Coal Creek Falls Hike, Bluerock Provincial Park

Where is Coal Creek, Alberta?

Coal Creek falls hike is a nice easy 9.1 km winter hike in Alberta’s Sheep River area, located at the south end of the Sandy McNabb campground. A 66km drive from Calgary to Turner Valley, then connect to HWY 546 West and follow up to the road closure at Sandy McNabb campground.

Coal Creek Falls Hike

Coal Creek Trail is a beautiful winter hike that leads to a frozen waterfall that cascades down from the jagged rocks above. There are many little falls throughout the trail as you walk the icy creek pathway.

Remember, This is a winter hike ONLY!

The trail first heads down to where you cross the frozen Sheep River that leads up to Coal Creek. The snow-packed path zig-zags up the frozen creekbed surrounded by the lovely landscapes of the foothills.

In spring, as the creek thaws, there may be pockets of freshwater throughout the trail. As you walk you will hear the sound of water rushing or tricking beneath your feet, caution is advised. Depending on thaw the trail could turn to water crossings in some areas.

It is cool to hike trails that are not accessible in summer as many don’t get the chance to view such spectacular sights and hidden gems as summer hikers only.

The Coal Creek Falls

Once reaching the cool rock formations that adorn the canyon walls you turn the corner to admire the frozen falls that seem to come from nowhere. There is a little cave behind the falls that children may be able to enter. These ice caves produce the most colorful shades of greens and blues of the frozen waters.

Beyond the Falls

It is possible the continue on for some distance however we chose to just take a quick peek of what was ahead by climbing the falls on the left and up a bit. A couple of tiny falls while walking through the canyon.

Conclusion:

All in all, this was a great winter hike. As with any winter hike I highly recommend carrying Hiking Essentials including traction devices for ice, mud, and snow. Buying a highly rated set of Micro Spikes will be an asset to any hike.

Remember, Bears can be anywhere and are also spotted in the winter months as well. Spring has sprung and so have the bears.

Check out the YouTube Video on this hike and don’t forget to Subscribe to view more winter and summer hikes in and around Southern to Northern Alberta.