10 Amazing Things to Do in Bragg Creek All Year Long

Whether you're a day-tripper looking to escape the city's clutches or a weekend warrior ready to embrace your inner mountain goat, Bragg Creek's got you covered. From trails that'll make your Fitbit feel inadequate to boutiques that'll charm the socks right off your feet (good thing they sell those, too), this little slice of Alberta heaven has a knack for turning simple day trips into epic adventures.

View Elbow Falls

Unlike many other awe-inspiring natural attractions, this waterfall is easily accessible. Elbow Falls is less than an hour’s drive from Calgary and minutes from the hamlet of Bragg Creek. A stunning spectacle of cascading waters carving through ancient rock formations, it’s a must-see for nature lovers. You won’t believe how clear and turquoise the water gushing over those smooth rocks is. With well-maintained paths and viewing platforms, Elbow Falls accommodates everyone, including those with strollers or mobility challenges.

After admiring the falls, strike out on foot along a network of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through the surrounding evergreen forests. And don’t discount a winter visit! The falls freeze into ethereal ice formations in this crystallized playground.

Play paintball

For the ultimate adrenaline rush set against the backdrop of Alberta's rolling foothills, sprint towards a paintball session in Bragg Creek. Bragg Creek Paintball provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in both the game and the great outdoors. Expect your senses to heighten as you navigate through the wilderness, ears attuned to every snapping twig that might betray your opponent's position. The region’s dense woodlands and varied terrain provide ample natural cover and unlimited opportunities for stealth.

Whether you're a seasoned player or a first timer, you’re sure to emerge from the field with a racing heart, paint-splattered gear, and a grin that won't fade. After an intense session, unwind at the large picnic area. Guests are welcome to bring their own food for grilling on the propane BBQs.

Camp and off-road at Mclean Creek Provincial Recreation Area

If you like camping, you’ll love the large campground found here. It offers unserviced and power options for tenters and RVs and operates year-round. Mclean Creek Provincial Recreation Area is particularly renowned for its extensive network of off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails, which are open from May 1 to November 30. It’s one of the closest riding areas to Calgary, making it a mecca for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts.

For a more tranquil experience, try fishing in the area's numerous streams and ponds or explore miles of scenic trails by foot or bike. During winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

Go for ice cream

Could there be a sweeter ending to a day spent in the mountains than by savouring a creamy scoop? We don’t think so. Situated in the plaza, Frontier Ice Cream & Candy is one of those charming old-fashioned shops that serves up a side order of nostalgia in addition to decadent treats. Sporting a rainbow of flavours (over 60 of them!) from Foothills Creamery, plus a crazy amount of specialty candy, get ready to be taken on a very worth-it sugar high.

If the warm, toasty scent of freshly made cones makes your stomach aflutter, Ida May’s Ice Cream & Emporium is your go-to. House-made waffle cones plus over 40 ice cream flavours are on offer. This local institution also sports a vintage steam tractor that’s always primed for selfie action.

Explore Bragg Creek Provincial Park

Straddling the banks of the Elbow River, this compact yet diverse park sports lush forests, meandering trails, and crystal-clear waters that attract outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Adventure seekers will find themselves spoiled for choice in Bragg Creek Provincial Park. From leisurely strolls to more challenging treks, hikers can explore a network of scenic trails that cater to all skill levels.

Anglers can cast their lines into the Elbow River, known for its abundant trout population. Rent bikes from Cycle 22x or go on a guided biking or cross-country ski adventure with Outbound Elements. Hankering for a more relaxed experience? The park's day-use areas are perfect for picnicking, bird watching or simply soaking in the serene wilderness.

Try golfing

Two fantastic golf courses draw golfers from around the world. Both Redwood Meadows Golf & Country Club and Wintergreen Golf and Country Club are 18-hole championship golf courses, mere minutes from Bragg Creek. Both courses are encircled by tall forests, the rolling foothills and picture-perfect views of the Canadian Rockies.

Located within the Tsuut'ina Nation, Redwood Meadows offers a more traditional, parkland-style course with tree-lined fairways and natural water hazards. The relatively flat course features well-bunkered greens and strategically placed hazards. Meanwhile, Wintergreen is renowned for its challenging terrain, with dramatic elevation changes, undulating fairways and water hazards that demand strategic play. In this rugged, mountainous setting, a mix of open and wooded holes are ready to test your skills.

Go on an epic picnic

Forgetmenot Pond is a hidden gem situated in Little Elbow Provincial Recreation Area. While small, the jewel-toned body of water delivers such a pretty setting that it seems plucked straight from a postcard. As the seasons change, so does the pond's allure – from the vibrant greens of summer to the golden hues of autumn to the sparkling white of winter.

Anglers can try to catch rainbow trout in the stocked pond, while photographers will find endless inspiration all around. This day-use area features several well-maintained picnic spots —just the spot for a leisurely lunch. As a bonus, liquor is permitted at designated picnic sites. There’s also a short, accessible trail around the pond for an easy post-picnic stroll.

Gear-up for mountain biking

From thrilling single-track to laid-back cross-country, there are countless ways to crush the trails in Bragg Creek. This area is renowned for its diverse terrain, offering everything from flowy paths to challenging, technical descents. Experienced bikers will want to suss out Sugar Mama, a technical trail of steep sections and tight turns. Beginners can look to Braggin' Rights or East Crystal Line for relatively smooth rides with minimal elevation gain. For convenience, you can't beat the extensive Moose Mountain trail network accessed from one parking lot. Trails in West Bragg Creek are meticulously kept by the Bragg Creek Trails Association, which offers complimentary geo-referenced maps.

Shop and dine at Bragg Creek Plaza

One of the easiest and most beloved things to do in Bragg Creek is exploring Bragg Creek Plaza. Situated in the heart of Bragg Creek, the plaza is filled with antique shops, old-school mercantile and art collectives. If you’re in the mood to shop, there’s plenty of cute boutiques to suss out, like The River Dragonfly. Book lovers will want to browse the 40,000 titles at the Best Little Wordhouse in the West.

For light bites, the Bragg Creek Cafe & Baking Co. is a small batch bakery dishing up hot breakfasts, lunches and pastries. For something more substantial, consider lunch or dinner at The Italian Farmhouse. Reminiscent of a European countryside villa, the vibe is rustic and the food is classic and hearty. (Go for the local Wagyu beef ravioli!) Work off the carbs at The Heart of Bragg Creek, a wholesome yoga studio and café.

Hit the trails

The Bragg Creek area is a hiker's paradise, with gentle walks through aspen groves and challenging ascents with panoramic mountain views. For those new to hiking or families with young children, the Fullerton Loop is an easy trail with minimal elevation gain yet delivers sweeping mountain views. There’s also Beaver Flats Interpretive Trail, a short but immersive stroll that showcases the area's rich ecosystems and wildlife.

Experienced hikers might tackle Prairie Mountain, a challenging out-and-back route that rewards with breathtaking views of the Elbow River Valley and the Rockies. Whatever route you choose, the incredible views and potential for wildlife sightings around every bend promise an unforgettable hiking experience.