Coal Banks Trail
A 24km trail offering stunning coulee views, river valley paths, and connections to Lethbridge's scenic network.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Coal Banks Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 24km trail offering stunning coulee views, river valley paths, and connections to Lethbridge's scenic network.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
This is a lengthy 24km trail, so good footwear is essential for comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as it's a long trek.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coulee Views
Along the trail
Experience breathtaking vistas of the city, Oldman River, and the unique coulee landscapes.
River Valley Exploration
Oldman River section
Follow the winding path of the Oldman River, enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility.
Whoop Up Drive Connection
Trail forks
Discover how the trail connects to Whoop Up Drive, offering a different perspective of the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Lace Up for a Long Haul
Explore Beyond the Pavement
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
This is a lengthy 24km trail, so good footwear is essential for comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as it's a long trek.
Best bike paths in Lethbridge?
Just started biking and wondering what people's favorite paths are around or near the city? Best scenery, nicest ride, longest paths, or anything like that.
🗺️ Explore Trail Forks
Don't be afraid to explore the trail's forks for varied scenery and connections.
🚴♀️ Great for Biking
A popular choice for cyclists looking for scenic routes around Lethbridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
This is a lengthy 24km trail, so good footwear is essential for comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as it's a long trek.
🗺️ Explore Trail Forks
Don't be afraid to explore the trail's forks for varied scenery and connections.
🚴♀️ Great for Biking
A popular choice for cyclists looking for scenic routes around Lethbridge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Coal Banks Trail for its extensive length and stunning natural scenery, particularly the coulee views and river valley paths. It's a popular spot for both walkers and cyclists looking for an immersive outdoor experience. Some find the full 24km challenging, and amenities are limited, so preparation is key.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Coal Banks Trail can be accessed from various points within Lethbridge. Many users suggest starting near the coulees or connecting from Whoop Up Drive for different trail experiences.
Parking availability can vary depending on the access point. It's advisable to check local maps or community forums for recommended parking spots near your chosen starting point.
While direct public transport to every trailhead might be limited, you can often use Lethbridge Transit to get close to sections of the trail, especially those near urban areas.
Using a trail map app or a physical map is recommended, especially since the trail forks. This helps in planning your route and understanding connections.
Many find the southern access points or those connecting to Whoop Up Drive offer good starting points for exploring the diverse scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Coal Banks Trail is a public trail and does not require any admission tickets for access.
There are no entry fees for the Coal Banks Trail itself. Any associated costs would be related to transportation or personal gear.
As an outdoor public trail, the Coal Banks Trail is generally accessible from dawn till dusk. However, it's always best to be mindful of daylight hours for safety.
The trail is open year-round, but conditions can vary significantly. Winter may bring snow and ice, making certain sections challenging.
No booking is necessary for the Coal Banks Trail, as it's an open public space for recreation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Coal Banks Trail is approximately 24km long. Completing the entire trail can take several hours, depending on your pace and whether you stop for breaks.
Expect diverse scenery including views of the city, the Oldman River, coulees, and natural prairie landscapes.
While the full 24km might be challenging for very young children, shorter sections can be enjoyable for families. Be prepared for varied terrain.
Restroom facilities are not consistently available along the entire length of the trail. It's best to plan accordingly and use facilities before you start.
The coulee overlooks and sections along the Oldman River offer particularly scenic opportunities for photography.
🎫 🚴♀️ Cycling & Biking
Yes, the Coal Banks Trail is a popular choice for cyclists looking for scenic routes in Lethbridge.
It's suitable for general pedaling and recreational cycling. Mountain biking or intense road cycling might require exploring specific offshoots.
The trail forks and connects to other routes, offering opportunities to extend your cycling journey around Lethbridge.
While generally manageable, some sections might have varied terrain. It's good to be aware of your cycling comfort level.
The main Coal Banks Trail is about 24km, providing a substantial route for a good cycling session.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit