Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge — Local services in Alberta

This is a rare thing to find and something if you venture to see you will never forget. Don't get me wrong it is just a bridge, but the view, the hike, the smells, the road (trail) to the location and all part of the experience. Yes, it's just a bridge, but it's a marvel of engineering and simplicity randomly placed out in the middle of LITERALLY NOWHERE. It is elegant and simple yet you wonder how THEY ever got it there. The view is one of a kind and so are the few stops along the trail.

This is a place where you can take it all in under a minute yet you will likely spend a few just to reflect and take it all in.

Regardless if it is crowded or you find yourself alone it will have something to offer. When bussy you will find yourself people watching just to see others reactions and if you are lucky enough to find it not so busy it is majestic and ecstatic place.

It is limited to 20 persons at a time according to the signage, don't underestimate this as it's safety limit. This thing is overly safe, it is the comfort limit to the number of people trying to move at the same time on something that moves... It's a suspension bridge! But it is safe even for your youngest members of the family. Anything bigger then a cat will have issues “falling” as the railings are laced with smaller cables to keep you on deck. The surface is covered with an open mesh metal that provides 100% more traction then the path to the bridge.

The “path” is very well defined from the ROAD (no parking lot) to the bridge. But Take Note that it is a steep climb (walk) into the woods... If you can asend 30 flits of stairs then you can make it to the bridge. (even if that means taking a break each floor, the path is NOT easy but there were seniors with crutches who were willing to make the climb.)

It is recommended that you be able to traverse the type of obstacles that would be similar to claiming out of a ditch lined with Rocks. The path is not always a level-type surface. Some areas are both an incline as well as off-center (the path has a large crown to it) you will not want to take a stroller on this climb. Some areas are prone to being wet as the mountain collects snow and melts year-round and runs downhill.

If you hike often then this will be a quick stop and something to check off your bucket list. If you Don't hike often and want to see something you likely never have then bring water and plan on a 30/45 min hike in, and a 15/25min hike out (back down) plus however long you might hang out (pun intended).

Again No parking lot but the road is about five to six cars wide at the trailhead. The Spray Lakes trail can be accessed from Canmore just pasted the Nordic center, and will be about an hour drive! Yes an hour for the 25 ish km between the mountain goats and blind courvs and sometimes washboard on the road your likely and for safety going to go slow. Regardless you will enjoy the views. If you come off HWY 40 after entering Peter Lougheed Provincial Park you will enter the Spray lakes trail to your right and the first bit will be kind of paved then turn to Gravel ( most people will NOT want to take this road with any kind of trailer but if your camping anywhere along the road ( only allowed in Campsites) it is the preferred way in.

It is gravel and there are pot holes and such but a small car (during summer) can drive this road. The turns close to Canmore from the Dam down are tight and steep! For any vehicle but I personally have done it with a 38’ trailer on a semi (you need the entire road!!!! And can not have anyone pass you in Either direction but it can be done... Was moving product for...

Our visits to the Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge in Kananaskis—once in October 2024 and again in mid-December—offered two completely unique but equally breathtaking experiences.

In October, the autumn scenery was stunning, with vibrant fall colors painting the surrounding landscape. The hike to the bridge was moderate, with well-maintained trails, making it accessible for both kids and adults. The bridge itself provided incredible views of the creek and canyon below, and it felt like a peaceful escape into nature.

Returning in December, the bridge was a winter wonderland. Snow blanketed the trees, creating a magical atmosphere. While the trail was slightly more challenging due to icy patches, proper footwear and careful steps made it manageable. The crisp air and quiet beauty of the season added a sense of serenity to the experience.

Both visits were memorable, but the winter setting was particularly enchanting. Whether you’re seeking an adventure or a moment of tranquility, Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge delivers. It’s a perfect outing for families and friends looking to connect with nature year-round.

Tip: Check trail conditions before visiting, especially in winter, and bring appropriate gear. This hidden gem is worth...

Nice secluded suspended bridge. It looks like new or recently renovated. Well secured. Not too many people when we were there. The hike is short, maybe 5min through a zigzag trail, uphill. Like some mentioned it, getting there could be misleading, I did that mistake. At the intersection of highways 40 and 742, you turn into 742 and drive for about 2 kilometres to a another main intersection at « POCATERRA », you turn right , and you’re still on 742, because 742 doesn’t continue straight, but instead it takes a 90 degree turn at that spot. At first I didn’t pay attention to that and kept driving straight passed « POCATTERA », which took me to a different area and had to go back to the intersection. From there, there is a good section that is gravel. From the Pocaterra intersection to the site it’s about 6 kilometres (give or take). I didn’t see any signs but there were few cars parked on the side of the road, there is also a little creek coming down from...