Under recent Government of Alberta infrastructure funding announcements, Alberta Parks is moving forward with upgrades to West Bragg Creek Provincial Recreation Area. The attractive trail system combined with population growth has contributed to significant increases in visitation at West Bragg Creek PRA. At the same time the site has not undergone any major improvements since the 1980s. Alberta Parks recognizes the need to expand the parking lot and modernize trailhead amenities to address site issues.

These upgrades are intended to reduce parking lot congestion and user conflict, create safe emergency access, improve the all-season trailhead experience for a variety of users, help the Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association and Parks staff maintain the trail system, and benefit local economic development.

Upgrades include:

• Parking lot expansion and paving with a total capacity of 485 including:
  • 475 public parking stalls
  • Eight pull-through stalls in a separate equestrian parking area
  • Two designated bus stalls
  • Designated emergency lane
• Perimeter trail for easy access to the surrounding trailheads
• Enhanced trailhead amenities including:
  • Signage and kiosks
  • Benches
  • Designated meeting locations
  • Three washrooms (four vault toilet stalls/washroom)
  • Waste and recycling receptacles
  • Two 10x10 foot designated sites for event tents
• Maintenance compound and addition of electrical power for trail equipment storage and servicing
• Permanent location for the Trail Centre operated and funded by the Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association
• Designated instruction area for skills training and small-scale event staging
• No parking on the North side of the access road 

For further information about the Project, please see the below Frequently Asked Questions, maps, and design.

Public Access and Construction

Construction is being staged as best as possible to allow continued access to the site. The majority of construction will occur between March 29^th and June 30^th prior to the peak summer months of July and August. The parking lot will be closed for a three day period March 29^th to 31^st. Remaining construction will be minimal and is expected to be completed in the fall. 

Parking will be limited during construction to about 80-90 parking spots and there may be periodic closures. While efforts are being made to stage construction and allow for safe public parking and access, limited spots will be available. Please check out Alberta Parks Advisories for up to date information on construction. 

• Alberta Parks encourages trail users to explore other areas during the construction period. Kananaskis Country has over 1,550 kilometers of trails to hike, bike, or ride during the summer.
• The West Bragg Creek trail system can also be accessed from alternative staging areas including Allen Bill Day Use and Fullerton Day Use in the Elbow Valley, along Highway 66.
• Experienced downhill mountain bike riders are encouraged to explore the Moose Mountain Area accessed from Highway 66.

Alberta Parks understands that limited access is difficult when the sun is starting to shine and we want to hit the trails with friends and family. We ask users to be patient, to access the trail system from alternative sites, to explore other areas, and to remember that impacts to access are short-term, but the improvements will be long-term. 

Media Contacts:

Environment and Parks
AEP.Mediainquiries@gov.ab.ca 

If you have an issue reaching the shared mailbox, please call 780 427-8636.

Further Information:

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Map of West Bragg Creek PRA – Existing
• Map of West Bragg Creek PRA – Regional
• Design

Read the ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ and still have questions?

• Public inquiries can be directed to: Kananaskis.Projects@gov.ab.ca 
• Please use the subject line: West Bragg Creek