Alberta Trail Journal - Day Trips and Overlanding Reports

[JAI STYLES]

Whats up everyone! Since picking up my Bronco in late August 2025, I have been exploring different trails around Alberta, and seeing how far I can push the Big Bend, and myself.

I am fairly new to wheelin' but I grew up in the mountains, so naturally I became heavily invested in enjoying this awesome machine, and the beautiful landscape I get to call home.

I have created a list of trails and destinations I want to continue exploring, so what better place to document the trips, and invite any locals to participate.

Anyways, enough blabbing, here are my reports from the trails I've managed to get out to.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------



LIVINGSTONE FALLS - September

2/10 Difficulty (Dry) - Biggest Challenge "loose shelf road sections"

The route to Livingstone Falls leads to a wonderful and quiet campground with some basic ammenities, but more importantly, it’s a fun and beautiful drive to get there. The fall colors were excellent this trip, and the temperture was just cold enough to keep the bugs away. This was the first time car camping in the Bronco, and I can say that it was FAR more comfrotable to sleep inside the cabin, than I expected. I am 6'2" and can fit laying down in the back, with my wife next to me, and didnt feel tight or uncomfortable. The space was great.


* * * * * * * * * * *


SPRAY LAKES - Kananaskis to Canmore Trail (Kan-Can) August/November

1/10 Difficulty - Biggest Challenge "washboard roads" in dry sections

This trail is techincally EASY, but it is incredibly beautiful. I went twice in two different seasons to see the difference, and they are both so incredible. Great for short day trips through Kananaskis, or an extra long route from Calgary to Canmore. The long winding turns are actually more fun in the snow!


* * * * * * * * * * *


TRANSALTA TRAIL - GHOST PLUZ - September (no water crossing)

3/10 Difficulty (dry) - Biggest Challenges "loose rock and steep road leading to river valley"

This is one of my favorite trails/area of Alberta for a weekend trip, to test the vehicles, enjoy the views, and have a great time disconnecting from the work grind. Along the route are several small hill challenges and obstacles to practice on.

Enthusiasts say that the best time of year to go is the winter to see the walls freeze and create a beautiful ice wall. I am certainly eager to go check it out in a few weeks when the snow is packed down tighter and the temp drops lower.

This trail also leads to a short, fun and tight trail called DEVILS GAP.


* * * * * * * * * * *


DEVILS GAP - September

3/10 Difficulty (dry) - Biggest Challenge "tight trail, with large ruts" (Nearly no incline)

This trail is not super challenging, but it was my first exposure to large ruts, and made me wonder how well the stock ride height would fair on the Big Bend. Luckily no rubbing, so this trail could easily be achieved by most stock 4x4's. Great introduction trail for someone newer to the scene or those with less intense vehicles.

Short trail, so great addition to Transalta trail (without the full run to the falls)


* * * * * * * * * * *


POWDERFACE TRAIL - October

2/10 Difficulty (dry)- Biggest Challenge "slick inclines in wet season"

This trail is technIcally EASY, bending nicely in the turns and offers a fun driving experience without too much sweating. Only used 4H in wet/loose inclines. Great mix of views and relaxing fun. Another good day trip, but I would mix in another trail with this one to have a more full day of off-roading.



* * * * * * * * * * *



MCLEAN CREEK TRAIL - November

1/10 Difficulty (Dry) 2.5/10 Difficulty (Snow)- Biggest Challenge "Tight Turns require snow tires"

This trail is technically EASY in the dry, but does require a snow rated tire, or a true snow tire, to comfortably enjoy this trail. The trail itself is short, however its the heart to all the awesome OHV trails that are attached to it, and is fun to drive all on its own.

I have driven this road the most as it leads to all the OHV trails that I want to take on in the next season.

* * * * * * * * * * *


MCLEAN CREEK OHV TRAILS - (various trails)

3-5/10 Difficulty (Dry) 4-6/10 Difficulty (Wet)- Biggest Challenge "large holes and ruts, steep tight hills, very slippery/muddy when wet"

These trails are definitely not for newbies, but I was stubborn and impressed by the Big Bend so far, so I gave it a shot. Most trails are filled with mud ruts, big puddles, have tighter sections, steep inclines, you name it.

McLean Creek is known for its off road recreation area, and the OHV trails here are incredible! I have yet to even scratch the surface, but the few I have done so far have tested the big bends limits, and have given me plenty of technical learning experiences.

Not all trails here are equals, so beware of the season you go. Some trails double in difficulty with some slick wet snow in the mix.



* * * * * * * * * * *


Well that’s it for now! Check in on the next post for new trail reports, and/or If anyone wants to tag along on future trail adventures, hit me up!





Next up...


- TRANSALTA FALLS (winter)

- QUIRK RIDGE

- TOP OF THE WORLD

- LOST KNIFE

- WAIPAROUS VALLEY ROAD

- WAIPAROUS VALLEY LOOKOUT

- FARNHAM GLACIER

- MCDONALD CREEK

- GLACIER CREEK FSR

- MOUNTAIN MEADOW


————————————————————


I'd also love to see anyone elses experiences in the various trails around Alberta. The overlanding community in the area is great, but I want to see where the Alberta Bronco community is exploring.




Until the next post

Sponsored

 

[23OBX2.7]

Other than that Mclean creek access trails frequented and accessible by 4X4 (we do about 40 mph on them on our bikes) none of them are usable by 4X4 unless want to totally ruin your Bronco in an hour. At best they are quad tracks many of which even quads have problem with the ruts, roots, rocks, slopes and dips etc.

Unfortunately in AB most of the the 4X4 accessible tracks are locked off by Oil & Gas and forestry companies so need some bolt cutters haha whereas if you head to Kootneys in BC, like around Nakusp etc, there are endless open forestry roads and unlimited scenery that won't rip up your Bronco. Lots of gravel roads and scenery though otherwise.

 

[TLO]

Whats up everyone! Since picking up my Bronco in late August 2025, I have been exploring different trails around Alberta, and seeing how far I can push the Big Bend, and myself.

I am fairly new to wheelin' but I grew up in the mountains, so naturally I became heavily invested in enjoying this awesome machine, and the beautiful landscape I get to call home.

I have created a list of trails and destinations I want to continue exploring, so what better place to document the trips, and invite any locals to participate.

Anyways, enough blabbing, here are my reports from the trails I've managed to get out to.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------



LIVINGSTONE FALLS - September

2/10 Difficulty (Dry) - Biggest Challenge "loose shelf road sections"

The route to Livingstone Falls leads to a wonderful and quiet campground with some basic ammenities, but more importantly, it’s a fun and beautiful drive to get there. The fall colors were excellent this trip, and the temperture was just cold enough to keep the bugs away. This was the first time car camping in the Bronco, and I can say that it was FAR more comfrotable to sleep inside the cabin, than I expected. I am 6'2" and can fit laying down in the back, with my wife next to me, and didnt feel tight or uncomfortable. The space was great.


* * * * * * * * * * *


SPRAY LAKES - Kananaskis to Canmore Trail (Kan-Can) August/November

1/10 Difficulty - Biggest Challenge "washboard roads" in dry sections

This trail is techincally EASY, but it is incredibly beautiful. I went twice in two different seasons to see the difference, and they are both so incredible. Great for short day trips through Kananaskis, or an extra long route from Calgary to Canmore. The long winding turns are actually more fun in the snow!


* * * * * * * * * * *


TRANSALTA TRAIL - GHOST PLUZ - September (no water crossing)

3/10 Difficulty (dry) - Biggest Challenges "loose rock and steep road leading to river valley"

This is one of my favorite trails/area of Alberta for a weekend trip, to test the vehicles, enjoy the views, and have a great time disconnecting from the work grind. Along the route are several small hill challenges and obstacles to practice on.

Enthusiasts say that the best time of year to go is the winter to see the walls freeze and create a beautiful ice wall. I am certainly eager to go check it out in a few weeks when the snow is packed down tighter and the temp drops lower.

This trail also leads to a short, fun and tight trail called DEVILS GAP.


* * * * * * * * * * *


DEVILS GAP - September

3/10 Difficulty (dry) - Biggest Challenge "tight trail, with large ruts" (Nearly no incline)

This trail is not super challenging, but it was my first exposure to large ruts, and made me wonder how well the stock ride height would fair on the Big Bend. Luckily no rubbing, so this trail could easily be achieved by most stock 4x4's. Great introduction trail for someone newer to the scene or those with less intense vehicles.

Short trail, so great addition to Transalta trail (without the full run to the falls)


* * * * * * * * * * *


POWDERFACE TRAIL - October

2/10 Difficulty (dry)- Biggest Challenge "slick inclines in wet season"

This trail is technIcally EASY, bending nicely in the turns and offers a fun driving experience without too much sweating. Only used 4H in wet/loose inclines. Great mix of views and relaxing fun. Another good day trip, but I would mix in another trail with this one to have a more full day of off-roading.



* * * * * * * * * * *



MCLEAN CREEK TRAIL - November

1/10 Difficulty (Dry) 2.5/10 Difficulty (Snow)- Biggest Challenge "Tight Turns require snow tires"

This trail is technically EASY in the dry, but does require a snow rated tire, or a true snow tire, to comfortably enjoy this trail. The trail itself is short, however its the heart to all the awesome OHV trails that are attached to it, and is fun to drive all on its own.

I have driven this road the most as it leads to all the OHV trails that I want to take on in the next season.

* * * * * * * * * * *


MCLEAN CREEK OHV TRAILS - (various trails)

3-5/10 Difficulty (Dry) 4-6/10 Difficulty (Wet)- Biggest Challenge "large holes and ruts, steep tight hills, very slippery/muddy when wet"

These trails are definitely not for newbies, but I was stubborn and impressed by the Big Bend so far, so I gave it a shot. Most trails are filled with mud ruts, big puddles, have tighter sections, steep inclines, you name it.

McLean Creek is known for its off road recreation area, and the OHV trails here are incredible! I have yet to even scratch the surface, but the few I have done so far have tested the big bends limits, and have given me plenty of technical learning experiences.

Not all trails here are equals, so beware of the season you go. Some trails double in difficulty with some slick wet snow in the mix.



* * * * * * * * * * *


Well that’s it for now! Check in on the next post for new trail reports, and/or If anyone wants to tag along on future trail adventures, hit me up!





Next up...


- TRANSALTA FALLS (winter)

- QUIRK RIDGE

- TOP OF THE WORLD

- LOST KNIFE

- WAIPAROUS VALLEY ROAD

- WAIPAROUS VALLEY LOOKOUT

- FARNHAM GLACIER

- MCDONALD CREEK

- GLACIER CREEK FSR

- MOUNTAIN MEADOW


————————————————————


I'd also love to see anyone elses experiences in the various trails around Alberta. The overlanding community in the area is great, but I want to see where the Alberta Bronco community is exploring.




Until the next post

Beautiful Alberta! Thanks for sharing!

 

[ArcticBronco]

You'll need a 33" AT tire, but Ruby Falls would be the next step up in difficulty and it's very scenic.

 

[Felix808]

Looks like an Awesome area. Thanks for sharing

 

[SwampCactus]

Cool pics and love that sand color.

 

[SeptuagenarianSasquatch]

Looks like fun. I'll borrow my daughter's Subaru for those trails roads. If I took my Badlands, the Canadian Border Guards would probably flag my truck because of that Montreal parking ticket I refuse to pay. ($C60 fine + $C31 "Service Fee." Not sure about what an appropriate gratuity would be.)
Alberta is the one Canadian destination I'd consider visiting.

 

[JAI STYLES]

You'll need a 33" AT tire, but Ruby Falls would be the next step up in difficulty and it's very scenic.

My winters are (nearly) 33’s, but post winter I’m going to get some 35’s and lift her up. Ruby Falls sounds like a great spot! Gotta check it out.

 

[JAI STYLES]

Other than that Mclean creek access trails frequented and accessible by 4X4 (we do about 40 mph on them on our bikes) none of them are usable by 4X4 unless want to totally ruin your Bronco in an hour. At best they are quad tracks many of which even quads have problem with the ruts, roots, rocks, slopes and dips etc.

Unfortunately in AB most of the the 4X4 accessible tracks are locked off by Oil & Gas and forestry companies so need some bolt cutters haha whereas if you head to Kootneys in BC, like around Nakusp etc, there are endless open forestry roads and unlimited scenery that won't rip up your Bronco. Lots of gravel roads and scenery though otherwise.

Definitely heading out to BC to check out some new spots. Lived in Vancouver for years before getting my Bronco, so I definitely need to head back for some adventures.

 

[donnyronny]

Definitely heading out to BC to check out some new spots. Lived in Vancouver for years before getting my Bronco, so I definitely need to head back for some adventures.

On the island near Sprout lake theres lots of open logging roads that are a blast to shred. the road up to Twin peaks is a lot of fun.

 

[the poacher]

Other than that Mclean creek access trails frequented and accessible by 4X4 (we do about 40 mph on them on our bikes) none of them are usable by 4X4 unless want to totally ruin your Bronco in an hour. At best they are quad tracks many of which even quads have problem with the ruts, roots, rocks, slopes and dips etc.

Unfortunately in AB most of the the 4X4 accessible tracks are locked off by Oil & Gas and forestry companies so need some bolt cutters haha whereas if you head to Kootneys in BC, like around Nakusp etc, there are endless open forestry roads and unlimited scenery that won't rip up your Bronco. Lots of gravel roads and scenery though otherwise.

Don't listen to him, nothing to see in B.C. at all. Definitely way better 4x4'ing in Saskatchewan!

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