Head to the Heart Creek Trail for a Family Winter Hike

The days are getting longer here in Calgary and it's a perfect time to head out for a winter hike. The weather's also starting to warm up a bit and it's time to get in your winter hiking before the snow starts to melt and the spring season descends upon us.

The Heart Creek Trail is one of the best hiking places to visit during the summer and winter. It has an elevation gain of 100 m, which makes it suitable for young and old alike.

If you've ever wondered why so many vehicles are parked on the east side of Canmore on the trans Canada Highway, it's because families, couples and individuals have stopped there for some quick hiking. There is an easy hike available up Heart Mountain along with plenty of rock climbing.

If you're looking for something easy and fun you can follow the creek trail. This is a quick 2 to 3 kilometer journey with seven easy crossings that lead to a small waterfall once you've hit your final destination at the canyon's end.

It's a beautiful hike with the Heart Creek water flowing peacefully through the sculptured snow. The forest is evergreen in nature and at times you feel like you're walking through a winter wonderland.

On the Mount McGillivray side you'll be facing rock walls that are used for rock climbing during the summer months. For the adventurous, ice seeps can be climbed on the Heart Mountain side.

Once you hit the end of the trail you see a memorial bench and see the waterfall. After a few brief moments you may want to start taking back to take in all of the glory that you may have not fully taken in on the first way in.

Since you're so close to Canmore you may want to stop at one of their cafés or restaurants to grab a hot chocolate or a meal before making the 45 minute trip back to Calgary. This is a great way to end the day after a long hike with the family in the remaining crisp winter day that will sound be just a memory as the days of spring approach.