Calgary Hikes
Calgary hikes are an amazing way to experience both the city and the surrounding landscape, as there are so many options that are easily accessible.
When it comes to hiking in Calgary, the Rocky Mountains often comes top of mind, but why not take a pause to discover all Calgary has to offer in ways of urban and nature trails within the city? Calgary hikes are perfect for a quick day adventure, so strap on your boots and head out to explore all that the city has to offer!
Calgary hikes utilize a wide variety of walking trails, and with good public transport you can explore many of these trails without a car. Best of all, even when you’re within Calgary, it feels like you’re out in the countryside, whether walking along the rim of Cranston Ridge, through the bottoms of valleys at Fish Creek Ranch and yes—even with views of the far-off Rocky Mountains at Nose Hill.
The landscape of Calgary is ever changing, that’s part of what makes it such an epic city for hiking. From tall, shady alpine forests to the sweeping, willowy grasslands to wetlands teeming with wildlife and birds flying overhead, Calgary’s hiking scene really does have it all. Better yet, there is a trail available for every fitness level, whether you’ve never hiked a day in your life or if you’re basically a mountaineer by trade. Calgary hikes really are a great experience, and we hope that you take the time to explore every winding path the city has to offer.
To help you get on your way for your next hike in Calgary, we’ve compiled a list of all our favourite spots across the city. We like to think we’ve got the 4-1-1 to help you tackle any hike and leave you raving about the heart of Canada’s West Coast.
The 10 Greatest Hikes in Calgary
When hiking in Calgary, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Within a quick drive, you’ll have access to blooming meadows, craggy hills, lush river valleys and ever-green forests. No matter what kind of trail you’re looking for, be it family-friendly, challenging, or an ideal day trip, Calgary hikes have it all. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore the great outdoors in your own backyard, we’re rounded-up the 10 most epic hikes in and around Calgary.
- Bow River Pathway North: Set out on a local hiking adventure with the little ones at this urban trail. Find winding dirt pathways that snake up a ridge offering panoramic views over the city of Calgary and passes through both Bowmont Park and Dale Hodges Park.
- Fish Creek Ranch and Parkland Ridge: Hang with the local wildlife—beavers and birds—at Canada’s largest urban park. With endless dirt trails and pathways to explore, you can visit this trail each season for a completely different experience.
- Nose Hill: This hike will get you sweating in the best way possible. Gradually make your way up the hill to take in the vista below, showcasing the Rocky Mountains, Bow River Valley and the vast plains off in the distance.
- Glenbow Ranch: Grab your cowboy hat and set off to discover this active cattle ranch. This trail gets hilly, making for a fun hike with great views, topped off with a zig zag climb up a coulee at the end.
- Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation: Take in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains with stunning vantage points at this conservation area. Here, find quiet solitude among the crickets, where it’s easy to forget you’re not far from the city.
- Lafarge Meadows: Get up close and personal to the locals--- moose, owls, osprey and red-necked grebes—at these engineered wetlands. Take a refreshing dip in the Bow River and then continue on the trail, passing pristine, manicured gold courses.
- West Fish Creek: Bordered on three sides by the city, the West Fish Creek hiking trail feels like an oasis in the middle of an urban jungle. Grab your net and head down to the creek to spot tadpoles, then enjoy the gentle paths of the park before indulging in a picnic lunch waterside.
- Bow River Downtown: For the ultimate urban Calgary hikes experience, set out on a walk through the downtown core of the city. Enjoy the beautiful, lush parks within the city, take in the sights at the Crescent Heights Lookout Point and stop for coffee. Lots and lots of coffee.
- Cranston Ridge: Discover a challenging hike, starting off in the bottom of a valley where the babbling Bow River flows. Pace yourself as you ascend the Cranston Ridge and brave the elevation change. Then, marvel at the stately homes in Riverstone as you pass through peaceful local parks.
- Inglewood Bird Sanctuary: Find an astonishing 270 species of birds to observe in this wildlife nature reserve. Grab the whole family and explore the wide-open grasslands in this picturesque park.
When is the best time to hike in Calgary
Calgary is one of those rare places that is truly enjoyable all year round and part of what makes the city so great. For hiking, the summer months offer beautiful wildflower trails and bubbling creeks perfect for a quick dip. In the fall, watch as the leaves change colour and crunch beneath your feet. During the winter months, be sure to bring snowshoes and a warm hat, but don’t let the cold deter you! Step out and enjoy the winter wonderland that can befall Calgary. In the spring, watch as the world turns vivid green once more and enjoy those early days of warmer weather and quite trails. Calgary hikes are accessible year-round, so you might as well get out and enjoy them!
Hiking options near Calgary
In just over an hour you can find yourself in the spot most loved by locals—Kananaskis Country. Here, you can find breathtaking hikes far from the crowds that follow Jasper or Banff. Check out incredible hikes in Banff, or around Lake Louise or even on the beautiful Icefield Parkway. Hop on Highway 40 to reach some of the greatest Lake Louise in the Kananaskis, including Kananaskis Trail, Smith Dorrien and Bragg Creek.
How to plan a trip to Calgary
Need all the details on how to plan a trip to Calgary? We’ve got you covered. Check out our Planning a Trip to Calgary Guide, which has all the information on how to get here, when to visit, where to stay and even where to find the best grub in the city. Looking for a more exhilarating adventure in Alberta? Book one of these amazing adventure tours in the Canadian Rockies.
Other Activities in Calgary
Calgary hikes are a great way to explore both the urban and natural areas that make up the city, but what about other things to do? Calgary has many different outdoor activities on offer, but we think that road biking is one of the best. Check out this list of road biking routes in Calgary to discover your next cycling adventure.
Frequently asked questions about hiking in Calgary
Where can I hike in Calgary?
There are a lot of options both within and just outside Calgary, and we’ve shared route guides for our favourites to help get you started.
Do I need hiking boots for trails in Calgary?
Most of our favourite trails are relatively easy walks, so trail runners are all you need here!
Get an App for the trails
If you are worried about getting lost while out hiking or simply want to track your stats, you should really get an app for the trails. The 10Adventures trail app is a great resource that allows you to safely navigate the trails offline and track the stats of your hike, providing some peace of mind for your next hiking trip!
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Weaselhead Flats
Escape to nature without leaving the city! Weaselhead Flats offers 237 hectares of pleasant pathways tailor-made for chilled-out hikes and gusts of fresh air. This area is more of a network of routes than just one individual walk, so you can go on an aimless wander or find a path you like. And we have the directions for our favourite loop below!
Bow River Pathway North
Embark on a stunning urban hike in the city of Calgary from Dale Hodges Park, following the popular Bow River Trail. This trail is a local favourite, known for its sweeping views over the city, paths that follow the babbling Bow River and a picturesque pond with a small dock for picnic stops.
Fish Creek and Parkland Ridge
The Fish Creek and Parkland Ridge Hike starts in Canada’s largest urban park, spanning over much of the south side of Calgary. Exploring Fish Creek Park is ideal for a day trip, with gentle trails leading towards Fish Creek. Bring binoculars for spotting wildlife, including beavers, deer, and endemic bird species.
Nose Hill
The walking paths of Calgary’s Nose Hill Park will reward you with panoramic views of downtown Calgary, the Prairies, and the Rocky Mountains, but don’t forget to take time to appreciate the beauty of the rough Fescue grassland on your way up!
Glenbow Ranch
Discover the rolling fescue grasslands at Glenbow Ranch, an active cattle ranch set against breathtaking vistas where you could spot the occasional cowboy or two. This underrated destination offers shorter and longer trail routes and is a great place to explore year-round.
Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
What’s in a name? At Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, come prepared for some serious birding with over 270 species to observe in this wildlife nature reserve. Listen to the birds sing as you walk along shady paths, perfect for little ones who want to adventure close to home.
Lafarge Meadows
Be sure to grab binoculars and bring the whole family for a hike at Lafarge Meadows in Calgary’s Southeast. Diverse wildlife like moose, owls, osprey and red-necked grebes can be found among the engineered wetlands. Walk alongside the Bow River or maybe even cast a line in the water, then head past the Blue Devil Golf Club where you can spot golfers practicing their swing.
West Fish Creek
Bordered on three sides by the city, this hiking trail in western Fish Creek feels like an oasis in the middle of an urban jungle. Take in grasslands, forests and wetland vistas, relax, or even fish—this trail has it all.
Bow River & Downtown Calgary
For extraordinary views and easy paved trails, the Bow River Downtown hike is unmatched. Take in the bustle of the city, where St. Patrick’s Island Park, inner-city energy, and great coffee await.
Cranston Ridge
Kick off the Cranston Ridge hike in the bottom of the valley with a tranquil walk along the Bow River. Then, climb to Cranston Ridge with great views of the Rocky Mountains.
Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation
Embark on a hike at Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation to take in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains. With unique vantage points along the way, the trail is teeming with wildlife in their natural, protected habitat. Here, find quiet trails that provide a retreat in nature and a respite from busy city life.
Douglas Fir Trail
Get some fresh mountain air right in the heart of the city with a hike on the Douglas Fir Trail. Strap on your hiking boots because this trail can be challenging, featuring changing elevation and large steps. Feel small along the giant Douglas Fir trees and be sure to stop at the lookout points to enjoy the panoramic views.
Big Hill Springs
For a visually stunning hike, try the Big Hill Springs trail in the foothills of Alberta's Rocky Mountains. Trek past a series of small, rushing waterfalls and bubbling springs, all isolated within a beautiful coulee. This kid-friendly trail makes for a fun time for adventurers of all ages!
Glenmore Reservoir Trail
Hiking the Glenmore Reservoir trail is a great half day trip, or just head out on a portion of the path for an hour or two! It is perfect for all abilities and explores the entire reservoir, staying close to the water and wetlands that the reservoir is famous for. This is a heavily populated area in the summer months, but many visitors choose short routes within the area rather than committing to the full loop.
Edworthy Park Loop
From the south side of the park, the Edworthy Park Loop hiking trail is a quick and easy way to spend an hour or two taking in some nature. When visiting the city it can be hard to find green space, but Edworthy Park is the perfect escape with plenty of amenities at the central day use area.
Carburn Pond Loop Trail
The Carburn Pond Loop Trail is a lollipop loop that has almost no elevation gain. It is perfect for families, folks with mobility restrictions, and those just looking for a nice stroll around some greenspace in the city. You’ll enjoy this serene trail that loops around the pond and stops at a viewpoint along the Bow River. The park has plenty of public facilities to make your outing as convenient as possible.
Stanley Park to River Park
The trail from Stanley Park to River Park is a beautiful trail that follows the Elbow River. It is possible to hike or bike this trail, but we prefer to hike. Once you reach River Park, there are extensive trails that intertwine through the park if you would like to add some distance to your route by checking out more of what River Park has to offer. Enjoy both river views and beautiful houses along your way.
Prairie Winds Park Loop
If you are looking for a quick stop to get outside near the Calgary Airport, the Prairie Winds Park Loop is a great option. It is a small park very close to the airport, which makes for an excellent option to get some fresh air if you find yourself in this area. The lollipop loop takes you around the perimeter of the park over a distance of 1.1 km.
Bowness Baker Park Loop
The Bowness Baker Park Loop is a trail that crosses into two popular green spaces in the city. The trail crosses the Bow River twice while connecting the two parks. The parks have plenty of amenities such as washrooms, water taps, picnic sites, and boat launches.
Pearce Estate Park
When considering a day out on the Bow River Pathway, think about adding on the Pearce Estate Park Loop. Just off of 17th Ave, the Pearce Estate Park connects directly with the Bow River Pathway. This multi-use path is a great way to explore the city and connect different public spaces in nature.
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