Canadians are rightly proud of their country, and the beauty to be found within. Many surveys have been conducted to find out what Canadians are most proud of. Not surprisingly perhaps, maple syrup appears all the time, but something else usually tops that.
Canada is a country full of rivers, lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains. Its natural beauty is hard to beat at times, and one area stands out immensely. Coming top on many of those surveys is the Canadian Rockies.
The Canadian section of the Rocky Mountains stretches for about 1,000 miles according to Britannica. This section differs from the American Rockies in appearance and geology, but one thing they have in common is that they attract millions of visitors each year.
While there are many activities to be found at different points of the mountain range and its surrounding areas, hiking is one of the most popular. However, some trails are not suitable for children or for young families.
Here are ten different hiking trails that you can take your family on, next time you are visiting the Canadian Rockies.
Family-friendly hikes in Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis Country is close to the town of Canmore and borders Banff National Park too. It lies west and south of Calgary and comes under the province of Alberta. It is also home to some of the most family-friendly hiking trails you could hope for.
Grotto Canyon
One of the easiest hiking trails in Kananaskis is the Grotto Canyon trail. At first appearance, this trail doesn’t seem too attractive, and you won’t get too many photo opportunities for the first 1km.
However, once you have cleared this part of the hike you will soon head into far more picturesque territory. The trail follows the creek upstream which is nestled between two cliffs.
For young hikers, there is a fun game to be had with this trail. Hundreds of years ago, symbols were etched onto the rock to depict animals and humans. These are still visible and spotting them can be an enjoyable part of the hike.
The hike is just over 5km there and back, and some words of caution should be noted. Although this is a family-friendly hike, it should be avoided if the weather is rainy as this can make the trail very treacherous.
Family-friendly hikes in Jasper National Park
There are some epic hikes available to the experienced individual in Jasper National Park, however, these are not for everyone. While one day your children may grow up to tackle mountain trails that lead thousands of feet up, right now something lighter is more appropriate.
Here are a few of the best easy trails in Jasper National Park.
Valley of the Five Lakes
One beautiful area of Jasper is this location with its five emerald and blue-green lakes. Surrounding this area are some very family-friendly trails. Some parts of the trails here could be classed as moderate, but it is mostly an easy trail loop.
This area is popular with hikers who prefer their activity to be not too demanding. The loop around the lakes is 4.5km, and it should be noted that it does get busy.
Saturday Night Lake to Minnow Lake
Jasper National Park has locations that could happily fit into the best hiking and walking holidays in the world. The trek between these can be turned into a three-day hike and would fit into a great camping trip.
While this hike is family-friendly, this one would better suit older children and teenagers perhaps. The distances involved are longer than other hikes here, and there are cyclists and horse riders on the trails too.
One recommended itinerary involves trekking from Saturday Night Lake to Minnow Lake to spend the night. The next day hike back to Saturday Night Lake to camp for a second night. The last day can be used to hike to the trailhead.
The total distance for these hikes is just over 24 km, and some hiking experience would be handy.
Lake Annette
This is a very easy trial, suitable for younger children, and needs no experience. The trail is paved and is accessible by wheelchair too. There are picnic shelters, children’s playgrounds, and a beachfront for the lake. This makes it a popular area for young families, and those looking for more of a stroll than a hike.
The trail is just 2.4km there and back.
Family-friendly hikes in Banff National Park
Banff National Park is another popular area, but is also very beautiful and has a number of excellent trails. If you prefer to have more space and be away from the crowds, you may prefer Jasper.
According to Statista, 4.12 million people visited Banff National Park during the 2019/2020 season. This was despite the restrictions on travel and social distancing, so you can see that Banff is a busy tourist attraction.
Fenlands loop
If you are looking for a little bit of serenity, an undemanding walk, and something that young children can manage, then Fenlands may be it.
This walk involves wide flat trails that make it an easy walk for youngsters and can be done in three-quarters of an hour.
The loop is around 2.1km and can get muddy if there has been rainfall.
Sundance Canyon
If you want a longer hike, and your children are up for it, then Sundance Canyon is a good option. This trail is located past the Cave and Basin Historic Site – also worth a visit – and can be enjoyed on a bike too. The beginning of the trail is paved, before reverting to a natural trail for the last leg. By following the trail until it starts to deviate from the river, you will witness great views of the waterfalls here.
The trail is around 5.5km in total if you turn around as the path leaves the river. It is recommended that the paved part is taken on a bicycle, although this isn’t necessary.
Tunnel Mountain
This is a more moderate hike and is suitable for older children or young ones with some experience. After completing this hike, everyone involved will be able to say they have summited a mountain. Albeit, a smallish one.
The trails here will take you to the top of Tunnel Mountain, and on the way, your party can enjoy sumptuous views of the valley below. The top of the mountain offers two viewpoints for playing ‘who can spot such-and-such’, and taking a well-earned breather.
The hike is just under 5km there and back. This hike could be done easily in the morning.
Family-friendly hikes in Yoho National Park
Nearby to Banff, lies Yoho. This is another part of the Rockies that must be visited, especially as a family.
Laughing Falls
This is an ideal hike to start a camping trip from. The trail will take along the Little Yoho River, from Takakkaw Falls to a lovely, scenic campground.
The trail is just over 4km and is fully suitable for families.
Twin Falls
This hike is better taken by older, more experienced children perhaps. It is a longer hike than Laughing Falls and could be combined with that one as part of a camping/hiking holiday.
If you carry on from Laughing Falls to the Twin Falls campsite, you can extend your hike to nearly 6.5km. While the hike itself is undemanding, the distance might not suit very young children.
Summary
While many people take to the Rockies for some demanding hikes, not everyone wants to reach the summit of Whistler. Even if you don’t have young children, these hikes can be enjoyed by anyone wanting to combine a little exercise with a love of the outdoors.
Out of all the must-do activities in the Canadian Rockies, hiking is one of the top ones. If you enjoy hiking, and trampling about in nature, then what better place to do so than the Rockies? Millions of other people seem to agree.
