Alberta’s Best Trail Day Trips for Families
Looking for a simple, affordable way to get outside with the family?
The Trans Canada Trail in Alberta has you covered.
Across the province, you’ll find Trail sections perfect for quick day trips — spots where strollers, scooters and little legs are always welcome. Whether you’re after a nature walk, a bike ride with a view, or a quiet picnic spot, these family-friendly routes make it easy to enjoy the outdoors.
Photo: Town of Devon | AB — Trans Canada Trail
Trails near Edmonton:
parks, picnics, and river views
Amisk Wacîw Mêskanaw Beaver Hill Road – City of Edmonton Trail
Explore the longest river valley trail in North America! These wide, multi-use paths through Edmonton offer plenty of space for walking, biking and stroller cruising — with lots of playgrounds and green space along the way.
Nearby: Stop at Kinsmen Park for a playground break or explore the Muttart Conservatory’s pyramids for some indoor fun
Photo: Amisk Wacîw Mêskanaw Beaver Hill Road – City of Edmonton Trail | Edmonton, AB — Jennifer Mahon
Trails near Calgary:
city access, mountain vibes
Bow River Pathway (City of Calgary)
This paved trail follows the Bow River and links parks, bridges and family-friendly stops. It’s perfect for little explorers on wheels or on foot.
Nearby: Take a pit stop at Prince’s Island Park, visit the Calgary Zoo or plan a snack break at the Peace Bridge.
Fish Creek Provincial Park
Easily accessible from Calgary, this gentle trail is a great option for walking or biking with kids. Spot wading birds on the banks of the Bow River or stop for lunch at one of the park’s many picnic areas.
Nearby: On rainy days, take some time to explore Bow Valley Ranch Visitor Centre.
Photo: Bow River Pathway | Calgary, AB — Bich-Anh Nguyen
Trails near Banff:
stunning views and mountain air
Banff National Park – Cave and Basin National Historic Site
A special place for Indigenous communities for millennia, Cave and Basin National Historic Site is also recognized as the birthplace of Canada’s national parks. The nearby trails are short, scenic, and stroller-friendly — with boardwalks through marshlands, bubbling hot springs and plenty of interpretive signs to keep kids curious and engaged.
Nearby: Explore interactive exhibits, enjoy a picnic by the Bow River, or stroll over to the Banff Park Museum for more fun.
Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail
Ideal for older kids and families with bikes, this paved trail connects Canmore and Banff with epic Rocky Mountain views. You don’t have to ride the whole thing — even a short stretch makes for a memorable day out.
Nearby: Pack a picnic and stop at Cascade Ponds for even more outdoor fun.
Photo: Cave and Basin National Historic Site | Banff National Park, AB — Jennifer Mahon
Big adventures start small
You don’t have to go far to find fresh air, wide-open spaces and family fun. Alberta’s section of the Trans Canada Trail is packed with easy, nearby day trip options that fit your schedule — and your little explorers’ energy levels.
Pack some snacks, load up the stroller or the bikes and see where the Trail takes you. Adventure is closer than you think.
Find your next family-friendly Trail adventure
