Catching a waterfall during the autumn season is pretty idyllic. With orange and red falling leaves blanketing the surface, contrasting with the ice-blue running water, it makes for a spectacular seasonal sight.
Luckily, there are lots of places in and around Calgary where you can take in the view of seasonal waterfalls. These locations are especially beautiful during the fall months, making for a picturesque afternoon in the mountains and beyond.
Calgary is blessed by its proximity to the Rockies, and you’ll want to take advantage of it before the first frost settles on the mountains.
While it might not have the grand nature of the other falls on this list, Reader Rock Garden’s charming water feature is one of the best to catch in the inner city.
Tumbling down a rockery that meanders underneath a wooden bridge, past centennial perennials and a crabapple tree, the waterfall is delicate, captivating and even more beautiful during the autumn months.
When the red fruits of the crabapple tree fall into the nearby water, it makes for a picturesque autumn scene. Take a stroll through this historical garden to see the last of the season before Old Man Winter arrives.
Where: 325 25th Ave. SE
This free, accessible, family-friendly and close-to-Calgary hike is one of the most popular in Banff National Park, which can attract lots of tourists in the summer months.
Towards late September and early October, though, the crowds dissipate significantly, and you can drink in the Upper and Lower Falls with unobstructed views.
You’ll experience the lush canyon, carved by erosion of the limestone rock over many decades, in a new light with hues of red and gold tinting the many trees.
Where: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9
Sheep River Falls is a hop, skip and a jump from the city. With little to no crowds and stunning golden larches brightening the evergreen landscape, it’s a must-visit in the autumn months.
This gentle hike meanders through mountains, and at the summit, there are 360° views looking north, south, east and west.
You’ll get a strong sense of the expanse of Kananaskis country and how the autumn months shape the scenery on this picturesque hike.
Where: Sheep River Rd., Kananaskis, Alta.
Troll Falls in Kananaskis is one of the best family-friendly hikes around, and during the autumn months, you’ll fall in love with the gorgeous scenery.
You’ll see larches and other trees turn a jaw-dropping gold, their leaves falling gently as the branches flutter in the wind.
Troll Falls is a beautiful and rewarding autumn hike that’s worth doing more than once.
Where: Kananaskis, Alta.
One of Alberta’s most dramatic provincial waterfalls is also absolutely gorgeous during the autumn months, with cascading rock and a lush pool at the basin surrounded by natural brush.
The hue of the landscape grows softer during the autumn months, and there are two spots to take in the views of the twin falls.
Lundbreck Falls boasts an ancient history and a rich fossil record, along with an easy trail loop that makes it a scenic destination.
Where: Range Rd. 24B, Lundbreck, Alta.
Wherever you choose to go, you’ll want to plan your trip for sometime in the next few weeks. Soon winter’s chill will change the seasons and the scenery of Alberta’s natural waterfalls once again.
Recent Posts:
This historic reservoir is responsible for Calgary’s fresh drinking water
We crunched the numbers: Here’s all the data on Calgary’s trick-or-treat trends
Em Medland-Marchen
Em is a Staff Writer for Curiocity Calgary. They are passionate about live music, rose gardens, iced coffee, their dogs Bandit and Stanley, and walks along the Bow River.
Read articles
