This waterfall-filled provincial park is just a short drive from Calgary

Sometimes the best hikes don’t require full hiking boots, a packed lunch, or a whole day plan. Just outside Cochrane lies Big Hill Springs Provincial Park, a small but scenic spot that is known for its flowing spring water, easy walking trails, and gorgeous waterfall views.

A nice escape from the city

According to Travel Alberta, Big Hill Springs is best known for its short, easy loop trail that leads visitors along a forest path and through a series of small waterfalls.

The hike itself is relatively short and beginner-friendly, making it a great hike for families, casual walkers, or anyone who wants a low-effort outdoor escape from the city. Along the way, there are plenty of wooden bridges, shaded spots, and viewpoints where you can stop and take in the sound of the rushing water.

I was a bit shocked that I only came across this park last weekend. As someone who isn’t the biggest fan of hiking, I found this walk so easy and way more accessible than I expected. There are two different trail options you can take, and I decided to take both.

Each trail is short and offers a unique perspective on the springs. The south trail takes you right up close to one of the nearest waterfalls, while the north trail takes you up to a lookout point over the treetops and surrounding landscape.

What to know before you go

Because of its easy access and short trails, the park can get quite busy on the weekends and in the warmer months. With that being said, it’s best to arrive earlier in the day, especially since the parking lot is quite small and tends to fill up quickly.

The park doesn’t have extensive facilities, so visitors are encouraged to bring drinks, snacks, and proper footwear.

Big Hill Springs is the perfect option when you want to get out of the city without committing to a full hiking day. It’s nothing over-the-top, just calm water, short trails and a really nice change of pace. And it’s safe to say, it definitely won’t be my last time stopping by this spot.

So know that you don’t have to drive all the way to the mountains to experience a beautiful waterfall!

When: Open year-round
Time: Open 24 hours
Where: Township Road 292 and Range Road 40, near Cochrane, Alta.
Cost: Free

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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