So, you’re ready to escape the ordinary and hit the trails, huh? Well, you’ve come to the right place! David Thompson Country is home to beautiful hidden gems for both hiking experts and afternoon strollers alike. Having trouble picking the best trail for you? Check out this guide to discover some of our favourite trails in David Thompson Country, as well as some nearby accommodations for a little added convenience.
Remember: You’re in bear country. Always be aware of your surroundings and take the appropriate safety precautions. Before heading out on your outdoor journey, always prepare for the elements, inform others of your travel plans, and take precautions to avoid getting lost.
Siffleur Falls
We rank this hike as: Good for all skill levels
A crowd favourite. Beginning at the parking lot on Highway 11 at Kootenay Plains, follow the 3.7 km trail towards the North Saskatchewan River. Cross the suspension bridge over the river then proceed to follow the long wooden boardwalk. Once you reach the end of the boardwalk, follow the gravel road for a short distance then cross the Siffleur Bridge. Remain on the trail until you reach the breathtaking falls. This area is an ecological reserve. Upon reaching the falls, please be aware of the “Dangerous Slopes” sign, and take all warning signs seriously. There are various guardrails put in place for safe viewing of the falls and gorge below. This portion of the trail takes most hikers around two to three hours to complete. While some complete their hike here, you may continue to two other sets of falls if you’re feeling adventurous. The second set of falls is 2.5 km from the first waterfall, and can only be viewed from open view points off the trail. Continue walking along the canyon trail for an additional 1.5 km to reach the final set of falls. The entirety of this trail is an all-day adventure, and is a 14-km hike.
Nearby accommodations: Thompson Creek, Rampart Creek, Two O’clock Creek and Crescent Falls Campground
Allstones Creek
We rank this hike as: Good for all skill levels
You might want to bring an extra pair of shoes for this adventure, because your feet may get wet. Park on the east side of the David Thompson Highway, just past the causeway over Allstones Creek. To begin your family-friendly adventure, cross the highway or hike over to the flood culvert that runs under the highway. Follow the creek upstream for 2.25 km until you reach a 6 m high waterfall. Here’s where that extra pair of shoes will come in handy. If you want to continue on this hike, you’ll have to cross Allstones Creek. Continue until you reach the magnificent falls and take in all the scenic beauty of this picture-perfect journey has to offer.
Nearby accommodations: Rampart Creek, Thompson Creek, Gold Eye Lake, Fish Lake, Dry Haven, Two O’clock Creek, and Crescent Falls Campground
Landslide Lake
We rank this hike as: Extreme. Recommended for experienced hikers only
So, you’re ready for a challenge? We’ve got exactly that. This trail is a tough one and is recommended for experienced hikers due to its extreme elevation in the first 6 km and steep descent into Landslide Lake. The lake can be reached from the Cline River bridge on Highway 11 or from the trailhead east of Thompson Creek Campground. The route from the bridge is 10 km. For a slightly shorter but steeper route, take the route from the south trailhead. Although this is quite the hike, it does not go unrewarded. Come prepared, and get ready to experience this incredible journey. The trail from the bridge also has access to Lake of the Falls, Pinto Lake and Entry Creek.
Nearby accommodations: Thompson Creek Campground
Coliseum Mountain
We rank this hike as: Moderate
Access to this adventure begins near Shunda Creek Campground. The elevation on this hike gets steep, reaching 680 m. The mountain overlooking Nordegg has a distinctive crown on one side. Enjoy this enchanting winding forest and bask in the glory of this beautiful nature escape. After your steep climb, there is a steady and easy stroll to finish off this picturesque journey.
Nearby accommodations: Shunda Creek Campground
PS: Here are 3 more incredible hikes to try in David Thompson Country
Other Blog Articles
Explore David Thompson Country
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August 22, 2017
An Eco-Tourism Stay in David Thompson Country: Aurum Lodge
Nestled in the wilderness of David Thompson Country is Aurum Lodge an eco-friendly lodge that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the area while having as little negative impact on the environment as possible. We sat down with our friends at Aurum lodge to discuss what guests can experience during their stay, and why […]
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July 20, 2017
Our Top 19 Favourite Instagram Photos of David Thompson Country: Landscape Edition
Your photos of David Thompson Country just keep getting better and better! We had so much fun seeing your adventures in our Top 15 Favourite Instagram Photos of David Thompson Country: Water Edition article that we decided we just had to write a sequel. This time, your photographic mission was to capture the landscape of the area. As usual, you never cease to amaze us, travellers!
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August 28, 2017
Giddy Up: Adventures with JKL Trail Rides
When you think of the ultimate Alberta vacation – mountains and horses are likely two of the things that come to mind. Lucky for you, JKL Trail Rides conveniently combines these two elements – giving you the chance to enjoy a bucket-list worthy experience within a day’s drive of Calgary and Edmonton. With two locations in David […]