Best Outdoor Activities in Calgary

Here’s a list of some ideas of the outdoor activities you can enjoy around Calgary. Hiking trails, biking & cycling, ice skating and picnic areas and much more...

Walking

Calgary Pathways and Trails

Calgary communities, parks and natural areas are connected by an extensive network of multi-use pathways available for all Calgarians to enjoy, whether for walking, running, in-line skating or cycling. In fact, Calgary has the most extensive urban pathway and bikeway network in North America. The City maintains approximately 1000 km of regional pathways and 96 km of trails.
Website: https://maps.calgary.ca/PathwaysandBikeways

River Walk and Bow River Pathway

Address: located near Municipal District of Bighorn No. 8
The Bow River pathway is a pathway system developed along the banks of the Bow River in the city of Calgary. It contains a network of pedestrian and bicycle paths connecting parks on both sides of the river. The trail is good for all skill levels and is primarily used for hiking, walking, trail running
Website: https://maps.calgary.ca/PathwaysandBikeways


Water Activities

Floating down the Bow River

Address: 720 - 3rd Street NW. West Baker Park Boat Ramp
Float 15 kilometres down the Bow (which takes 2 to 4 hours depending on river flow) into the heart of the city to the endpoint across from Prince’s Island Park. You are always welcome to take your time and stop at the many parks and islands that you’ll float lazily by
Website: https://www.lazydayraftrentals.com

Kayaking and Rafting

Address: Shouldice Athletic Park, 5227 13 Ave NW
Your 2-3 hr self-guided, or guided trip starts at Shouldice Park, floats 12km through the heart of downtown Calgary and ends at St Patrick's Island.
Website: https://www.paddlestation.ca

Biking

Calgary has a great network of bike paths and trails that provide cyclists with opportunities to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

Bow River Pathway

Bow River Pathway is a popular destination for cyclists of all levels, with scenic views of the Bow River and easy access to many of Calgary's parks and attractions.

Nose Hill Park

Nose Hill Park is a large natural area in the heart of Calgary that offers over 8 kilometers of biking trails. It features rolling hills, open meadows, and stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada and has over 80 kilometers of biking trails. It features a mix of paved and gravel paths, and offers opportunities to see wildlife such as deer and coyotes.

Glenmore Reservoir

The Glenmore Reservoir is a man-made lake in Calgary that offers over 20 kilometers of paved biking trails. It has stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains.

West Bragg Creek

West Bragg Creek is located about 40 minutes west of Calgary and offers over 150 kilometers of biking trails through beautiful forests and meadows. It is a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Website: https://braggcreektrails.org

Bowmont Natural Environment Park

Bowmont Natural Environment Park is located in northwest Calgary and offers over 17 kilometers of biking trails along the Bow River. It features stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Hours: 5a.m. - 11p.m.