Big Hill Springs Provincial Park Day Trip

Big Hill Springs is a nice day trip.Nestled away in a valley a short drive from Calgary offers a tranquil, serene place to bring families and a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Big Hill Springs Park. This hidden oasis, One of the most beautiful spots on the Alberta Prairies. It is located 10 km north of Cochrane, 6 km from Highway 22 on Highway 567. Also accessible from 1A Hwy west to Hwy 766, Lockend Rd to 567 and follow signs. As you turn off the Hwy into the valley, it is hard to imagine the beauty that awaits you. Once  known by mostly locals and a few city folk BHS has become a very popular tourist attraction. It is a great place to hike, picnic, splash in the water, visit nature as you could encounter wildlife that roams through.

The Hike

The Family-friendly hike is a loop 2.3 km long with an elevation of 20 meters. The path winds through the beautiful Tufa formations allowing for you to enjoy the many waterfalls along the walk. As the path elevates you can enjoy the scenic valley beneath you. At the top, there are a few teepee structures made from fallen trees,  I gather built by visitors throughout the yrs. Washrooms are in the parking lot area.

What you will see?

The path winds through tranquil streams of water and rock formations.These rocks are called,”Tufa”, Formed by calcium and carbonated rich water emerging from the ground. As the water comes to the surface it releases carbon dioxide into the air forming this unusual geological features of rock formations throughout the creek.

The valley was carved out by glaciers 10,000 yrs ago. This channel contains a natural spring caused by ground water being forced up by sand and gravel forming Tufa formations.

In closing, I highly recommend Big Hill Spring Park. Pack a picnic and let the kids play in the fresh spring ponds. It can get a bit busy but there really is many places to throw your blanket down and find a spot of your own. It may be the perfect spot to pop the question. Please remember to pick up after yourself and keep the water clean.