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Troll Falls Kananaskis Country

4.7
·450 reviews·, Canada

A popular, accessible waterfall hike in Kananaskis Country, perfect for families and nature lovers year-round.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Upper Falls

Troll Falls Kananaskis Country

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A popular, accessible waterfall hike in Kananaskis Country, perfect for families and nature lovers year-round.

4.7
(450 reviews)

"Beautiful spot with an easy hike and stunning waterfalls. Perfect for a quick nature escape!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Kananaskis Pass Required

Ensure you have your Kananaskis Conservation Pass displayed. They are checked regularly! :ticket:

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Waterproof boots and crampons for winter; good hiking shoes for other seasons. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Troll Falls

Troll Falls

Main waterfall

A beautiful, accessible waterfall perfect for a quick nature escape and photos. Enjoy the mist!

Upper Troll Falls

Upper Troll Falls

Further along the trail

Continue past the lower falls for a more secluded experience and stunning views.

Marmot Falls

Marmot Falls

Connected trail

Often visited in conjunction with Troll Falls, offering more cascading beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Kananaskis Pass is a Must

Don't forget to purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass before your visit. Parking lots are regularly checked, and you could receive a warning or fine if you don't have one. Passes can be bought online or at some local retailers.

Footwear for All Seasons

Depending on the season, you'll need appropriate footwear. In winter, crampons and waterproof boots are recommended for icy conditions. In warmer months, sturdy hiking shoes are best for the sometimes uneven and rocky terrain.

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter trails
Crowd
Low
When
Winter
Why
Frozen waterfall magic
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you found this waterfall yet?? #kananaskis #hike #foryou #explore #waterfall #alberta
@kay.horv
17.5K likes • 214K views

🚗 Kananaskis Pass Required

Ensure you have your Kananaskis Conservation Pass displayed. They are checked regularly! :ticket:

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Waterproof boots and crampons for winter; good hiking shoes for other seasons. :athletic_shoe:

Lori Arnason and Howard Mah were hiking along the Troll Falls trail in Alberta's Kananaskis Country last Saturday when they crossed paths with a grizzly bear. Here's how they escaped, safely. #Calgary #Hiking #Bear #Animals #Moment #CBCNews
@cbcnews
10.9K likes • 342.3K views
Troll Falls, you have my heart! Hiking to this hidden gem in Kananaskis was a dream come true! The roar of the falls, the mist around , and the stunning scenery... pure magic! *Watch till the end for a surprise!* *Location:* Troll Falls, Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada #TrollFalls #Kananaskis #WaterfallWednesday #HikingAdventures #NatureLover #CanadaExplore #YEG #YYC
mrkunal_ig
21 likes • 872 views

🐻 Bear Safety Awareness

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in spring/summer. Make noise and carry bear spray. :bear:

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Trail

Easy to moderate hike, suitable for families and even strollers on parts of the trail. :child:

🌲💧 Upper Troll Falls – A Hidden Gem in Kananaskis Located in the beautiful Kananaskis Country, Upper Troll Falls is just a 1.7 km hike from the Troll Falls parking lot, continuing past the lower falls. The trail is easy to moderate, with a gradual incline and some rocky, uneven terrain near the upper falls — so wear proper footwear. 👟 You’ll be rewarded with a stunning, less-crowded waterfall sur...
povirg
3 likes • 295 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Kananaskis Pass Required

Ensure you have your Kananaskis Conservation Pass displayed. They are checked regularly! :ticket:

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Waterproof boots and crampons for winter; good hiking shoes for other seasons. :athletic_shoe:

🐻 Bear Safety Awareness

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in spring/summer. Make noise and carry bear spray. :bear:

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Trail

Easy to moderate hike, suitable for families and even strollers on parts of the trail. :child:

📸 Capture the Mist

Bring your camera! The mist from the falls creates magical photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

🗺️ Explore Beyond Troll Falls

Consider continuing to Marmot Falls for more waterfall views. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(450 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Troll Falls for its easy, family-friendly hike and beautiful waterfall scenery. Many appreciate the accessibility and the opportunity to see multiple falls in one trip. Some note that it can get crowded, especially on weekends, and advise on the necessity of a Kananaskis Pass.

"A very easy hike on the way to this waterfall. We easily walked 45 minutes with a 4-year-old child. We even saw people who managed to ride strollers there. There were many different mushrooms around, they smelled good. In that direction, not only these waterfalls, but also Marmot falls and cascading waterfalls. So in one trip you have the opportunity to see several. We liked Marmot the most. We saw people who carried food with them and had a snack right near the waterfalls, but we didn’t risk it and had a snack near the car. Don’t forget about the car pass to Kananaskis, I got a warning (because I thought this place belonged to the national park)..."

Tatiana Lesyk

"Beautiful spot with an easy hike and stunning waterfalls. Perfect for a quick nature escape and photos. Well-maintained trail and peaceful surroundings — highly recommend visiting!"

Medrik

"Hiked to Troll Falls and then up to Marmot Falls on a Sunday and August. We arrived at the trail head about 9:30 am and there was ample parking and we saw few people on the trail. By the time we left a couple of hours later, the parking lot was full and the trail was getting crowded. Lots of families, especially on the first section. Easy enough for beginners and well marked."

Anna C

What People Like

Easy and accessible hike
Beautiful waterfalls
Family-friendly

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Kananaskis Pass required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Troll Falls is located in Kananaskis Country, about an hour's drive west of Calgary. Take Highway 1 West and then Highway 40 South. The Troll Falls parking lot is well-signed. :car: TikTokInstagram

Public transportation options to Kananaskis Country are limited. It's generally recommended to drive. Consider carpooling if you're traveling with others. :bus:

Parking is available at the Troll Falls trailhead. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot. :parking: Reddit

The main trail to Troll Falls is considered easy to moderate, with a gradual incline. It's well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels. :hiking_boot: InstagramReddit

Yes, Troll Falls is accessible in winter, but the trail can be icy and slippery. Waterproof boots and crampons are highly recommended for safety. :snowflake: Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for all vehicles parking in Kananaskis Country, including at the Troll Falls trailhead. You can purchase it online or at select local retailers. :ticket: Reddit

Troll Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round, dawn to dusk. There are no specific operating hours. :clock:

The cost to visit Troll Falls is the price of the Kananaskis Conservation Pass, which varies depending on the duration (daily or annual). The hike itself is free. :moneywithwings:

You do not need to book tickets in advance for Troll Falls. The Kananaskis Conservation Pass is the only required purchase for access. :computer:

No, the Kananaskis Conservation Pass covers all entry and parking fees within Kananaskis Country. There are no additional entrance fees for Troll Falls. :dollar:

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The main trail to Troll Falls is approximately 3.4 km (2.1 miles) round trip. If you continue to Upper Troll Falls, the total distance can be slightly longer. :round_pushpin: Instagram+1

The hike to Troll Falls typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls. :stopwatch: Reddit

Yes, you can extend your hike to visit Marmot Falls and other cascading waterfalls in the area. :waterfall: Reddit

Absolutely! Troll Falls is very family-friendly. The trail is manageable for young children, and some even manage strollers. Little troll figures along the way add to the magic. :child: InstagramReddit

In winter, when the falls are frozen, it's sometimes possible to walk behind them. In warmer months, the water flow might make this difficult or unsafe. :ice_skate: Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly at Troll Falls. It's a natural area, so plan to bring your own snacks and water. :sandwich:

Picnicking is allowed in designated areas near the trailhead or car. It's advised not to eat directly at the falls due to wildlife. :picnic_table: Reddit

Pack plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Snacks like granola bars, fruit, or sandwiches are good options for a short hike. :water_bottle:

The nearest towns with restaurants and cafes are Canmore and Banff, both offering a variety of dining options. :forkandknife:

While there are no specific food restrictions for visitors, it's important to pack out all your trash and avoid feeding wildlife. :trashcan:

📸 📸 Photography

Morning light can be beautiful, but the mist can create ethereal shots throughout the day. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be stunning. :sunriseovermountains:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and surrounding scenery. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors. :camerawithflash: Instagram

The base of the falls offers a classic view. For different perspectives, explore the trail leading to Upper Troll Falls and Marmot Falls. :camera:

Drone usage is restricted in many areas of Kananaskis Country to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check Parks Canada or Alberta Parks regulations before flying a drone. :drone:

Visit on a cold, clear day after a snowfall for the most dramatic frozen waterfall shots. Be sure to dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear. :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Troll Falls is an excellent choice for families! The main trail is relatively short (3.4 km round trip) and has a gentle incline, making it manageable for young children. Many reviewers mention seeing people with strollers, highlighting its accessibility. :stroller: Reddit The trail is also dotted with little troll figures, adding a fun, magical element that kids love. :troll_tide:

Consider extending your hike to Upper Troll Falls or Marmot Falls if your children have more energy. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and always supervise children closely, especially near the water. Bear safety is also important, so make noise and keep an eye out for wildlife. :bear: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Troll Falls is a fantastic budget-friendly destination. The primary cost is the Kananaskis Conservation Pass, which is significantly more affordable than national park fees. :moneywithwings: You can opt for a daily pass if you're just visiting for the day. The hike itself is free, offering incredible natural beauty without a hefty price tag. :dollar:

Pack your own food and drinks to save money on dining. There are no facilities at the trailhead, so bringing a picnic to enjoy near your car or at a designated spot is ideal. :sandwich: This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings without breaking the bank. :hiking_boot:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Troll Falls offers numerous opportunities for stunning photography year-round. The cascading water, especially when framed by lush greenery in summer or dramatic ice formations in winter, makes for captivating shots. :camerawithflash: Instagram The mist rising from the falls can create ethereal and moody images. Consider using a tripod for long exposures to capture the silky smooth water effect. :tripod:

For a unique perspective, explore the trails leading to Upper Troll Falls and Marmot Falls. The surrounding Kananaskis landscape also provides beautiful backdrops. If visiting in winter, the frozen falls present a completely different, yet equally impressive, photographic subject. Remember to protect your gear from moisture and cold. :camera:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Kananaskis Country

Kananaskis Country is a vast and beautiful park system managed by Alberta Parks. Unlike national parks, it requires a Kananaskis Conservation Pass for entry and parking. This pass is crucial for funding conservation efforts and maintaining the park's infrastructure. You can purchase daily or annual passes online or at various local businesses. Ensure your pass is visible on your dashboard when parked. :car: Reddit

Getting to Troll Falls is straightforward, typically involving a scenic drive west from Calgary on Highway 1, then south on Highway 40. The Troll Falls trailhead is well-marked, but parking lots can fill up rapidly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a parking spot and enjoy a less crowded experience. :parking: Reddit

While Troll Falls is the main draw, Kananaskis Country offers numerous other trails and attractions. Consider exploring nearby Upper Troll Falls and Marmot Falls for a more extended hike. The park is also popular for camping, cycling, and wildlife viewing, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of this stunning natural area. :hiking_boot:

Wildlife Encounters and Safety

Kananaskis Country is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, elk, and deer. While sightings can be thrilling, it's essential to prioritize safety. The Troll Falls trail is known to have bear activity, particularly during warmer months. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise as you hike by talking or singing to avoid surprising any animals. :bear:

Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Never feed animals, as this can lead to dangerous habituation and health problems for them. If you encounter a bear, remain calm, do not run, and slowly back away. Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and the local wildlife. :running:

TikTok videos have highlighted bear encounters on these trails, emphasizing the importance of preparedness. Travelers often share tips on making noise and staying aware of their surroundings. :T2 TikTok

Seasonal Beauty of Troll Falls

Troll Falls offers a unique charm throughout the year. In spring and summer, the falls are at their most vigorous, surrounded by lush green forests and vibrant wildflowers. The mist from the cascading water provides a refreshing respite on warmer days. This is the most popular time for families and casual hikers. :sunflower:

As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms with stunning fall colors, making the hike even more picturesque. The air becomes crisp, and the crowds begin to thin, offering a more serene experience. :maple_leaf:

Winter brings a magical transformation, with Troll Falls freezing into spectacular ice formations. The trail can become icy, requiring proper footwear like crampons for safe passage. Walking behind the frozen falls is a unique experience during this season, offering a different perspective on this natural wonder. :ice_cube: Instagram+1

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