Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area

Beautiful day walking the snowy trails around the site. Trails were a bit slippery and uneven so I recommend wearing crampons in the winter. We only saw maybe 5 people over the whole day and walked one of the smaller loops at 8km total distance. We managed to get some good photos on our cameras of mule and white-tailed deer but be aware that it is currently rutting season and to maintain your distance. The mountains look fantastic and were covered in snow. For the best views you'll need to hike to the most western lookout which can be a bit of trek if you're not expecting it.I see some comments here that the payment is unexpected and doesn't contribute to the management of this space. Yes, there is a 10$ donation for parking per vehicle or you can get annual passes. You can pay via PayPal or drop your cash into the box. This money helps to support A&S so if you're going, don't whine about supporting conservation for the space you are using. Also be sure to register your names at the kiosk in the big book before heading in!Other things to know (from the A&S website):1) Everyone who uses the area must register at our kiosk.2) Groups of 10 or more must book their hike in advance online.3) The ASCCA is closed between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m.4) Horses, dogs or other pets are not allowed on site.5) The operation of drones is prohibited.6) Cars, bicycles, and other vehicles are not allowed.7) Access the ASCCA from the lower parking lot only.8) Camping, fires and smoking are not allowed.9) Hunting and discharging firearms are prohibited.10) Snowshoeing is allowed, however, cross-country skiing is not permitted.11) There are no garbage cans on the trails. Please pack out what you pack in.12) Stay on the trails and keep a respectful distance from the wildlife.13) Be respectful towards other hikers, ASCCA staff and volunteers.14) Leave everything in its place. Do not disturb plants or remove anything in nature.

What an incredibly beautiful place to immerse yourself into. A real slice of heaven minutes from the city. It is a gift from Ann and Sandy Cross that will continue to give for years to come.

Absolutely gorgeous area. Glad to see a place like this is protected from development. Great variety of trails. Take your camera. Great mountain and city views.

This is a beautiful nature preserve and presents some challenging terrain!Really enjoyed the beautiful evening. Excellent weather and amazing scenery!

Been there twice and it was a great experience both times.There is a fee for supporting the area so remember to bring cash (think its $10). No dogs allowed.The area is beautiful and I think its worth going - especially if you want to go for a walk in a quiet place without having to drive far from Calgary.There are benches strategically placed along the trails, great for having lunch while admiring the nice views.

Such a beautiful place. Went on a 9KM hike with friends and it was really beautiful. You will need $10 cash for parking. You can also plan to carpool with friends as there very few parking slots available. This is the kind of place you see in pictures and movies looking so naturally beautiful. The trail within the Area is also not busy.

Lovely place to go for a hike. You can go as long as 37 KMS or shorter ones. Chances are you will get to see deer, lots of birds and racoons and other animals. The parking lot has enough space and the parking fee/entrance to the conservatory is $10, and there are different ways to pay at the registration booth. Please know that Dogs ARE NOT ALLOWED as they disturb the other animals in the area. The views from this place are pretty magical. When you walk around the trails you just feel so peaceful.

Seemed like a nice place to go for a hike with stunning views and amazing wildlife encounters. The parking lot was mostly open and there is a $10 fee to park with a envelope to “voluntarily” make a payment to the City of Calgary although you are in Foothills County. Good luck with that scam!

I love this place. Great natural beauty literally minutes from Calgary. Lots of trails with variable difficulty. All can be hiked within a half day. Some much quicker.The wildlife here is plentiful. You can see deer, birds and butterflies. Sometimes you might see elk. I’ve never seen a bear here but I’m told they visit so pepper spray is recommended.If you visit, enjoy!

Very pretty grasslands. This is a perfect place for someone trying to build up their fitness levels. People who hike in the Rockies will find these trails way too easy.