Hiking The Less-Traveled Trails Of Kananaskis Cat Creek Falls

Hiking Cat Creek Trail and Day Use Area is a great way to spend the day. I recommend hiking the less-traveled trails of Kananaskis cat creek falls to discover so much more. This hike is so enjoyable for the whole family with many spectacular views. I must say this was one of my most captivating hikes with the surrounding fall colors leading up to an attractive waterfall.

Finding Cat Creek Trail

Connecting to the Cat Creek Trail can be done either at the far end of the parking lot, the day-use area where you will find the trailhead sign which then crosses over the HWY 40 leading to a path with a slight elevation of 147m. You may also park alongside HWY 40 at creekside and follow a rocky path that will meet up to the original trail.

The beaten trail has some interpretive signs along the way that explain the origins of the area.

Whatever trail you choose to get to the falls will be a captivating journey.

“It’s not about the destination it’s all about the journey to get there”

Fall is a beautiful time to explore and hike Cat Creek Trail.

Don’t forget your Back-country Hiking Essentials

If you really want an easier hike with little to less elevation, take the old road path winding through the foothills from the HWY. Following the grey to the blue dotted line found on this map.

To find the crossing from the falls, look for a metal bridge form downstream from the falls. Cross and keep right and follow the old road or take a left path up the hill will lead you to Cat Creek Ridge. It will also take you up and around the falls. Gong right is where the wooden chair sits.

The Old Road Trail

The old road trail is a trail that follows the foothills on the East side of the creek from the falls. Add on another 30-40 minutes to your hike. We came across a walk-in campsite as well as a chair made from fallen wood along our walk, Someone is quite the craftsman with time on their hands. lol

What you will find at Cat Creek Falls

I talked a bit bout the hike to and from the falls from either direction so here is what you will find at the final destination.

To the right of the falls, you will see a rope and some rock steps to help guide you to the top of the falls. It is a bit sketchy so caution is a must. I chickened out but my hubby checked it out. At the top, he took a photo of the creek above the falls. see pic below.

Conclusion

Hiking Cat Creek falls is a must hike in any season. I can just imagine on a hot day how many hikers jump in the water to cool off. So crystal clear. With so many paths to choose at Cat Creek, the trail offers something new when you hike the less- traveled trails. One day we may hike the Cat Creek Ridge trail. See this map to find all the trails

Who doesn’t love Waterfalls? To find more waterfall hikes in the Canmore/Kananaskis check out> 12 Scenic waterfalls to discover within 2 hours of Calgary