As part of Alberta’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Peter Lougheed Parks Discovery Centre's services are now reduced to information and washrooms. Currently, the lounge is closed.

Please note: We have been testing the new live grooming reporting system and for the time being updated grooming and tracksetting information may be found in the individual trail comments below and the interactive map link to the right. 

To search for most recent grooming on the Alberta Parks/Peter Lougheed report:

• Sort by activity type by clicking the top of the permitted activities column.
• You can also use the search box above the Trail Name column to search for specific trails.     

NOTE:   Warmer spring weather and longer days are beginning to take their toll on some of the snowshoe trails that travel over creeks and/or wet-marsh lands. As spring progresses and the melting process continues, the creek and bog crossings deteriorate and travel becomes more difficult and in some cases impassable. Carefully evaluate your trip and prepare to make other plans where/when this transition takes place and impacts your intended course.

April 18th:  Grooming has now concluded for the season.  On April 17th, well over 10cm's of new snow fell at higher elevations.  The snow base on higher elevation trails is generally still quite good, though there are some sun exposed spots that are fairly thin, and could melt out quickly when warm weather returns.  

The base is very thin and/or down to ice and bare ground in quite a number of places in the north end, as well as some of the middle trails.  Use extra caution on any trail north of Packers, as well as Boulton Creek and Morraine, as there are likely many sections of ice, with expanding bare spots in some areas.  Campground roads are being plowed throughout the Park. This will leave parts of Amos, Morraine, and possibly Sinclair, bare to ground, with crossings likely on Wheeler and Whiskey Jack as well.  Be aware that bear prints have been observed in multiple locations- carry bear spray and make extra noise when descending trails. 

The freeze thaw cycle has been the general trend for a few weeks, with daytime highs well above freezing.  The warm daytime temperatures will generally leave the trails icy in the mornings, softening as temperatures rise.  Warm temperatures have also brought out the Collembola (aka Springtails or Snow fleas), and when the temperatures warm up again, the tracks in some areas will be black where they have gathered by the thousands.

Additional Information:

Trails may be busy. Practice physical distancing where possible, and use masks when it isn't possible to safely distance. Be sure not to overestimate your ability when planning your trip: Humility can be a life saver. Plan for rapidly changing conditions and bring extra socks.