Awesome Summer Family Adventures in Kananaskis Valley

Easy hikes, water fun and ranch life near Calgary

In Alberta, summer outdoor play is epic and easy. Family road trips, starlit campfires, picnics, sandy toes and skipping stones are some of the season's simple pleasures that create unforgettable childhood memories. On the doorstep of Calgary and the mountain town of Canmore, Kananaskis Valley is the epitome of family-friendly natural adventures. Sky-high peaks, towering forests, waterfalls and clear blue lakes are just a few of the things you'll see.

You'll get that far-from-it-all feeling in beautifully rugged Kananaskis, which also offers plenty of comforts. From gentle mountain trails with bold views to splash-worthy, picnic-perfect ponds, here are five of the region's top activities to check off your family's bucket list this summer.

Waterfall hike to Troll Falls

Just outside the Nakiska Ski Area, Troll Falls is one of the most popular family- and dog-friendly hikes in Kananaskis. The easy 3.4 km (2.1 mi) roundtrip loop is mostly flat forested terrain with an impressive waterfall. The falls' cool mist is also a welcome surprise on warmer days. Hike back the same way or take the short detour to Hay Meadows for a fantastic view of the Kananaskis River and the trio of soaring peaks: Old Baldy, Wasootch and Kananaskis.

Explore Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge

This easy half kilometre (0.3 miles) forested trek gives families a thrilling, magical sight. The Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge is a 250 m (820 ft) engineering delight that stretches high above its namesake waterway that winds through the deep, dramatic canyon far below. Crossing the wobbly bridge is a thrilling, adventure for kids of all ages. Giggles guaranteed. Think of it as a dangling treetop playground designed for intrepid mini-mountaineers. The trailhead is located about one kilometre (0.6 mi) past the Black Prince Day-Use Area, off the Smith Dorrien Trail.

Picnic at Wedge Pond

Pack your cooler, water toys and bathing suits for an afternoon at the beach. Located just past the Mount Kidd RV Park, off of Kananaskis Trail (Hwy 40), Wedge Pond is a hidden gem offering lots of family fun. Begin by exploring the one kilometre (0.6 mi) tree-lined trail, which loops the pond. Let the kids find the perfect picnic spot. Then slather on the sunscreen, lay back and soak in the views of Fortress Mountain, reflected in the calm, clear turquoise water. The shallows are great for splashing around and hunting for frogs, while paddleboarding, kayaking and fishing are popular in the deeper parts of the pond.

Paddling on Barrier Lake

Barrier Lake, a picturesque man-made reservoir flanked by Mount Baldy, is one of Kananaskis Valley's most iconic, show-stopping scenes. Easily accessed from Hwy 40, the lake's day-use area tends to draw a crowd, especially in summer. However, given most visitors stick to the shoreline, you just need to get out on the water for a private family escape. Barrier Lake Boat Rentals, operated by the adventure tour company Kananaskis Outfitters, offers hourly canoe, paddleboard and tandem kayak rentals. You'll want to bring a waterproof camera for family pictures to photograph the lake's wondrous backdrop.

Trail ride at Boundary Ranch

Take the kids for a Canadian Rockies western adventure at Boundary Ranch, located just up from Kananaskis Village, on the opposite side of Hwy 40. If you're new to horseback riding, the Buffalo Loop tour is the best choice. The leisurely one-hour guided experience is a picturesque, introductory trail ride that's popular with families. The ranch's two-hour Ridge Ride offers double the fun and sweeping views of the Kananaskis Valley. Better yet, book this tour with the BBQ Steak Lunch add-on for a cowboy-style feast with all the fixings and ice-cream topped ranch-baked pie.

Visit for the day, book a weekend getaway at the family-friendly Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, or set up camp in Mount Kidd RV Park to extend your exploration of Alberta's incomparable Kananaskis Valley.