Canmore is renowned for its beautiful walks with the Policeman’s Creek Trail being one of the most popular ones. You can bask in the serene beauty of nature while walking down the 2km long Policeman’s Creek Trail which dives into the heart of downtown Canmore. If you wish to travel from one end of Canmore to another while bypassing the traffic, then this gravel filled walk can serve you best. You can choose among multiple entry points for entering the Policeman Creek Boardwalk which connects with the town’s trail system.
Starting Point & Parking At The Policeman Creek Boardwalk
While you can enter the Policeman’s Creek Trail from multiple points, the intersection near the Spring Creek Drive and Main Street is the most popular one. This is at the exact opposite of the Big Head sculpture. You can walk southwards along the boardwalk from here. You can enjoy on-street parking at the Spring Creek’s residential area and also anywhere in the town. There is a public car parking slot offering ample parking options between 7th and 8th Streets.
Variations In Trail Walking
If you are running short of time, then you can take the 1.3km loop starting opposite the Big Head sculpture. You need to keep travelling south until you come across a bridge. From here you can turn right and return down the creek’s other side by crossing the bridge. For a longer walk, you can start from Spring Creek Drive’s south end and traverse the entire the trail’s length. The route runs for 2km alongside the Policeman’s Creek. You can turn back on reaching the 17th Street.
Also, read our article on how to spend a day in Canmore?
Perfect Time To Visit The Policemans Creek
While the Policeman’s Creek stays open throughout the year, the greenery becomes most vibrant during spring and summer months. During fall, the aspen attains a vivid hue of yellow making the trail look enchanting. You are bound to fall in love with the trail during winter months as the creek freezes transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. If you manage the reach the Policeman Creek during sunrise, then you can enjoy the raw beauty of nature while avoiding the crowd.
Safety Rules At Policemans Creek, Canmore
You need to be extra cautious while passing the Policemans Creek Boardwalk during winter months. During this time it remains loaded with ice and might become slippery. There is another risk from approaching wildlife like elk and bear. While you can carry dogs along, they should always be on a leash.
Attractions Near Policemans Creek Boardwalk, Canmore
The first halt point is the coal-mine inspired pedestrian bridge lying halfway along the route. This looks magnificent against the backdrop of the rundle Mountain range. On crossing the bridge you will pass the Canmore Opera House replica. Make sure to take a halt and click some good photographs at the Northwest Mounted Police Barracks which ranges back to 1893. After you have completed you walk, head out to the Main Street for some lip-smacking delicacies. You won’t find any public washroom along the trail. However, you can head out to the 7th Avenue and corner of 9th Street for using a toilet.
Conclusion
The hike at Policeman’s Creek Trail is a pretty easy one which makes it well suited for travellers of all fitness and age levels. But if you wish to rest your tired legs, then there are plenty of benches along the way. Here you will be greeted by swimming ducks, singing birds and rich flora and fauna. You might be wishing to soak in the beauty of the mountains or take some photos of Ha Ling Peaks, Three Sisters and Mount Rundle. Policeman Creek Boardwalk at Canmore can offer you all these and keep you coming back for more.
