About 50 volunteers and hiking enthusiasts gathered at the base of Allison Falls on Friday to celebrate the official opening and completion of the Allison Falls Trail in Crowsnest Pass.

The project, which spanned from spring 2024 to October 2025, was supported by over 150 volunteers who contributed 1,127 hours of work across 26 volunteer trail days. 

Volunteers ranged from experienced to first-time builders, consisting of active locals, tourists, school groups and recreation groups keen on improving accessibility in the area. Every volunteer hour was appreciated.

“A project like this wouldn’t happen without all the support of volunteers and contributing organizations, so it was exciting to gather together to celebrate the trail opening,” says Jenice Smith, Alberta Hiking Association’s Crowsnest project co-ordinator.

The new trail spans 1.5 kilometres, connecting the Atlas Staging Area to Rainbow Road. It links routes that lead toward Allison Creek Fish Hatchery, Allison-Chinook Lake Campground and the Great Divide Trail. 

At its centre is a new bridge and lookout over Allison Creek, offering hikers a front-row view of the falls and surrounding peaks.

“This area is so well loved by both locals and visitors alike, so having a proper trail that connects these places really helps protect the landscape while giving people a safe, sustainable way to explore it,” Jenice says.

The Allison Falls Trail celebration began with a few words from Jenice and representatives of contributing groups, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a self-guided 2.5-kilometre walk.

Representatives from the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, the Alberta government and other key organizations joined in thanking volunteers for their dedication to the project.

In addition to sharing highlights of the project’s development, Jenice briefed attendees on the new interpretive sign developed in partnership with the Crowsnest Museum. The sign shares details of the historic McLaren Lumber Mill Flume, a 9½-kilometre structure built in 1900 to move logs to Blairmore.

Jenice hopes to continue building on recent trail-building efforts and that more people will support future trail-improvement projects.

“We welcome everyone to continue the volunteer trail-building momentum. There’s a place for everyone, whether you’re new to trail work or experienced, it’s a great way to make a difference,” she says.

To learn more about upcoming volunteer opportunities in the area organized by the Alberta Hiking Association, visit Crowsnest Trails – Alberta Hiking Association on Facebook or contact Jenice directly at crowsnesthikingcoord@gmail.com. 

Laine Rodgers and Glen Girhiny hold the ceremonial ribbon right before trail builders Holden Lach and Norah Smith cut it, as Jenice Smith looks on with delight. | Photo courtesy of Jenice Smith