10 of the Best Hikes Near Cochrane, Alberta
Parallel to the Bow River with a mountain view to the west, Cochrane lies just outside the city of Calgary. One step closer to the foothills and the Rockies, this growing town is the doorstep to countless trail systems just waiting to be explored.
Here are 10 of the best hikes near Cochrane.
Big Hill Springs Trail
Distance: 1.5 km
Time: 30 minutes
Elevation gain: 70 m
Big Hill Springs Provincial Park is located just 20 minutes from Cochrane. This trail is short and sweet, running parallel to a gurgling stream that leads to quaint waterfall views. The area is particularly ideal for families, with lots of exploring only metres from the parking lot. The day use area is perfect for a morning adventure or some afternoon picnicking.
Black Rock Mountain
Distance: 10 km round-trip
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Elevation gain: 920 m
The adventure to the summit of Black Rock starts before you even get to the trailhead. Located in Waiparous, just west of Cochrane, the area requires a 4×4 vehicle to reach the pullout that acts as a parking lot. The trail starts by winding through charred spruce trees, burned by a wildfire that spread through the area in 2020. If you’re up for the challenge, Black Rock is a rewarding 10-kilometre trek that steadily climbs towards stunning views of Devil’s Head and surrounding peaks.
Elbow Falls
Distance: 1 km
Time: 15 – 30 minutes
Elevation gain: 25 m
Featured in the 2019 film Jumanji: The Next Level, Elbow Falls lies just west of Bragg Creek and 40 minutes from Cochrane. Less of a hike and more of an interpretive walk, the majestic Elbow Falls is still more than a worthwhile destination. Also a day-use area, it’s the perfect spot to set up camp for the day and explore nearby trails.
Yamnuska
Distance: 9.8 km
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Elevation Gain: 878 m
Referred to by locals as “Yam,” you can’t miss this incredible peak that sticks out on the horizon line to the west. Yam has only grown in popularity over the years, leading to several accidents, rescue calls and fatalities. The trail has since been rerouted in places, and updated signage makes it easier to stay on route.
Still, this remains a challenging scramble that should only be attempted if you are well prepared, comfortable with some exposure and weather conditions are ideal. Yam offers incredible views of the Bow Valley below—the effort is well worth it. Be aware that there is a section with chains that requires some serious traversing/scrambling around a ledge. On weekends, the hike can get quite busy and bottlenecked in some areas, so it’s best to get an early start on this one.
Wind Ridge
Distance: 13 km
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Elevation Gain: 877 m
The Wind Ridge trailhead is located near Dead Man’s Flats, an hour from Cochrane. The hike starts out with some easy meandering through a treed section until it opens up into a meadow. In the spring and summer months, this area is dotted with all kinds of wildflowers. Towards the end, the trail gets progressively steeper, leading to a short section of scrambling. Be prepared for wind—it’s called Wind Ridge for a reason.
Canyon Creek Ice Cave
Distance: 13 km round-trip
Time: 2.5 – 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 350 m
Swap summit views for fascinating ice formations on this 13-kilometre, moderate hike. Located right outside Bragg Creek and 40 minutes from Cochrane, this trek is truly a unique one in the area. The first five kilometres takes you along a service road. This section can be easily biked to add a little variety to your day.
Heart mountain
Distance: 13 km
Time: 6 – 8 hours
Elevation Gain: 940 m
This 13-kilometre hike, with some sections of scrambling, will definitely get your heart pumping. While some describe this trail as challenging, the trek is equally rewarding. Views of Dead Man’s Flats and the Bow River below are worth your while. This trail can be hiked in a loop or out-and-back for a shorter version. The trailhead is located about 47 minutes from the town of Cochrane.
Porcupine Ridge
Distance: 10.5 km
Time: 3 – 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 713 m
Typical of many hikes in Kananaskis Country, the Porcupine Ridge trail takes you straight up until you gain the summit. The parking lot lies in the Wasootch Day Use Area (under an hour from Cochrane).This trail requires a little bit of navigation at the start, but once you leave Porcupine Creek, it’s straightforward. There is a very short section of scrambling towards the top, leading the way to incredible views of the surrounding K-Country peaks.
Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park Trails
Distance: 3 – 10 km
Time: 1 – 4 hours
Elevation Gain: 100 – 200 m
If you’re looking for a laid-back stroll or a trail network for your evening run, Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park is an easy choice. Only 10 minutes from the town of Cochrane lies several trails that undulate through the rolling hills that define the area. You’ll also find interpretive signs, highlighting the wildlife and ecosystems at work. Benches and picnic tables encourage hikers to take it slow, while enjoying views of the horizon to the west.
Nihahi Ridge
Distance: 12 km
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Elevation Gain: 800 m
Under an hour from Cochrane, Nihahi Ridge is a gem in Kananaskis country and can be considered an easy scramble. The trailhead lies at Little Elbow Campground (about 50 minutes from Cochrane) and starts off strong with several switchbacks that open up into a meadow. After a short spurt of scrambling, you’ll gain the somewhat exposed ridge. Many hikers stop at this viewpoint, but the real summit requires a trek further along the ridge.