Thompson Creek

With the new staging area, Thompson Creek is destined to become one of the Bighorn’s most rewarding hiking destinations, offering options for everyone from families seeking a scenic walk to experienced mountaineers pursuing some of Alberta’s most impressive peaks.

The trail begins just East of the Banff Park Boundary, in a landscape shaped by wildfire, where vibrant regrowth and open views gradually transition into a forested valley alongside Thompson Creek. For many visitors, the Lower Falls provide an ideal family-friendly destination, with a relatively easy hike leading to a picturesque waterfall with natural pools.

Those looking for a longer adventure can continue to Thompson Falls, a pair of striking twin waterfalls framed by unique rock formations reminiscent to the famous statues of Easter Island. This moderate hike showcases the dramatic geology and rugged beauty that define the region.

For experienced backcountry travellers, Thompson Creek serves as the primary approach to Mount Cline (11,027 ft/3,361 m), the highest peak in the Bighorn region. The route passes the stunning Cline Tarns and the Cline Glacier before reaching the summit. Mount Resolute and the White Goat Peaks, can also be accessed from the Lower Falls area, providing multiple exceptional alpine objectives.