West Fish Creek hike

Looking to hike in Fish Creek Provincial Park? This is one of our favourite trails, but there is so much to see in this part of Fish Creek that you could fill a day following any of the paths you come across.

The western section of Fish Creek Provincial Park has four parking lots, and each one gives access to different paved, gravel and dirt pathways. Park at Votier’s Flats, Bebo Grove, Shannon Terrace or Marshall Springs, all of which lead directly to incredible walking opportunities.

Our favourite hike kicks off from the Votier’s Flats parking lot. Head east on the paved bike path, and you’ll immediately come to a parking lot. Continue to follow the paved bike path, soon joining another bike path. Go left on this path and find yourself surrounded by a lush forest with the valley ridge above.

Continue until you come across a glistening pond full of birds and frogs. Follow the road until you notice it splits, continuing straight.

You’ll see the trail splits yet again. This time, head left towards Fish Creek. Stop on the small bridge to see if you can spot any fish in the water below and breathe in the fresh air.

After crossing the bridge, follow the path as it curves to the right. Look for a red gravel path on your right, which is a nice option to explore a less-trafficked part of Fish Creek Park. At the end of this path before it curves back to the left, you can walk down to Fish Creek, where hot summer days will see swimmers playing in the water. This is also a good place to spot frogs and garter snakes.

Rejoin the main paved trail, crossing two more bridges. After the second bridge, take a dirt path on your left to a fun creekside area perfect for skipping rocks. From here, head out through the forest on a path that braids through the trees.

Connect with a paved path and go left towards Marshall Springs. This path is occasionally flooded because of beaver activity, so turn around if you find it too wet. When you come to another intersection, go left again, soon reaching Marshall Springs. This is a very pretty area with a pond and lots of waterfowl.

Return the way you came for a short while, then go left at your first intersection to cross over another bridge. Head down through the forest, which is a pleasant walk. After coming out of the forest, take the path on the right, which eventually connects with the ponds near Bebo Grove. These are the nicest ponds in all of Fish Creek, and a great place for a break or a picnic.

Follow the path as you leave the ponds at Bebo Grove, heading into the trees before the path curves to the right and crosses a bridge back into a forest on the other side.

Soon. you’re back on the same trail as before. After you cross the fourth bridge, you’ll come out of the trees and you’ll see a coulee on your left. Take the path up to find a hidden pond, a nice place to spot birds.

Rejoin the path and you’re back at your car before too long.