Enjoying the Outdoors: The Best Parks and Trails in Calgary
Calgary is a great city to explore and enjoy nature. With its beautiful parks, trails, riverside views and stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone.
Here is a list of the city’s 12 best parks and trails to explore, from easy strolls to challenging hikes.
1. Fish Creek Provincial Park:
Located in south Calgary, this park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada. With over 80 kilometers of trails and pathways, it’s an ideal spot for walkers, runners, cyclists and birdwatchers alike. The Bow River runs through the park, providing spectacular views that are perfect for a picnic or just taking in the beauty of nature.
2. Nose Hill Natural Environment Park:
This huge grassland park is located in northwest Calgary and covers 1,129 hectares with more than 11 km of walking paths. It’s the perfect place to experience some of Alberta’s native grasslands and wildlife, as well as stunning views of the city skyline.
3. Bowmont Park:
Located in the northwest area of Calgary, Bowmont Park is an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. With over 20 kilometres of trails, it offers plenty of opportunity for hiking, biking and walking. It also features a large off-leash dog park that’s great for four-legged friends.
4. Weaselhead Flats Natural Area:
This natural area is located in southwest Calgary and covers 637 hectares along the Elbow River Valley. With more than nine kilometres of pathways, visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems including wetlands, meadows, forests and grasslands. It’s the perfect place to spot wildlife and explore the natural beauty of Calgary.
5. Confederation Park:
This popular park is located in northwest Calgary and is a great spot for a stroll or bike ride. With its scenic pathways, grassy fields and ponds, it’s an ideal place to relax or take in some of the city’s sights. There are also plenty of trails for those looking for a more challenging hike.
6. Edworthy Park:
Edworthy Park is located just outside of downtown Calgary on Bow River Valley Road. With over 10 kilometres of trails through forested areas, creekside pathways and breathtaking lookout points, this park is great for a leisurely walk or more challenging hikes.
7. Prince’s Island Park:
Prince’s Island Park is located in the heart of downtown Calgary and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. With its lush gardens, meandering pathways, and stunning views of the Bow River, it’s an ideal place to take a break from exploring the city.
8. Inglewood Bird Sanctuary:
The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is one of Calgary’s best places to experience nature. It covers over 125 acres of wetlands, woodlands, grasslands and ponds that are home to over 200 species of birds. There are also plenty of trails for those looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike.
9. North Glenmore Park:
North Glenmore Park is located in southwest Calgary and features over 10 kilometres of pathways, gardens, lakes and playgrounds. It’s an excellent spot to explore nature or just take some time to relax in the outdoors.
10. Erlton Park:
Erlton Park is located just outside of downtown Calgary on the Elbow River Valley Road. With its lush green spaces, winding pathways and scenic views of the river, it’s a great place for leisurely walks or more challenging hikes.
11. Shouldice Athletic Park:
Shouldice Athletic Park is located in northwest Calgary and offers plenty of opportunities for exploring nature. With its rolling hills, meadows and wooded trails, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or an invigorating run. There are also plenty of challenging hikes available through its network of pathways.
12. Auburn Bay Park:
Auburn Bay Park is located in southeast Calgary and offers plenty of activities to explore nature. With over 12 kilometres of trails, this park features lush green spaces, pond areas and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or more challenging hikes.
Conclusion:
Calgary is home to some of the most stunning outdoor spaces in Alberta. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an invigorating hike, there are plenty of parks and trails to explore. From Weaselhead Flats Natural Area to Shouldice Athletic Park, these places offer endless opportunities for experiencing nature and wildlife in Calgary. So get out there and enjoy all that Calgary has to offer!