Big Hill Springs

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.2 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
52 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
10.0
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Big Hill Springs

For a visually stunning hike, try the Big Hill Springs trail in the foothills of Alberta's Rocky Mountains. Trek past a series of small, rushing waterfalls and bubbling springs, all isolated within a beautiful coulee. This kid-friendly trail makes for a fun time for adventurers of all ages!

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Route Description for Big Hill Springs

Big Hill Springs Provincial Park is a fabulous outing, but it can get busy on the weekends. Coming out midweek or early in the morning helps to make it a quieter walk.

Start the Big Hills Springs hike from the parking lot, heading counterclockwise. Walk north from the parking lot, passing over the road and along a path that initially goes along the creek. Enjoy the little waterfalls along the way.

There are a multitude of paths here, so don’t be afraid to explore. As you get near the top, the path enters an aspen forest where you turn left and head uphill. The trail is not overly steep, and little kids should comfortably be able to enjoy it. Once at the top of the hill, the path continues along through the forest.

Follow the path until it heads down. While there are some trails that go straight down, we prefer the gentler routes.

When back at your car, take a trip out into the field south of the car park for a nice, quiet view of the area.

Insider Hints for Big Hill Springs

  • This trail can be a treat in the shoulder season or midweek, but give it a pass on weekends in summer unless coming in the early morning.

Getting to the Big Hill Springs Trailhead

This trail is the furthest from downtown Calgary but worth it! Exit right to on Crowchild Trail SW from 6 Ave SE West and Bow Trail SW. Then, take AB-1A West and Lochend Road/AB-766 North to Range Road 34A in Rocky View County. Follow Range Road 34A until you reach the Big Hill Springs Trail parking lot on the left-hand side.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Big Hill Springs Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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Big Hill Springs Reviews

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