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Everything You Need to Know About Grotto Canyon (No Need to Get Lost!)
- What to Expect on the Grotto Canyon Trail
- How to Get to Grotto Canyon Trailhead
- How to Hike Grotto Canyon
- Step 1: Start at the trailhead
- Step 2: Pass the industrial facilities
- Step 3: Enter the canyon
- Step 4: Keep an eye out for petroglyphs
- Step 5: Check out the waterfall and beyond
- Step 6: Make a quick cave trip
- Step 7: Head back to the trailhead
- Best Time to Hike Grotto Canyon
- Where to Eat near Grotto Canyon
- Grizzly Paw Brewing Company
- Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co
- Communitea Café
- FAQs for Hiking Grotto Canyon
If you haven’t hiked Grotto Canyon yet, you’re in for a treat—whether you’re into history, ice walks, or just pretending to be an explorer.
I remember my first time there: halfway through, I was questioning if I was on the right trail (spoiler: I was) while also keeping an eye out for ancient petroglyphs.
And don’t get me started on the waterfall! In summer, it’s a nice spot to cool off, but in winter, it turns into an ice-climbing paradise.
If you’re planning a trip, this guide will cover everything you need to know so you can avoid rookie mistakes (like forgetting your crampons—yep, I learned the hard way). So, let’s dive into Grotto Canyon!
What to Expect on the Grotto Canyon Trail
Grotto Canyon is a short but rewarding hike just outside Canmore, Alberta, perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers looking for a quick adventure. The trail takes you through a narrow canyon, where you can spot ancient petroglyphs, rock formations, and a waterfall (or icefalls in winter!).
How to Get to Grotto Canyon Trailhead
Closest highway exit: To reach the Grotto Canyon Trailhead from Calgary, take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) west toward Canmore. Exit at Highway 1A (Bow Valley Trail) via Exit 93, and drive east for about 10 km (6.2 miles) until you see signs for Grotto Canyon.
The parking lot is right at the trailhead, but make sure to arrive early as it fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
How to Hike Grotto Canyon
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| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate ●●●○○ |
| Distance | 4 km (2.5 miles) round trip |
| Elevation | 115 m (minimal) |
| Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Trail Type | Out and back |
| Surface | The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from forests to a dry creek bed deep into a narrow, rocky canyon. |
| Costs | Free (no entry or parking fees) |
To start your hike at Grotto Canyon, start at the trailhead and follow the creek bed. You’ll reach the waterfall after 2 km, and if you’re up for it, you can explore the nearby cave.
The entire hike is around 4 km (2.5 miles) round-trip, and will take about 2 hours.
Wondering about what you’ll encounter along your hike? We’ve got you! Let’s break the route down below!
Step 1: Start at the trailhead
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Your hike starts at the Grotto Canyon parking lot. From here, follow the well-marked gravel path that meanders through a lightly forested area.
Step 2: Pass the industrial facilities
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As you walk along the trail, you’ll spot the Baymag magnesium oxide processing plant off in the distance. This facility processes magnesite mined near Radium Hot Springs, and you can hear its operations echoing throughout the valley.
As you get nearer, you might start to question if you’re headed the right way. But don’t worry—the power lines and the trail veer off just in time, allowing you to leave the facility behind.
Step 3: Enter the canyon
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After approximately 1 km (0.6 miles), the gravel path transitions into a rocky creek bed as you enter the canyon. The walls start to close in on you as the trail narrows, with smooth, high rock faces rising on either side.
The canyon floor is made up of smooth stones, which can be slippery if wet, so watch your step. If you’re hiking in the winter, this area will likely be frozen over, and the stones beneath the ice can make the trail slippery.
Step 4: Keep an eye out for petroglyphs
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About halfway through the canyon, you’ll come across faint Indigenous petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls. These ancient rock carvings were made by the Indigenous peoples who lived here thousands of years ago. You’ll find them on the right side of the canyon as you walk in.
They can be tricky to spot, so take your time and look at the rocks as you go through the narrower sections. This part of the hike isn’t just about soaking in the views; it’s also a cool chance to connect with local history.
Step 5: Check out the waterfall and beyond
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After walking about 2 km (or 1.2 miles), you’ll reach the Grotto Canyon waterfall.
Depending on the time of year, it might be gushing with water or frozen into a beautiful ice sculpture. It’s a great place to pause, snap photos, and snack.
Step 6: Make a quick cave trip
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If you’re feeling adventurous, you can keep going past the waterfall for another 200 meters to check out a small cave. This little side trip is pretty easy and lets you explore a bit more before heading back.
Step 7: Head back to the trailhead
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After you’ve soaked in all the sights of the canyon, just head back the way you came to the parking lot. The return trip is just as beautiful, and since it’s a pretty short hike, you can take your time to enjoy the views and snap some extra photos along the way.
Best Time to Hike Grotto Canyon
The best time to visit Grotto Canyon depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in different seasons:
- Summer (June to September)
Summer is the busiest time to hike Grotto Canyon. The trail is nice and dry, the creek bed is easy to walk on, and you can easily spot the petroglyphs.
The temperatures are mild, making it a great option for families or anyone looking for a relaxed outdoor adventure.
- Winter (December to March)
In winter, Grotto Canyon turns into a stunning ice wonderland. The creek bed freezes, and the waterfall becomes a popular spot for ice climbing.
If you decide to hike during this time, make sure to pack some ice cleats or crampons for better grip.
- Spring and Fall
These shoulder seasons offer a quieter hiking experience since there are fewer people around. Just be ready for some unpredictable weather; you might encounter snow in the fall or muddy paths in the spring.
Where to Eat near Grotto Canyon
Grizzly Paw Brewing Company
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Address: 622 8 St, Canmore
Contact details: +14036782487
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: $$
The go-to spot for a post-hike meal, Grizzly Paw is famous for its juicy burgers and house-brewed craft beers. It’s the perfect place to kick back after a day on the trails.
Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co
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Address: 838 10 St, Canmore
Contact details: +1 403-609-5508
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: $$
This cozy, family-friendly restaurant is all about fresh, handmade pizzas. Whether you’re in the mood for classic or creative toppings, their wood-fired pizzas are always a hit.
Communitea Café
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Address: 117-1001 6 Ave, Canmore
Contact details: +1 403-678-6818
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 9 AM – 7 PM
Pricing: $
Ideal for a light, healthy meal, Communitea Café offers fresh salads, wraps, and smoothies. It’s a great stop if you’re looking for a nutritious lunch or a refreshing drink.
