Elbow Falls 
This trail is a lovely day trip to go on with the whole family. Easy access to the trailhead and cement cut paths make it an extremely leisurely walk. There are also sections at Elbow Falls, where you can walk along the river on the riverbed. Prior to the flood, there were benches and rest areas but those have been washed away, nonetheless, it is a great way to get the kids and grandparents all outdoors! The path leads around the waterfall, allowing for great photo opportunities of the falls, as well as, the amazing rock configurations surrounding it. The Kananaskis area also houses many other great places for camping and hiking.
Date of Adventure: April 2017
Driving To Trailhead: ~30 minutes
Hike Time: ~1 hour
Hike Distance: 1 km
Location: Kananaskis Country
Nearest To: Bragg Creek, AB and Calgary, AB
Advised: Bear country, frequent weather changes. Please check all advisory notices, restrictions, regulations, etc before heading out.
Elbow Falls – What is it?!
Elbow Falls is a quaint little waterfall located in the Kananaskis area. It is a short and easy drive away from Calgary and makes for a lovely family adventure. The great thing about Elbow Falls is also that it can be accessed in the early spring, way before other hikes are open. In addition, it is also a lovely place to go at the end of the season in autumn. So if you can’t wait for the summer hiking season to start, this is a great way to get outdoors!
On your way to Elbow Falls you pass through Bragg Creek. There is a cute plaza of stores, food shops, cafes and gas stations. I would recommend taking a look. On our way there, we stopped to have brunch at an amazing little cafe. If you are a motorcycle lover, then you must stop for a bit to eat here. On our way home, we stopped to have ice-cream in the same plaza area. They had unbelievable choices for ice cream, it is an amazing place to take the whole family.
Elbow Falls – Are We There Yet?
Elbow Falls is located in the Kananaskis are in Alberta, a short drive from Calgary. There are different routes that can be taken to get here from Calgary.
North Calgary
1. You’re best option is to take Highway 1/Trans Canada Highway for 10-15kms.
2. There will be a turnoff on the right hand side for Brag Creek. Take this turnoff onto Highway 22. Drive on this road for about 40kms.
3. You will reach a traffic circle, just continue to travel in the same direction, on the same road.
4. When you arrive at a “T” junction, turn right onto Highway 66. Drive for about another 20kms.
5. The parking lot for Elbow Falls is on the left side of the highway. You have arrived!
South Calgary
1. Take Highway 22X. This will take you all the way to Elbow Falls. The parking lot in on your left once you arrive. You have arrived!
Elbow Falls – Recommendations
Overall, this is a lovely way to get the whole family out of the house. A beautiful little waterfalls awaits at Elbow Falls, with something for everyone to enjoy. There are countless picture opportunities along this walk. Walking along the riverside is always pleasant as well, notice all the interesting rocks that can be found. At the end of the day this is a fun way to kick off the spring and summer season!