Rivers: For prices and more information please see Guided Fishing Excursions

Carbondale River:

Located south of town, it lies in the burn area from the Lost Creek Fire of 2003. Sections remain untouched, while in other areas standing black trees still exist. Access to this river is moderate, with some steeper slopes and deadfall.  The river contains some of the larger Cutthroat and Rainbows in the area, Bulltrout are also present.  Large numbers of Cutt-Bow presented themselvesin the last few years.

Castle River:

Located south of town, the headwaters are South and West Castle Rivers.  A popular campsite is located near the confluence.  Upper sections have moderate access, sections near the campgrounds are easier, but fishing is not as productive.  Cutthroat and Bulls are typically found, with some Rainbow, and Cutt-bows. Most fish average 18-20 inches, Bulls are commonly found at 20+ inches.  Currently holds the provincial record for Cutthroat trout at 9.56 lbs. Caught in 1988.

Crowsnest River:

Running directly through the five towns of the Crowsnest Pass makes this is an excellent river stop, even if only for a few moments.  The upper section is filled with small Rainbows up to 20 inches.  Further down Browns and Bulls can be found.  Matching the hatch on this river is essential as its easy access points allow pressure in peak season.

 

Lynx Creek:

The largest creek to enter the Carbondale River, Lynx Creek is teaming with smaller Cutthroat, up to 15 inches.  It’s easily accessed at many points and areas the fire had scorched reveals many otherwise hidden holes.  The sections the fire missed will test your ability to cast in tighter spaces.

Oldman River:

One of the largest rivers in the area, it is no surprise this river also contains some of the larger fish.  All types of stream trout are found here in their specific sections.  Cutthroats and Rainbows up to 25 inches have been found, Bulls near the 30 inch mark.  Access varies from easy to difficult depending on specific sites.  The area known as “The Gap” provides a beautiful view of the river flowing between two mountains, fairly easy access and average success.  

Mountain Trails: For prices and more information please see Guided Hiking Excursions

Hastings Ridge: 

The Adanac summit.  This hike will take you to a long abandoned mine site at the peak of the ridge top. It offers a 360 degree view with mountains to the west, plains to the east and on a clear day the edge of Waterton National Park can be seen.

Approximate time:          4 Hours both ways

Difficulty: 

3/5- Uneven ground, rocky terrain, overall steady incline

 

Lille:

Hidden in the valley just north of the Frank Slide, sits the former town site of Lille.  Little remains of the once active area still exist, foundations can be found, coking ovens, remnants of a graveyard, and perhaps the most famous, a fire hydrant. Early spring walks down this trail are a must for flora lovers as glacier lilies and paintbrush consume the hillsides. This area is a provincial historic site and so leaving this area undisturbed for future users is essential.

Approximate time:          4 Hours both ways

Difficulty                             

3/5- short steep sections, bridged creek crossings, rocky terrain.

 

Highline Trail:

Located at the edge of Blairmore, this light hike offers an amazing view of the valley below, and a side view of the infamous Turtle Mountain. Crowsnest Mountain, Seven Sisters Mountain, and Tecumseh Mountain are also visible.  It follows an abandoned mine trail, and evidence of the operation can be seen as a few remaining cables and coal car pieces line the path.  This is also one of the more likely areas to spot a mountain lion, although these majestic beasts usually keep to themselves.

Approximate time:          3 hours both ways

Difficulty:                           

2/5- steady incline, uneven ground, narrow trail

 

Miners Path:

The trail head begins at the edge of Coleman, following the Nes Pierce creek . This is the exact path former mine workers once walked daily to start their work.  It is a maintained trail and stunning scenery is found along the way, highlighted by a small waterfall.

Approximate time:          2 hours both ways

Difficulty:                            

1/5- mostly level, stairs at steeper sections, maintained trail, possible creek crossings.

 

 

Star Creek:   

                      
Hidden in Coleman’s outskirt to the west, the Star creek trail is often missed by those unfamiliar to the area as it is not visible from the highway, or well marked. The trailhead begins at the edge of town and meanders south through a small canyon to a waterfall. Further up a second, much larger set of falls can be found, although accessing the upper falls can vary with seasons.

Approximate time:

2-3 hours both ways- condition dependant

Difficulty:   

2/5- mostly level, unmaintained trail, possible creek crossing.

 

 

*All destinations are condition and weather dependant. Alternate sites may be available or suggested in the event of adverse weather, stream flow or trail deterioration.