15 Easy Hikes Near Calgary with Scenic Views (includes Map)
If you’re living in or visiting Calgary and craving a breath of fresh mountain air without a strenuous trek, you’re in for a treat. One of the best things about Calgary is how effortlessly it blends urban life with natural beauty. Within an hour or two from the city, you’ll find stunning landscapes, glacial rivers and the kind of peaceful forest trails that make your heart feel a little lighter – all without having to train like you’re summiting Everest.
In this guide, we’re sharing our favorite easy hikes near Calgary, most of which we have explored during our Banff adventures or short morning trips before a cozy lunch in town. Whether you’re new to hiking, bringing along young kids or simply want a relaxing nature escape, these trails offer just the right dose of adventure. 🥾
Best Easy Hikes Near Calgary by Region
To make it easy to plan your next outing, we’ve grouped the hikes by area. All of these are under 2 hours from the city and most are under 6 km round trip with minimal elevation gain.
Hikes in Kananaskis Country (1 hour from Calgary)
1. Troll Falls (4.7 km round trip)
Kananaskis Village | 4.7 km round trip | 227 m elevation | ~1.5 hours
This is one of the most popular easy hikes near Calgary and for good reason. The trail is wide, well-marked, and leads to a charming waterfall that looks magical in both summer and winter. Find details for this hike here.
2. Many Springs Trail (1.6 km loop)
Bow Valley Provincial Park | 1.6 km loop | Flat |~30 minutes
A peaceful boardwalk and dirt trail looping around bubbling natural springs and wildflower meadows, backed by distant mountain views. It’s a hidden gem for birdwatching, especially beautiful in late spring and early summer. Find details for this hike here.
3. Grassi Lakes Trail (3.2 km round trip)
Canmore | 3.2 km round trip | 215 m elevation | ~1 hours
A scenic trail that gently winds its way up to two dazzling turquoise lakes, offering sweeping views and a rewarding finish. From our point of view, this is a must-do for hiking enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Find more details for this hike here.
Hikes in Banff National Park (2 hours from Calgary)
Related Read: If you’re planning to explore Banff and Jasper beyond just hiking, check out our 3 to 7 Day Banff and Jasper Itinerary for a full breakdown of scenic routes, iconic lakes and hidden gems.
4. Fenland Trail (2 km loop)
Near Banff Town | 2 km loop | Flat | ~30 minutes
A hidden gem just minutes from Banff Avenue, this trail winds through lush old-growth forest with boardwalks and bridges crossing tranquil creeks. Great for spotting birds and catching your breath in the shade. Find more details for this hike here.
5. Johnson Lake (3 km loop)
Lake Minnewanka Area | 3 km loop | 70 m elevation | ~45 minutes
This easy lakeside loop gives you mountain views, a chance to dip your toes in cool water, and plenty of picnic spots. It’s ideal for summer or fall mornings when the light dances on the lake’s surface. Find more details for this hike here.
6. Stewart Canyon Trail (6 km round trip)
Lake Minnewanka | 6 km round trip | 230 m elevation | ~2 hours
Cross a wooden bridge at the mouth of Lake Minnewanka and follow a pine-fringed trail that hugs the shoreline. Stewart Canyon feels like stepping into a landscape painting and it’s often blissfully quiet, especially on weekdays. Find more details for this hike here.
7. Lake Louise Lakeshore (4.5 km round trip)
Lake Louise | 4.5 km round trip | 100m elevation | ~1.5 hours
This scenic lakeside trail hugs the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise and ends at the back of the lake, far from the crowds. Perfect for photos and serenity. Find more details for this hike here.
8. Bow Falls Viewpoint (2.7 km round trip)
Banff Town | 2.7 km round trip | 60 m elevation | ~40 minutes
Starting just steps from the iconic Banff Springs Hotel, this short, paved trail leads you to the powerful roar of Bow Falls. It’s an easy and scenic walk perfect with misty views along the way. Find more details for this hike here.
9. Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail (0.8 km round trip)
Moraine Lake | 0.8 km round trip | Minimal elevation | ~20 minutes
Yes, it’s short but the reward is the famous postcard view of the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Come for sunrise or sunset and you’ll feel like you’re in a dream. The trail climbs gently from the lake’s edge to a higher viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the shimmering water below.
You cannot take your personal vehicle – make sure you book a shuttle or a guided tour in advance. Also, Moraine Lake access is usually open after early June until early October!
10. Johnston Canyon to Lower Falls (2.4 km round trip)
Bow Valley Parkway | 2.4 km round trip | ~115 m elevation | ~1 hour
Walk along catwalks over rushing water through a dramatic canyon to reach a stunning waterfall. It’s one of the most popular and beginner-friendly hikes in the park. Find more details for the hike here.
11. Silverton Falls (1.8 km round trip)
Near Castle Junction | 1.8 km round trip | 110 m elevation | ~45 minutes
This lesser-known hike is a hidden gem with a pretty waterfall at the end and hardly any crowds. We enjoyed this peaceful hike during our lunch break when we were working remotely from Banff. Find more details for this hike here.
Hikes within Calgary City Limits
Yes, you don’t even need to leave the city to enjoy nature!
12. Big Hill Springs Trail (1.4 km loop)
Near Cochrane | 1.4 km loop | 70 m elevation | ~30 minutes
A hidden pocket of nature just outside Calgary, this trail winds through gentle hills, trickling waterfalls, and forested bridges. Perfect for a refreshing nature escape. Find details for this hike here.
13. Nose Hill Park Trails (1-6 km options)
North Calgary | Varies on your trail, 1-6 km options | Minimal elevation | 30 minutes – 2 hours depending on the trail you choose
One of the largest urban parks in North America, Nose Hill has prairie views, wide trails, and beautiful sunsets. It’s also great for spotting deer and hawks or just walking your dog with skyline views in the distance.
14. Fish Creek Provincial Park (6.5 km round trip)
South Calgary | 6.5 km round trip | 130 m elevation | ~2 hours
Winding through forests, open meadows, and alongside Fish Creek itself, this is perfect for a relaxed walk or a casual bike ride, with plenty of spots to pause by the water. We like to stop by Annie’s Café for an ice cream or hot chocolate depending on the weather. Find more details for this hike here.
15. Bow River Pathway
Downtown Calgary | Flexible options | Flat | time on your route
Following the river, this paved path is excellent for an easy walk or bike ride with views of the city skyline, peaceful water, and pop-up art. It connects to Prince’s Island Park and St. Patrick’s Island for shaded trails and green space.
Tips for Hiking Near Calgary
- Timing is everything: Start early to avoid crowds, late spring to fall is a good time for hikes. Check beforehand that the trails do not have snow if you are planning a spring time hike.
- Pack layers: Calgary’s weather can change quickly, even on a short trail.
- Footwear matters: You don’t need hiking boots for most of these, but sturdy sneakers are a good idea.
- Download maps: Signal drops often outside the city. We use AllTrails to save offline versions.
- Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and stick to marked paths even the easy ones.
- Park day pass: You’ll need a valid Parks Canada for Banff or Kananaskis Conservation Pass. City trails are free.
- Dog-friendly trails: Most trails welcome leashed dogs. Just bring poop bags and check local signage.
Final Thoughts: Nature is Just Around the Corner
You don’t have to climb peaks or set off on multi-day treks to enjoy the Rockies. Some of our most memorable moments have been on quiet, easy hikes – sipping coffee and strolling by the lakeside, or just walking hand-in-hand with mountain views in the distance.
So lace up your sneakers, grab a snack, and head out. The wild beauty of Alberta is right at your doorstep!
