Here are some of our picks for the best dog-friendly trails in K-country, so you and your furry friend can enjoy some of the best mother nature has to offer.

Grotto Canyon Trail

 

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Located approximately an hour’s drive from Calgary, the trailhead can be accessed by following the Trans Canada highway west from Calgary, taking exit 114 before following Bow Valley Trail.

Grotto Canyon Trail is not just home to 7.1 km of remarkable landscapes – partway up the 2.5 hour out-and-back trail is a historic sight containing ancient hieroglyphs.

Some time between 500 and 1300 years ago, humans left records of their travels on canyon walls using ochre paint, depicting themselves alongside animals and playing instruments. 

As you and your dog traverse the trails’ towering rock walls, you can imagine prehistoric humans in the very same canyon – accompanied by man’s earliest best friend, of course.

This trail can get quite busy on weekends, and is best suited for more social dogs during these times. Dogs must be leashed at all times, but they will have a blast climbing the trails’ rocky terrain.

Mount Mann

 

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This 10.1km loop trail is considered to be a moderate challenge, climbing 3.5 hours up Mount Mann. Parking is available by the Sentinal Day Use area off of Highway 541. 

One of the lesser-known gems in Kananaskis, Mount Mann offers a memorable experience. You and your dog will start by crossing the Highwood River before passing through cavernous canyon walls, eventually reaching an awe-inspiring waterfall and summit views.

Furry friends with little legs or subpar swimming abilities may need a lift across the knee-high river. 

Dogs can be off-leash in some areas, so you can both enjoy the freedom that comes alongside exploring nature. Be sure to examine your environment and have a good recall with your dog before letting them off-leash.

Raspberry Ridge Lookout

 

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Raspberry Ridge Lookout is a 9.5 km hike located under 2 hours from Calgary, across from the Cataract Creek Campground off Highway 541. 

The trail is popular among hikers and runners, so you’ll likely see some fellow nature enthusiasts on your journey. You may not notice, but your dog’s nose will surely realize that wildlife also tends to frequent the area. 

This trail is not just stunning, it’s also particularly interesting. Atop the peak is a manned Fire Lookout that keeps an eye on the surrounding Mount Burke and Plateau Mountain. It is one of 100 active fire lookouts in the province.

Dogs must be leashed at all times, but they can join you for a celebratory picnic at the table near the lookout.

Jumpingpound Summit Trail

 

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Mountain views, wooded footpaths, and breathtaking flora and fauna make up this picturesque 6.3 km trail.  Access the trailhead by following the TransCanada Highway to Sibbald Creek Trail before turning left onto Powderface Trail.

Jumpingpound Summit Trail starts at the base of Jumpingpound mountain, named after a steep bank near Jumpingpound Creek that was historically used as a buffalo jump. 

The out-and-back trail is the shortest available path to the summit, taking most hikers about 2.5 hours to complete. Visits during the summer season will have you and your pup sniffing and admiring a plethora of fully bloomed wildflowers.

Dogs must be leashed at all times on the trail.

Grass Pass and Gunnery Creek Trail Loop

An 8.9 km loop complete with splendid views of the overlooking Holy Cross and Gunnary mountains, Grass Pass and Gunnery Creek Trail Loop is an hour and 20 min south of Calgary. 

To reach the trailhead, take AB-201, AB-22X W and AB-22 to Main St SW in Turner Valley before turning onto Range Rd 31.

This trail is a popular one known for its bird watching, hiking, and snowshoeing in the winter. You and your dog will be dwarfed by the vast mountain range overhead as you explore endless rolling hills filled with a botanical wonderland of wildflowers and fir trees.

Dogs can be off-leash in some areas, so be sure to keep an eye on them as they explore mother nature’s handiwork. 

Your furry best friend can enjoy the right Kananaskis hike as much as you can. And with the proper planning, you both can get the most out of your chosen hike. See you – and your dogs – on the trails!