Cottonwood Park Trail

Length: 6.3km 

Elevation Gain: 142m

Rating: Moderate

Starting point: Trailhead starts just off of 60 Avenue west, before 25 Street.

This stunning (but surprisingly underused) trail through a nature preserve is just on the outskirts of the city. You can see the confluence of the St. Mary’s River and the Oldman River; on a clear day you can see Chief Mountain and the foothills - providing an excellent perspective of our region! Enjoy gorgeous views at the top of the park before dipping down on a path to the river. No dogs or bikes are allowed, making this a prime spot to enjoy bird watching and other wildlife.

Arrive prepared for this park as there are no amenities (bathrooms or water). And be sure to save some energy for the hike back to the top as the elevation comes all at once! It is possible to do some of it via stairs or via a slow switchback.

Please note:

• Cottonwood Park has a high concentration of Western Prairie Rattlesnakes - it is best to stick to the pathway and be aware of your surroundings as you explore this beautiful park.
• The AllTrails map includes some small portions that currently are not on well-trodden paths. We advise sticking to the main path.

Historical info

The name of this park comes from its beautiful and extensive Cottonwood forest. The park encompasses river valley, coulee and prairie elements. It was developed in the 1980s as part of the Urban Parks project, which greatly expanded the number of river valley parks in Lethbridge.

Thanks to Curtis Goodman of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre and Belinda Crowson of the Lethbridge Historical Society for contributing to the above information.