two wax rooms. They’re open to the public except on race days. Ski stands available. Bring your own iron and wax. For equipment rentals, lessons, and tours, stop at Trail Sports, they’re located across from the Day Lodge. By Karen Ung

Know Before You Go Trail use fees are in effect from 9am - 5pm for skiing only. Night skiing is free from 5pm - 9pm. Biathlon range passes are available to athletes in recognized team or club programs. Dogs are not permitted on cross-country ski or fat bike trails in the winter.

Amenities The Day Lodge has an information counter (purchase ski passes and pick up maps here), fireplace, washrooms, lockers, showers, and lots of seating. Open 9am - 5:30pm daily; the information counter and showers close at 5pm.

With so much to see and do, allow at least half a day to experience the Canmore Nordic Centre!

Courtesy of Canmore Kananaskis Tourism

Courtesy of Matthew Clark @stirlandraephoto

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Experience The Canmore Nordic Centre SUMMER TRAIL SYSTEM

NO ACCESS DISC

Biathlon Stadium

EASY TRAILS - Basic bike skills required. Gradients are generally minimal, but may include some short, steep sections. MORE DIFFICULT TRAILS - Basic off-road skills required. Most gradients are moderate, but may include short, steep sections.

Mountain Bike Skills Park

GOLF

MOST DIFFICULT TRAILS - Good off-road skills required. May have obstacles and include steep climbs and descents.

COURSE Bill Warren Training Centre

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This Maps depicts some of the more popular trails at the Nordic Centre

Rundle

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Most of the summer trails are used by bikers, but Georgetown Trail and Grassi Lakes Trail are also the most popular hiking trails in the Nordic Park area. Roller Ski Loop: This paved trail is designed for roller ski training. Please note that roller skiers have difficulty stopping; therefore, they have right of way.

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To Banff downtown 16 km

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Highline Trail

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Trail Sports

AREA CLOSED Dec. 1 to June 15 All other times travel on designated trails only

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Roller Ski Loop Canmore Nordic Centre Day Lodge Viewpoint

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East End of Rundle (EEOR) 2,530 m

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Canmore Nordic Centre Day Lodge

Ha Ling Peak

Goat Creek

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742 To Grassi Lakes Trail

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54 | Enter our Photo Contest

Way

Rundle Forebay es

Mount Lawrence Grassi 2,685 m

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Smith-Dorrien/ Spray Trail (road)

Miner’s Peak 2,636 m

CANMORE and Legacy Trail System

Experience Old School Camping Most everyone has a smart phone and other high-tech toys to make life simpler. However sometimes, it’s just nice to unplug and reconnect with your loved ones, and with nature! So, why not take your children camping… “old school”? Here are a few suggestions that can make your next trip truly memorable: Board games. The perfect way to make camping more fun when it rains, or the mosquitoes drive you inside. Do your kids (and grandchildren) even know what they are? Old School favourites include Monopoly, Scrabble, Clue, Yahtzee, and Sorry! When was the last time you played Crokinole? Folding card table and chairs. True, most campgrounds have picnic tables, but for a good game of cards or a board game, you can’t beat a card table. Picnic tables aren’t always very comfortable or easy to move. Four padded folding chairs and a table (or two!) don’t take up as much room as you might think. Shaved ice machine. Shaved ice is an inexpensive and sweet treat. It’s less messy than ice cream and gets the kids involved in making their own snacks. Ice is inexpensive and it is almost always available from the camp store where it can usually be purchased along with ice flavour syrups.

Cornhole platforms and bags. Played much like horseshoes, this lawn game is safer and fun for all age groups. Players take turns throwing bean bags at a raised board with a hole in it. Kites. There’s no better way to spend a breezy, sunny afternoon than flying kites. It’s the perfect activity for any age group, If you want a real challenge, get a box kite, or a set of fighting kites and maneuver them across the sky in loops and dives! Magnifying glass. Nature is wonderful to the naked eye but watching bugs under a magnifying glass is like entering a world of giants! Get one large enough for all to share. Telescopes. Always fun when camping. Being away from the lights of the city makes the stars more visible. Bring a sky chart and try to identify the constellations! White bedsheet and flashlight. Hang the sheet between two trees, or on the side of your RV and use your light and make shadow animals with your hands. With scissors and paper, cut out all sorts of creatures to create silhouettes. Use those and your hand shadows to create your own plays, or to tell ghost stories. Experiment with size and shapes to get the best results.

Johnston Canyon, Photo Courtesy of Parks Canad

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Experience Ha Ling Peak

Photo Courtesy of Graeme Pole

Immortalized in Rock: Looming west of Canmore, Ha Ling Peak (2408 m) is the northernmost summit of Éhagé Nakoda Range. This translates to “the last Nakoda,” and recounts the legend of a warrior who was transformed into rock so that he could stay on Earth after all others left. When the lighting is just right on the cracks and crags of Ha Ling Peak, you may discern the outline of this man, the last Nakoda, looking north. It is only fitting that the other officially named peak of the Éhagé Nakoda Range, Mt Lawrence Grassi, commemorates yet another man of the Earth – a Canmore miner, an Italian immigrant, and railway worker, who built many trails in the Rockies in the 1920s and 1930s. A Sure Bet: Ha Ling was a cook who, in 1896, accepted a 50 dollar bet that he could not climb this mountain in less than ten hours and plant a flag on its summit. Ha Ling reportedly began his climb from town at 7:00am and was back for a late lunch. The flag was too small to be seen from town. Next day, Ha Ling led a party of skeptics to the summit where he planted a larger pennant beside its predecessor and collected on the bet – a fortune in that time.

A century later, the peak was swirling in controversy. Locals had long known the mountain as Chinaman’s Peak, and that became official in 1980. In 1989, Chinese Canadians began to voice offence. The issue simmered for eight years until the Alberta Historic Resources Board held two public meetings, one in Calgary, one in Canmore, to hear submissions. The overwhelming response was that the name, Chinaman’s Peak, was derogatory. The Board rescinded the name and a year later made the name Ha Ling Peak official. Trailhead: These days, for those who are fit mountain hikers, it is relatively straightforward to retrace Ha Ling’s route to the summit. Park at the Goat Creek Day Use area, 8.8 km from downtown Canmore, and 5.2 km past the Nordic Centre. The trail begins across the road. The trails to Ha Ling Peak are being rebuilt in 2019. In terms of hiking experience, about all that you can expect on a trail that gains 743 m in 3.9km is a solid workout. You certainly get that, as do the members of Canmore’s athletic crowd, for whom the outing is a training ground.

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Experience Ha Ling Peak As you break through treeline, views open up over the Spray Valley and into Goat Creek valley. On a clear day, the skyline view north will include Mt. Temple (3544m) and some of the Wenkchemna Peaks near Moraine Lake. The track scrapes over shale and small ledges to “the saddle,” at the 3.6 km mark. The route to the summit swings northeast (left). Straight ahead to the southeast, a track leads to “Miner’s Peak”. The final 300m is a steep, diagonal grind. To your right, the world falls away into the Bow Valley, revealing a panoramic vista, from Lac des Arcs in the southeast, to near Cascade Mountain in the north. The principal summit of Mt. Rundle (2980m) rises above the minor summits on its south ridge. Alpine cinquefoil and purple mountain saxifrage brighten the gray limestone of the summit. Least chipmunks may make

raids on your lunch. Please do not feed them or throw anything over the east face. Climbers may be below. If you are comfortable in high places and if the day is fair, you might want to tag the summit of “Miner’s Peak” (0.6 km round-trip from “the saddle”, with 50 m elevation gain) before taking the plunge back to the trailhead. Grassi’s Handiwork If you would like to explore above Canmore without tackling the heights, try the Grassi Lakes trail. Park at the Grassi Lakes Day Use Area, 1 km past the Nordic Centre. Lawrence Grassi built much of this 4.2 km loop in the 1920s. It ascends steeply and along cliff edges to the twin lakes at the base of a limestone wall. En route, you have many fine views of Canmore and the Bow Valley. By: Graeme Pole

Caution when hiking to Ha Ling Peak: Fall risk! Avoid this trail when it is windy, when the summit is cloud-capped, when electrical storms are forecast, or when the track is icy. The last 300 m of trail is unmaintained. Take great care at the summit. In 2018, Alberta Parks implemented a full mountain closure in order to realign the Ha Ling Peak hiking trail. We anticipated that their work would be completed by the time of printing, but the closure is still in effect. Until it is lifted, we recommend these 3 options in the area as great alternatives: the East End of Rundle Mountain, Grassi Lakes or Goat Creek.

Photo Courtesy of Tanya Koob

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Photo Courtesy of Tanya Koob

Experience Kananaskis Valley

EMERGENCY If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police, or Mountain Rescue assistance, call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

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Experience Kananaskis Village The Kananaskis Valley has it all!

To Hwy #40

Have a real western experience at Boundary Ranch, treat the kids to a heli tour, or spend a night at Sundance Lodges in a real tipi, or enjoy one of the fine resorts in the region. Did you know that the Mt Kidd RV Park is open year round?

Village Maintenance Staff Housing

Bill Milne Paved Trail (barrier free)

Car Car Car

Tennis Courts

TerraceTrail (unpaved)

Group Camping (Tent Only)

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Activity Pad

Restaurant Store Amphitheatre Canoe Launch

Viewpoint #4

Viewpoint #5

Stoney Trail

High Level Trail

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Troll Falls Trail

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Ribbon Creek

Ribbon Creek Trail R

Link Trail

Terrace Trail

Distance in metres

Mt. Lorette Ponds

Beaver Ponds Hay Meadow Trail

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(Trail Damaged Closed)

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Village Rim Trail (barrier free)

Sundance Lodges

Nakiska Troll Falls Hidden Trail

Firepit

Viewpoint #2

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Groups

Motel/Hotel

Outhouse

Viewpoint #3

Ruthie’s Trail

Golf Course

Village Pond & Plaza

Village Rim Link (barrier free)

Sportsfield

Group Camping

Interpretive Trail

Downhill Ski Area

Gas Station

Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge

Viewpoint #1

Skating Rink

Day Use Area

Centennial Ridge Trail Coal Mine Trail

Centennial Drive

Playground

Sunburst Trail

(Closure Period)

Village Centre & Post Office

Camping (Vehicle Access)

Hostel

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Bus

Come back in the winter for snowshoeing, cross-country, and downhill skiing at Nakiska. For free trail maps of the area visit ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library

Equestrian Facility

John Palliser Building

Helipad

Guide books, coffee, snacks, gifts and public washrooms can be found at Kananaskis Village retailers. Need gear? Stop at Kananaskis Outfitters for all your clothing and rental needs.

Camping (Tent Only)

Hiking/Biking Trail (barrier free)

Basketball

Skogan Pass Trail

Mount Kidd Manor & Woody’s Pub

Hiking/Biking Trail

Terrace Drive

Raft the Kananaskis River, bike the many paved and back country trails. Take a day hike to a waterfall or backpack into spectacular wilderness. Golfers will be pleased to learn that the Kananaskis Country Golf Course reopened in May, 2018. To learn more, see Andrew Penner’s golf story on pg 26.

Boat Launch

Kovach Trail

Kananaskis Village

Kananaskis Emergency Services Centre Bill Milne Paved Trail

Visit the Information Centres for updates, maps may not reflect current changes

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Easy Hikes in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Chester Lake, 4.0 km Trailhead - East side of the Smith-Dorrien Trail (Road 742), 44 km south of Canmore Lakes abound in the limestone high country of Kananaskis. Many are set in remote valleys. This well-beaten path through forest and meadows leads to a beautiful tarn in a more open setting. It’s a great hike for birding and for botany. The wild flower displays of early summer can be superb, especially the blooms of glacier lilies near the lake.

Rawson Lake, 3.9 km Trailhead - In Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, at the Upper Kananaskis Lake Day Use Area Two lakes bookend this outing; one a massive reservoir, the other a jade gem nestled in a deep limestone pocket. Between them you climb through a tract of dense subalpine forest. Split log boardwalks span wet areas as you near the lake shore. Snow can linger until mid-July - which makes this a great place for wildflowers that prefer the cool and damp: white globeflower, alpine buttercup, and evergreen violet. Mt. Sarrail (3174 m) is the backdrop at the lake.

Photo courtesy of John Den Hoed

Elbow Lake, 4.0 km loop Trailhead - East side of Kananaskis Trail (Hwy 40), 61.7 km south of Hwy 1 Elbow Pass is a gentle break in the ragged limestone wall on the east side of the Kananaskis Valley. The road-width trail makes a quick ascent, crossing the pass to where you make the circuit of Elbow Lake. Mt. Rae (3225 m), named for a 19th century Arctic explorer, rises to the southwest. Listen for the calls of all three of the Rockies’ thrush species: Swainson’s thrush, hermit thrush, and varied thrush. You may also hear white-crowned sparrows and yellow-rumped warblers.

Ptarmigan Cirque, 4.4 km loop Trailhead - West side of Kananaskis Trail (Hwy 40), in Highwood Pass, 66.9 km south of Hwy 1 It is a miniature version of hundreds of other glacial valleys. Plants and animals cling tenaciously to life; the hallmark of ice is everywhere. The bedrock reveals the fossilized remains of lifeforms that lived in ancient seas. Walk north from the parking area on a gravelled path through Highwood Meadows. Cross Hwy 40 and climb through a subalpine forest. A cirque is a bowl-shaped valley eroded by a glacier. The white tailed ptarmigan (TAR-mih-gan) is a ground-dwelling grouselike bird. Its feathers change colour to white in winter. Photo and Story By: Graeme Pole

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Experience Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Located between the Highwood Area and Spray Valley, this park straddles Hwys 40 and 742 and boasts some of the finest camping and wilderness hiking experiences in the Rockies. Hundreds of kilometres of hiking, interpretive, and mountain biking trails, as well as paved bike trails await your summer

exploration. In the winter, you can rediscover many of these same trails on snow shoes or on cross-country skis. For your summer hiking pleasure, may we suggest the Four Easy Hikes on the facing page? Before you go, check out the detailed trail maps at ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

Big

EMERGENCY If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police, or Mountain Rescue assistance, call 9-1-1. Tell the operator you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country.

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Easy Hikes off the Highwood Trail

Cat Creek, Courtesy of Jeremy Klager

PickleJar Lakes, Courtesy of Tanya Koob

Highwood Trail is one of the best kept secrets in Kananaskis for local hikers, fishermen, and camping enthusiasts. While tourists flock to more popular parks in the valley, the scenery in the Highwood is some of the best in southern Alberta. Located an hour south of Calgary off the scenic Cowboy Trail (Hwy 22), Longview is a gateway to the Highwood Trail. Head southwest from the town Longview on Hwy 541 to Highwood Junction. Make your way northwest along Hwy 40, or travel south on Hwy 940 towards the town of Coleman. Both of these directions offer scenic driving loops and some of the prettiest hiking trails to be found in Kananaskis. Cat Creek The day use area is located approximately 3 km north of the Highwood Junction on Hwy 40. A short 4 km return hike takes you to a lovely set of waterfalls along Cat Creek. The trail is relatively easy. It’s a hike the whole family can enjoy. When you’re finished playing at the waterfall, return to the day use area for a wiener roast at the fire pits provided. The picnic area is beside the Highwood River, providing entertainment for any children who’d enjoy throwing rocks in the river. Lower Cataract Creek This is another gem of a hike. You won’t find many others on this trail. It is perfect when you want to enjoy a quiet day in the mountains. To reach the trailhead, take Hwy 940 south from the Highwood Junction for 13 km until you reach the Cataract Creek Campground and day use area. It is a good spot to stage an adventure but arrive early to secure a weekend campsite.

Lower Cataract Creek offers a mixture of waterfalls, quiet pools, and pebble beds for children to play in. For a day hike, on unofficial trails take the 7 km trip to the upper falls. This easy trail follows the creek downstream from the campground through an open meadow and a forest on the east side of the creek. Take caution at the falls and stay back from the edge. For a shorter hike, go as far as time allows and double back. However long you decide to hike, route finding skills may be required as this hike is not as straight forward as Cat Creek. Picklejar Lakes This is another beautiful hike accessed off Hwy 40 from the Highwood Junction. The hike starts from the Lantern Creek day use area as you travel west towards Highwood Pass. Parking is on the left side of the highway. Cross the road to start the 4.2 km hike up towards the first lake. From here it’s a short distance to the second and third lakes. With a height gain of 450 metres, this hike is more challenging than Cat Creek and Lower Cataract Creek but makes a great outing for families. Bring your fishing rod if you plan to have a picnic at the first lake. Boulders and rocks provide entertainment for children who want to scramble and play near the lakes as well. In July you’ll be hiking through a colourful display of wildflowers. While the trail to Picklejar Lakes is not considered an official trail, it is easy to follow. Previous hiking experience is highly recommended when hiking on unofficial trails. By Tanya Koob

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Experience Highwood and Cataract Area Located 35 km west of Longview on Hwy 541, it stretches from the boundary of Peter Lougheed Provincial Park to the southern border of Kananaskis Country. Landscapes range from stark high alpine to lush forests and rich grazing lands. Interesting features include the Plateau Mountain Ecological Reserve and the Highwood Road Corridor Wildlife Sanctuary.

Marvel at the golden larch meadows in autumn and come winter, explore by snowmobile on designated trails. Enjoy the great fishing and camping experiences during summer. For your summer hiking, may we suggest the Easy Hikes off the Highwood Trail on the facing page? Check out the detailed summer trail maps at ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

Forestry Trunk Road

(Formerly Hwy. #940)

Forestry Trunk Road

(Formerly Hwy. #940)

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Experience Sheep River Provincial Park Located on Hwy 546, 23 km west of Turner Valley, it offers campgrounds for visitors who arrive by vehicle as well as those discovering the area on horseback. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Sheepâ&#x20AC;? is surrounded by Bluerock Wildland Provincial Park. Experience the vast evergreen forests, breathtaking mountain vistas, rolling foothills, and true wilderness solitude. Come explore on foot, horseback, or mountain bike. The Sandy McNabb Interpretive Trail as a great place to start. This pleasant 1.7 km walk, loops through forest and meadows. Benches at several viewpoints offer scenic panoramas of the Sheep River Valley. Return this winter to enjoy 37 km of groomed cross-country ski trails. Ice skating is also available at the Sandy McNabb Campground and the Sheep River Ranger Station is open yearround. For detailed trail maps, go to: ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

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Experience the Elbow Valley Located 32 km southwest of Bragg Creek, Forget-me-not Pond is a very popular family picnic area and destination for avid bicycle riders. Stretch your legs and enjoy a very easy stroll around this small emerald gem. Looking for something more adventurous? Try Fullerton Loop, Powderface Ridge, Moose Mountain, or Prairie Creek.

The Elbow Valley offers a variety of picnic sites, campgrounds, and trails, just 30 minutes from Calgary. The variety of trails in this area range from a pleasant hour’s walk, to a trail ride on horseback or an overnight backpack trip that takes you into Sheep River, Sibbald, or Kananaskis Valley. From the picturesque hamlet of Bragg Creek, most will travel west along Hwy 66, on a stairway into the Rocky Mountains. Passing first through grasslands, then aspen parkland and subalpine forest, the road ultimately leads you to views of the majestic high alpine. The wildlife here reflects the terrain’s diversity, from the prairies’ Richardson’s ground squirrel to the grizzly bear and bighorn sheep found at higher elevations.

Another popular area, also used year-round is simply called West Bragg Creek. Instead of taking Hwy 66 however, take Township Road 232 west from the hamlet. For a detailed trail map go to: ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library The McLean Creek Off-Highway Vehicle Zone has trails and campground facilities designed especially for those wishing to explore on trail motorbikes, quads, snowmobiles and 4-wheel drive vehicles.

Be sure to visit Elbow Falls. The paved trail offers spectacular views and interpretive signs explain the formation of the falls.

(Bragg Creek Area new trails not shown)

E D G

Falls

RI N O ES SI PR M

w Tr ail

MOUNT QUIRK

Trail

Hog's Back Trail

Winter Gate

Fisher Creek

Curley Sands Trail

Creek Trail Groups

Mesa Butte

North ALLSMOKE Volcano Fork MTN. Ridge

to Millarville, Turner Valley, Black Diamond, Calgary

Winter Gate

North Fork

549

9999 Trail Ware Creek

Ware Trail Creek Death Valley

Bluerock Wildland Provincial Sheep River Park Gorge Provincial Park

Tombstone

Trail

Creek

to Turner Valley

Sandy McNabb

Elbow Pa ss

Threepoint Trail

Little E lbo

McLean Creek

rk Fo rth No Trail

THREEPOINT MTN.

Winter Gate Groups

Paddy's Flat

oa kR

FORGETMENOT MTN.

Trail

E Big

il Tra

McLean Pond

McLean Creek OHV Public Land Use Zone

n. Mt int po

w lbo

Allen Bill

River Cove

Riverview Trail

ree Th

BANDED PEAK

Winter Gate

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park

Big Elbow

ee Cr an

Forgetmenot Pond

[Restricted Dates]

758

T O EN M ET GE RG RID

Mount Romulus

Gooseberry

BRAGG CREEK

Groups

ild

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park

MOUNT ROMULUS

Cobble Flats

Elb

Little Elbow

to TransCanada (#1) Highway

Elbow Sulphur Beaver River Springs Launch Lodge Trail

ce fa er ail wd Tr Po dge Ri

Nihahi Creek Trail Nihahi Ridge Trail MOUNT FULLERTON [Restricted Dates]

Fullerton Loop Trail

Station Flats

Gate

Beaver Flats

E AC RF DE W GE PORID

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park

eek Powderie Cr face Elbow Prair FallsYear Tr Round ail Gate Trail Prairie Link Prairie Creek Trail Winter

Creek

Elbow Valley Information Centre

Diamond T Loop

Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park

MOUNT REMUS

Cree Ford il Tra

[Restricted Dates]

Moose Mountain

Ings’ Mine

Ford Creek Trail

MOUNT EVAN-THOMAS

MOOSE MOUNTAIN

Powderface Trail (road)

Bragg Creek Provincial Park

Township Road #232

o w Trail

FIRE LOOKOUT

Elbow Sheep Wildland Provincial Park

FISHER PEAK

Sibbald Area

Volcano Ridge

If you require Fire, Ambulance, Police, or Mountain Rescue assistance, call 9-1-1. Tell the operator MOUNT you have an emergency BRYANT in Kananaskis Country.

MOUNT McDOUGALL

West Bragg Creek

To m

EMERGENCY

Legend pg 43 Campground Directory pg 66

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Campground#rediscoverkananaskis Directory Bow River 12 Three Sisters Lac Des Arcs 5,6 Bow Valley 5,6,9,17 Willow Rock 5,9,12,16 Sundance Lodges Mt. Kidd R.V. Park 1,5,6,19 Eau Claire 5,12 Sibbald Lake 5,7 Dawson Equestrian Canyon 5,7 Elkwood 5,6,7,9,17 Boulton Creek 6,7,9,16,17 Lower Lake 5,13 Mt. Sarrail 12 Interlakes Spray Lakes West 7,12 Beaver Flats Gooseberry 5 Little Elbow 6 Little Elbow Equest. 4,6 McLean Creek 5,6,9,18 Paddy’s Flat 5 Mesa Butte Equest. 4 North Fork Fisher Creek Bluerock Bluerock Equest. 4 Sandy McNabb 5,18 Sandy McNabb Equest. 4,18 Cataract Creek Etherington Creek 6 Etherington Creek Equest. 4 Greenford Indian Graves Regular 5,10,11,14 Indian Graves Equestrian 3,5,10,11,14 Strawberry Regular & Equestrian 4 Burnt Timber 7 Fallen Timber South 7 North Ghost 7 Waiparous Creek 7 Ghost Reservoir 2 Red Deer River North 7 Red Deer River South 7 James-Wilson 7,15, Fallen Timber North 7 Cartier Creek 7, Spring Hill RV Park, Cochrane springhillrvpark.com | 403-932-2010 Open Year Round | 121 Sites | Fees: $42 Ammenities: Flush Toilets, Showers, Sani Dump, Disabled Access, Firepits. Located 7km north of Cochrane. See page 43 for more information Bow Rivers Edge Campground, Cochrane info@bowriversedge.com | 403-932-4675 Open Apr. 1 - Nov. 1 | 144 Sites | Fees: $45-$50 Ammenities: Flush Toilets, Showers, Sani Dump, Disabled Access, Firepits 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

$28/$40 66 $26 36 $26 28 $26/$40 173 $26/$33 124 $31.50 30 $32.50/41/43/48 229 $26 51 $26 134 $26 10 $26 50 $26/$40 130 $26/$39 118 $26 95 $26 44 tent $26 48 $26 50 $26 55 $26 85 $26 94 $32 46 $26/$33 170 $26 98 $33 15 $26 34 $26 30 $26 66 $33 17 $33 112 $39/$40 41 $26 102 $26 61 $33 10 $26 13 $26 32 $26 6 $26/$33 20 $308 30 $308 55 $308 169 $308 53 $26 80 $308 14 $308 50 $308 17 $308 34 $20 12

59 131 34 35 88 69 • 35 96 112 21

Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site pc.gc.ca/rockymountainhouse | 1-403-845-2412 Open May 16 - Sept 2; Thurs - Sun: Sept 5 - 29 43 Sites | Fees: $35-$120 Ammenities: Flush Toilets, Showers, Interpretive Program, Firepits Camp at the national historic site! Variety of options from Heritage Camping in Tipi’s and Trapper tents, to un-serviced RV camping and walk-in tenting on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River.

Discount of 10% to all senior citizens (65 years and older). Discount of $2.00 to Alberta seniors. Plus $6.00 per corral (will accommodate 2 horses). Price includes fee for two horses, each additional horse $6.00. Playground available. Reservations taken with $12.00 reservation fee (includes GST). Opening dates subject to snow levels. Price includes firewood.

9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

Coin operated showers available. Firewood for sale off service vehicle. Off season reservations may be considered. Food lockers available for cyclists. Walk-in tenting sites closed. Reservation fees is $ 5. Cancellation policy: no refunds but reschedule to another date without additional costs, provided notification received for weekends before Friday noon.

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403-673-2163 403-673-2163 1-877-537-2757 1-877-537-2757 403-673-2163 403-591-7122 403-591-7700 403-591-7226 403-673-2163 403-673-2163 403-591-7226 1-877-537-2757 1-877-537-2757 403-591-7226 403-591-7226 403-591-7226 403-591-7226 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 1-877-537-2757 1-877-537-2757 1-877-537-2757 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 403-949-3132 403-591-7226 1-877-537-2757 403-591-7226 403-591-7226 403-995-5554 403-995-5554 403-591-7226 403-637-2198 403-637-2198 403-637-2198 403-637-2198 403-851-0766 403-637-2198 403-637-2198 403-637-2198 403-637-2198 403-637-2198

Clearwater Trading, Caroline clearwatertrading.ca | 403-722-2378 Open Year Round | 47 Sites | Fees: $25-$35 Ammenities: Flush Toilets, Showers, Sani Dump, Firepits. Proud to offer you a separate, private venue for all your events’ needs. Call us today! Check us out on Facebook @ clearwatertradingevents Adanac Adventures, Crowsnest Pass adanacadventures.com | 403-399-2331 Open Year Round | 10 Sites | Fees: $25 Ammenities: Firepits 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.

Reservation ONLY. Power is 15 amp only. Discount for 2nd unit in a power and water site is $4/day. Discount for 2nd unit in a power site is $2/day. All reservation changes are subject to a non-refundable change fee of $5.

All open dates and prices subject to change

TAKE THE BITE OUT OF CAMPING

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM MOSQUITOES AND TICKS Visit off.ca for more details

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Photo Courtesy of Mike Parker, Taken at Elbow Falls

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Experience Sheep River Provincial Park

Easy Hikes off the Highwood Trail