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Hiking in Lethbridge
Hiking in Lethbridge
As a prairie city, you may not think of Lethbridge as a hiker’s paradise. But the coulees and river valley provide all the elevation you could dream of. Each trail offers an escape into nature, whether it’s taking you up steep climbs or relaxing (and thankfully flat) pathways. While in Lethbridge you have your choice of parks, nature reserves, and wetlands to hike in. So don't worry about finding the perfect trail, Lethbridge has something for everyone!
With over 280km of trails in the city, it can be hard to know where to start. Lucky for you, we’ve created this guide to all our favourite trails and loops in Lethbridge! So choose one, grab your shoes, and get hiking!
*Please note that many of Lethbridge's coulee trails pass through the Helen Schuler Nature Reserve. In this area dogs are not permitted.
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Easy Trails
Pavan Park Loop
3.5km with 73m elevation gain.
Dogs permitted on-leash.
Pavan Park has lots to explore and is even considered one of Lethbridge’s hidden gems. The loop takes you all throughout the park, so you’ll get a good idea of what it has to offer. The path has a combination of paved paths, shale paths, and even equestrian trails, so keep and eye out for horses! Though the main trail is well marked, there are many off-shoots available for hikers looking to get off the beaten track. There is a parking lot and a set of bathrooms located next to the trailhead for your convenience.
Coulee Dog Run and Seven and Ten Trail Loop
5.6 km with 92m elevation gain.
Dogs permitted on-leash until you reach the Helen Schuler Nature Reserve.
This trail is one of the most popular trails in Lethbridge, and for good reason! The pathway takes you along the top of the coulees on the west and east sides of the river, so you’re getting a 360o view of the gorgeous river valley. The majority of the trail keeps to the coulee tops, so this is a great loop to take if you want to enjoy the coulee scenery without having to hike up from the bottom.
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Elizabeth Hall Wetlands Loop
2.9 km with 71m elevation gain.
Dogs not permitted.
If you’re looking for a short loop with lots of wildlife, the Elizabeth Hall Wetlands Loop is the trail for you.The pathway is well-maintained and brings you right into the beautiful wetlands. Waterfowl and shorebirds are common sights along this trail, but the real crowing jewels are the western painted turtles that can be spotted sunning themselves on the rocks! This loop has no shortage of wildlife to be found!
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Moderate Trails
Cairo’s Path—Coal Banks Trail
11.9km with 117 m elevation gain.
Dogs not permitted.
Cairo’s Path follows the eastern shore of the Oldman River. Please note that this trail is not a loop, so arrange a pick-up at the Lethbridge Country Club where the trail ends, or test your stamina and do the whole thing in reverse to get back to your starting point. The pathways are a mix of sandy beaches and partially paved trails, ensuring you are kept on your toes! This trail can be overgrown during some sections, so you might even get to practice your bush-wacking skills!
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Helen Schuler Nature Centre Bull Trail
8.7 km with 201m elevation gain.
Dogs permitted on-leash until your each the Helen Schuler Nature Reserve.
Though Bull Trail Park is in this middle of the city, you’d never know it! This descent into the river valley truly makes you feel like you’ve escaped into nature. The path contains a few sets of stairs to bring you on top of the coulees, but other than these sections it is relatively flat—perfect for those looking to get their blood pumping a bit before a long stretch to take a breather!
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Bull Trail Park North
9.8km with 306m elevation gain.
Dogs permitted on-leash until you reach the Helen Schuler Nature Reserve.
The Bull Trail Park loop is perfect for those looking to get their blood pumping. It contains a mix of hills, flats, and stairs that will take you up and down the coulees. At the top you’ll get gorgeous views, and at the bottom you’ll get up close and personal with our nature and wildlife. Make sure to snap some pictures, because this will be an experience you don't want to forget!
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Make sure to add #ExploreLethbridge to any pictures you post on social media. We love to see everyone enjoying Lethbridge's nature and wildlife, and may even repost some of our favourites. Don't worry though, we always ask for permission first!