If you thought that the Kananaskis region doesn’t have enough kid-friendly spaces, then you need to visit Sheep River Falls. This easy-to-access destination is located in the Sheep River Valley, to the west of Millarville and Diamond Valley. While the setting is less dramatic than the Rockies, the rolling hills offer an excellent change of pace.
The main viewpoint is a crowd-puller and can get busy during weekends and holidays. But there are various quieter spots to enjoy the beauty of the falls in solitude. There are multiple picnic spots, and if you are lucky, then you get one near the top of the falls.
Reaching Sheep River Falls
The Sheep River Falls is located 40 kilometers west of Turner Valley along Highway 546. You will definitely enjoy an exciting drive as you wind through the foothills toward the front ranges of the Rockies. There are multiple scenic pull-offs along the way. The falls are a part of the Sheep River Provincial Park day-use area.
It has a large parking space, which can be spotted directly from the road. From this parking space you will have to walk just a few minutes to reach the falls. Travelers with mobility issues can easily enjoy Sheep River Falls directly from the parking spot. The parking lot also offers well-equipped toilets.
Enjoying the Sheep River Falls
Head out towards the falls to enjoy their beauty from a nice viewpoint. You can take strollers along the trail leading to the falls from the car parking lot. This walk suits kids and everyone who wants to stretch their legs. The best spot for enjoying the falls is from the rock ledge next to the cascade. You can even climb up it for enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the water below. Often visitors have spotted kayakers going over the edge of the falls.
The view from the top is extremely impressive. Climb down under the rocky shelf for a closer view of the falls. Although the walk here isn’t dangerous, you should still be cautious with your young kids. There is another viewpoint further up the hill. From here you can enjoy a wider view of the falls. There are some well-spaced benches for sitting and enjoying the surrounding scenery.
Best spots for beating the crowd
Want to spend a quiet time in the lap of nature? Keep walking past the benches along the walking trail, and you will come across a path that leads down towards the river. This path is pretty steep, but you can walk through it if you have enough time. You will next come across a secluded spot with a small beach where the dogs and kids can paddle.
There is no picnic bench over here, as this spot is less commercialized. However, you will love the small pebble beach, which is a hit among kids. You can scramble over some rocks and venture downstream for quieter spots.
Tips for Travelers
- A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required to park your vehicle in the Sheep River Falls parking spot.
- The road remains closed during winter months. It again reopens during the middle of May. It’s advisable to check out the current conditions of the road from the Alberta Parks website before planning your trip.
- Try to arrive early as the parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Wear comfortable shoes or hiking boots and bring layers as the weather changes frequently in mountains.
- Bring water and quick snacks along with you especially when visiting with the kids.
- Stay on marked trails and do not leave any traces behind.
- There is limited cell service, so plan ahead and download the maps in advance.
- Don’t forget to carry bear spray and know how to use it in case required.
