Fish Creek Provincial Park is a long green valley at the southern edge of Calgary, and it is one of the biggest urban parks on the continent, described by Tourism Calgary as the second-largest in Canada. More than 100 kilometres of walking, hiking and cycling trails thread through forest, meadow and the valley of Fish Creek and the Bow River, and a visitor centre helps with maps and information. The park is free to enter and is used all year by walkers, runners, cyclists, birdwatchers and, in winter, cross-country skiers and snowshoers when conditions allow. Over two hundred bird species have been recorded, including great blue herons, ducks, geese and songbirds, and bald eagles nest in the Bow River valley. There are also practical amenities, with a boat launch, a golf course, a restaurant and an aquatic facility in the park. It is the best choice in the city for a long, quiet outdoor day that feels far from downtown.
Why it matters
Calgary is a city of river valleys, and Fish Creek is the largest piece of that system. The park protects forest, wetland and grassland along the creek, and wildlife is easy to find if you walk early and quietly, with deer and many birds the usual sightings.
Because the trail network is so extensive, you can choose anything from a flat forty-minute stroll to a long day on the loops, and the paths suit casual walkers as well as keen hikers and cyclists. The park's size means it is rarely crowded outside summer weekends.
Getting around
The park's address on Bow Bottom Trail in the south-east is one of several access points, and different entrances lead to different sections, so decide in advance whether you want the river, the wetlands or the forest and pick the entrance accordingly. Maps and advice are available from the visitor centre, and trail conditions change with the weather, so check the park's information before you set out, especially after snow or heavy rain. A car, taxi or rideshare is the practical way to reach the park from downtown, since public transport to the entrances is limited.
Seasons and tips
In autumn the cottonwoods and aspens turn gold, in winter the trails go quiet and the snow suits skiers and snowshoers, in spring the birds return and in summer the aquatic facility and the river bring families. Wear layers and footwear with grip from late autumn to spring, carry water and snacks on longer walks and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Dogs are welcome in much of the park on a leash, but check the rules for off-leash zones. Pair a visit with lunch at one of the park's amenities or with a drive back along the river, and treat it as a morning or afternoon activity that gives a different side of the city from the Tower and the museums.
What to expect
The experience
Self-guided walking, hiking or cycling on a network of more than 100 kilometres of trails through forest, meadow and river valley.
Best time
Early morning for birds and quiet; autumn for colour; winter for skiing or snowshoeing when conditions allow.
How long
Two hours for a gentle loop, a half-day or more for longer routes.
Tips
Choose your entrance by the section you want, wear layers and grippy footwear outside summer and keep your distance from wildlife.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers who want a big, quiet outdoor day.
- Families
- Flat paths, the river and the aquatic facility in summer make it an easy family outing.
- Couples
- A long woodland walk followed by lunch in the park.
- Pair with
- Nose Hill Park for a second side of the city's wild edges, or a late lunch in Inglewood.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How big is Fish Creek Provincial Park?+
It is among the largest urban parks in North America, with more than 100 kilometres of trails. Tourism Calgary describes it as the second-largest urban park in Canada.
Is it free?+
Yes, entry is free. Some facilities inside the park, such as the aquatic facility, golf course and restaurant, charge their own fees.
What wildlife can I see?+
More than 200 bird species have been recorded, including great blue herons, ducks, geese and songbirds, and bald eagles nest in the Bow River valley.
Can I visit in winter?+
Yes. The trails are used year-round, with skiing and snowshoeing possible when there is snow. Wear grippy footwear and check conditions.
How do I get there from downtown?+
By car, taxi or rideshare, since public transport to the entrances is limited. Pick the entrance that suits the section you want.
