Elbow Falls
Alberta • 6 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
9 m
About Elbow Falls
Elbow Falls is a small set of waterfalls along the Elbow River, west of the hamlet of Bragg Creek within Kananaskis Improvement District, Alberta. They are located along Highway 66, 20 km (12 mi) west of the Bragg Creek turnoff on Highway 22.
The Setting
Elbow Falls sits at 1,503 metres in the mountains of Alberta. The falls drop 6 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Elbow Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 101-145 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 20-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-km loop trail gains 9 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
From the parking area a short paved path (with some steps) leads to a viewing platform and picnic area overlooking the Elbow River and the cascade. Visitors can follow short informal trails and rocky banks for closer views of the water, but surfaces can be uneven and slippery. Total walking distance from the lot to viewpoints and return is typically under a half-mile.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 6 metres over layered sedimentary rock.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Elbow Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Elbow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for higher flows and dramatic water levels; late spring/early summer for milder weather and wildflowers nearby; fall for foliage colors. Winter offers frozen/icy scenery but requires caution due to slippery surfaces.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery rocks, fast-flowing and cold water, sudden changes in water level (especially during spring runoff or after heavy rain), icy conditions in winter, and variable weather. Stay on designated paths, supervise children closely, avoid entering the river, and follow posted warnings. During high-water events or maintenance the area may be closed.
Current Water Conditions
13.8 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 88 years of record
1.10 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge ELBOW RIVER AT BRAGG CREEK (17 km away).
Today
Moderate
14 m³/s
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
14 m³/s
6/10Tue
Moderate
14 m³/s
6/10Wed
Moderate
14 m³/s
6/10Thu
Moderate
13 m³/s
8/10Fri
Moderate
12 m³/s
8/10Sat
Moderate
12 m³/s
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mainly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid May to mid August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Calgary hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Elbow Falls is accessed from the Elbow Valley / Bragg Creek area off the provincial roads west of Calgary. There is a signed turnout and a small day-use parking area adjacent to the road; a short paved path and steps lead down to the viewing areas. Expect a short drive from Calgary (roughly 40 miles) and about 45–60 minutes depending on traffic.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Small paved day-use parking lot with additional roadside parking nearby when busy. The lot can fill quickly on weekends and during peak season. No confirmed overnight parking; follow posted signage.
Elevation
1,503 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.867686° N, -114.778989° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early on busy days to find parking. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction for walking on wet rock. Do not climb on wet or algae-covered rocks near the river. In winter bring traction devices (microspikes) and warm layers; trails and stairs may be icy. Pack out all trash and respect posted signs. Cell service may be limited in some spots.
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For this easy 1.0 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Beaver Flats Campground
1.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Bragg Creek village (shops and services), Kananaskis Country trailheads and day-use areas, Elbow Valley trails and viewpoints. Numerous hiking and picnic areas in the general Bragg Creek / Kananaskis region.
Wildlife
Common wildlife includes birds, small mammals, deer and elk in surrounding areas. Black bears and cougars are present regionally, practice standard wildlife safety (store food, keep distance).
Cities near Elbow Falls
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