If your family needs a break from the city and you want big views, loud water, and the kind of nature that makes kids put down their devices (at least for five minutes), this is the road trip. Pack the car, because west of Nordegg lies a stretch of Alberta that’s full of photo ops, misty hikes, and turquoise water that’ll make you swear you’re in a travel commercial.
Timing: Perfect for early to mid-July—just after peak runoff and before the falls become polite trickles.
Drive Time: About 4.5 hours one way from Edmonton. A long haul, but doable for a 48-hour trip if you head out early Friday or Saturday.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Edmonton → Crescent Falls → Nordegg Basecamp
Stop 1: Crescent Falls
- About 25 minutes west of Nordegg.
- Two-tiered waterfall with a short hike from the parking area.
- Upper viewpoint is fenced and easy; lower viewpoint has a rougher trail—hold onto those small kids tight.
- Parking lot has outhouses but no water.
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Where to Stay:
- Nordegg Lodge (family-friendly motel with an attached restaurant)
- Expanse Cottages (cabins with firepits and a rustic vibe)
- Camping at Fish Lake or Dry Haven, if you’ve got a tent or trailer. Reserve ahead when possible.
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Dinner:
- Hit the Miners Café for homemade pie or a sit-down meal at Nordegg Lodge Dining. Bring groceries if you’re camping—options are limited.
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Day 2: Siffleur Falls + Abraham Lake Views
Morning: Siffleur Falls Hike
- Starts at the Siffleur Falls staging area, about 40 min from Nordegg.
- 4 km (one way) to the first major falls. Kid-friendly if they can manage a 2–3 hour return hike.
- Flat-ish trail with a suspension bridge and boardwalks across the Kootenay Plains.
- Bring sunscreen and water—very exposed trail.
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Lunch:
Pack and carry your lunch. There are no services at Siffleur, but there are picnic spots near the parking lot.
Afternoon: Abraham Lake Lookouts
- Drive the David Thompson Highway east or west from Siffleur and stop at Windy Point, Preacher’s Point, or Allstones Creek for turquoise lake views.
- In July, you won’t see methane bubbles, but the blue water is still unreal.
- Bring towels for a lakeside hangout or wade-in.
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Evening:
Return to Nordegg or start heading home with a stop in Rocky Mountain House for dinner.
Packing Essentials
- Hiking shoes or sturdy runners
- Bug spray and bear spray (yes, it’s bear country)
- Sunscreen and hats
- Extra water and snacks
- Camera or phone with lots of storage
- Towels and backup clothes for wet kids
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Good to Know
- No cell service in many spots—download your maps.
- Trails are popular but not patrolled; keep dogs leashed and pack out all garbage.
- Water levels are still strong in early July—stay safe near cliff edges and always supervise kids near fast-moving water.
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Bonus Stops if You’ve Got Time
- Ram Falls (a detour south of Nordegg—longer drive, but jaw-dropping)
- BATUS Canyon (off-the-beaten-path gem for experienced hikers)
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