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Spend a Winter Day in Bragg Creek

 
Photo by Travel Alberta
Photo by Travel Alberta

Photo by Heart of Bragg Creek
Photo by Heart of Bragg Creek

Bragg Creek is one of the absolute gems of the Alberta Foothills, the closest Cool Little Town to the Rocky Mountains and a very short drive from Calgary, making it the perfect place for a day trip to infuse some nature, small town vibes and whimsy into your winter weekends. A day trip to Bragg Creek can be as jam packed or relaxed as you make it. From outdoor adventures with afternoons spent refueling in the cafés in town to leisurely strolls popping into shops, grabbing lunch and exploring the absolutely quaint townscape. Read on to discover some of the best spots to check out.



Get Some Coffee

There is no better way to gear up for a brisk morning outside or warm up from the trails than a cup of coffee. Bragg Creek has some delicious local options, including the Bragg Creek Bakery, Cinnamon Spoon, and Handle Bar Cafe and Bistro. If you are looking for vegan goodies to keep you fueled on the trails, Heart of Bragg Creek has you covered with great coffee and local favourites including pastries, loaded bagels and avocado toast.



Photo by Travel Alberta - Handle Bar Cafe & Bistro
Photo by Travel Alberta - Handle Bar Cafe & Bistro

Get Outside

The Bragg Creek area is perfect for avid outdoor enthusiasts and newbies alike. The winter is a perfect time to explore the many trails on foot, x-country ski, or snowshoe. The Bragg Creek Trails are popular and well used in every season and with their well marked multi-use network, there is an excursion for every kind of outing. There are some well known and loved hikes you can explore year round, with proper planning and equipment.  Fullerton Loop is an easy trail with minimal elevation gain yet delivers sweeping mountain views. There’s also Beaver Flats Interpretive Trail, a short but immersive stroll that showcases the area's rich ecosystems and wildlife. Experienced hikers might like to tackle Prairie Mountain, a challenging out-and-back route that rewards with breathtaking views of the Elbow River Valley and the Rockies.  For stunning accessible views, the frozen Elbow Falls are particularly gorgeous this time of year, with a short, flat trail to the viewing area!




Photo by Travel Alberta - West Bragg Creek
Photo by Travel Alberta - West Bragg Creek

Get Some Grub

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch or great take away, there is something for every kind of day. If you’re looking for quintessential Bragg Creek experiences, The Italian Farmhouse, The Bav + Tav at The Bavarian Inn, and Creekers Bistro & Restaurant are three beloved classics where you can go to experience charming atmosphere and great food. The Italian Farmhouse is well known for its farmhouse ambiance, and rustic, heart-warming food including delicious pastas and pizzas. The Bav + Tav (formerly The Bavarian Inn  before a fresh name in 2020) has been treating Creekers and tourists alike  since 1999. Serving up a fusion of traditional German fare with modern Rocky Mountain inspirations. Their menu is seasonal, local and rotating. The Bav + Tav is a great spot to enjoy a meal whether you’re dressed up or ready for the trails. For a different spin on German-inspired fare, Von Essen is new to the Bragg Creek culinary scene, but is making quite a splash with authentic German dishes, a warm and welcoming atmosphere and passionate local owners.



Photo by Travel Alberta - The Bav + Tav
Photo by Travel Alberta - The Bav + Tav

Go Shopping

No trip to Bragg Creek is complete without a stroll through the shops. This vibrant hub is a treasure trove of truly local stores and galleries, offering everything from antiques and books to handcrafted gifts and home decor.  Explore charming boutiques like Crabapple Cottage, discover literary gems at The Best Little Wordhouse in the West, and find unique home goods, souvenirs and art at Misty Creek Home Store, One of A Kind, The Painted Moose Artist Collective, The Bragg Creek Trading Post Ltd, and Suncatchers Design Studio.




Grab a Drink

After a day of exploring the trails or browsing the shops, Bragg Creek serves up some great spots to unwind with a refreshing drink. For a taste of local craft brews, head to Bragg Creek Distillers and Cowboy Trail Brewery where you can sample their handcrafted spirits and beers (open Thursday - Saturday). If you're in the mood for a western bar atmosphere, the Powderhorn Saloon is a Bragg Creek institution with a lively vibe and a wide selection of beverages. For a more laid-back setting, the Handle-Bar Café & Bistro offers a comfortable atmosphere where you can grab a glass of wine, a local beer or a coffee. No matter your preference, you're sure to find the perfect spot to relax and quench your thirst in Bragg Creek.



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