Trailblazers Camping & Outdoor Store

09/03/2026

🥾 Know What You’re Looking At: How to Read a Trail Map

Ever looked at a trail description and thought, “Okay… but what does all of that actually mean?” 😅

Distance is only part of the story! Before heading out, take a look at the elevation gain, route type, estimated time, terrain, and difficulty rating. A 5 km hike with lots of elevation can feel VERY different from a flat 5 km walk.

Understanding the information on a trail map can help you choose an adventure that matches your experience, fitness level, and the conditions of the day — and helps you know what to expect once you’re on the trail.

📍 A few things to check before you hit the trail:

• 📏 Distance: How far are you actually going?
• ⛰️ Elevation gain: How much climbing is involved?
• 🔄 Route type: Is it a loop, out-and-back, or point-to-point?
• ⏱️ Estimated time: How long might the hike take?
• 🪨 Terrain: What kind of trail and obstacles should you expect?
• 📈 Elevation profile: Where are those big climbs hiding?

Want to learn more about what all those trail details mean?

👉 Check out this helpful guide from Parks Canada:
https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/experiences/sports/randonnee-hiking/niveaux-sentiers-trail-ratings

Happy trails! 🌲🥾

Understand Parks Canada’s trail difficulty ratings and accessibility information and find trails that are right for you.

09/02/2026

🥾 How to Choose the Right Hike for Your Ability

Not every hike is created equal—and the longest trail isn't necessarily the hardest!

Before choosing your next adventure, take a look at more than just the distance. Consider:

• Distance: How many kilometres are you comfortable hiking?
• Elevation gain: A short trail with lots of climbing can be much more demanding than a longer, flatter route.
• Terrain: Rocky, steep, muddy, or uneven trails require more effort and experience.
• Time: Make sure you have enough daylight and time to complete the hike without rushing.
• Weather & conditions: The same trail can feel completely different depending on the season and weather.
• Your group: Choose a route that everyone in your group can comfortably manage.

The goal isn't to pick the hardest trail—it's to choose an adventure that matches your experience, fitness, conditions, and the time you have available.

We've put together a guide to help you figure out what to look for when choosing your next hike. 👇

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/hiking-for-beginners.html

Happy trails!

Hiking is simple but some basic knowledge is required: Learn how to choose a hike, what gear and clothing you need and other essentials.

09/01/2026

This part of the world is well known for being the setting for many movies and shows ... get out and see them for yourself!

"A camera can pretty well pan 360 degrees and there's not one single view that's bad."

08/31/2026

Looks like there's some rainy day coming up in Kananaskis this week, but don't let that ruin your end of summer camping trip! Here's some ideas to make your camping trip as good as it can be. Don't forget to swing by Trailblazers for any gear you might not have yet!

Camping in the rain doesn't have to ruin your trip. A camping mom shares her best tips and gear recommendations for camping in wet weather comfortably.

08/30/2026

Planning a road trip? Why not visit one of the most stunning lakes we have? Here's a list of a few that are worth the drive.

Alberta is more than just mountains and prairies. The lakes in Alberta are pretty breathtaking as well! Here are 21 of the most beautiful lakes in the province.

08/29/2026

Wanting to strengthen yourself for hiking? Here's some ways to be able to train!

Learn how to do a few basic strength-training exercises to prepare you for hiking; this article also offers a simple workout plan and training tips.

08/27/2026

Looking for places to cycle? Check out some of these places! Don't forget to stop by Trailblazers for any gear you may be missing.

Wondering where some of the best places to cycle are within 75 - 90 min of Calgary? Here are 11 ideas including Drumheller, Red Deer & Banff.

08/25/2026

🐻 Bear Safety: It Starts Before You Hit the Trail

Living and spending time around Cochrane means sharing the outdoors with wildlife. A little preparation can go a long way toward preventing unwanted bear encounters.

Here are a few simple BearSmart reminders:

🗑️ Keep garbage secured. Garbage, food scraps and other attractants can draw bears into communities and campsites.
🍖 Don’t leave food or coolers unattended while camping or enjoying the outdoors.
🐕 Keep dogs under control and avoid letting them run ahead on trails.
🐻 Make noise and stay aware when travelling through areas where bears may be present.
🧴 Carry bear spray where it’s easily accessible, not buried at the bottom of your pack, and know how to use it before you need it.
🚫 Never approach or feed a bear. Give wildlife plenty of space and leave the area if you encounter one.

Being BearSmart isn't just about protecting ourselves — it's also about helping keep wildlife wild and out of trouble.

For more information on staying safe in bear and cougar country, check out the Government of Alberta's BearSmart guide.

🌲 Stay aware. Stay prepared. Enjoy the outdoors responsibly.

08/24/2026

End-of-summer adventures are winding down, but don’t forget to take care of your gear! 🏕️

A little cleaning, drying and proper storage now can help keep your gear in great shape for your next adventure.

Check out this helpful guide for some simple gear-care tips:
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/end-of-summer-gear-care.html

Learn how to take care of camping, hiking and other gear at the end of camping and hiking season. Get key tips on cleaning and storing gear, plus links to more in-depth care and repair articles.

08/20/2026

**Check Before You Trek 🥾🏔️**

Heading out into Kananaskis Country? Before you hit the trail, take a few minutes to **check the latest trail reports and advisories**.

Conditions can change quickly, and knowing what to expect helps keep you—and others—safe on the trails.

👉 Check the latest **Kananaskis Trail Reports** before you go: https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/kananaskis/kananaskis-country/advisories-and-public-safety/trail-reports/

**Check before you trek. Plan ahead. Stay safe.** 🌲

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