Edworthy Park and the Douglas Fir Trail
Where: South of the Bow River between Crowchild and Sarcee Trails
Edworthy Park is one of Calgary’s finest natural parks. Edworthy Park has a fascinating history: the area was used as a bison kill site, a tipi camp, a commercial garden, a brick factory and a sandstone quarry. This park is excellent for family picnics (includes a playground and barbeque area), cyclists and rollerbladers (on the extensive concrete trail), and hikers (on trails through the woodland).
Walk the Douglas Fir Trail (about 1 hour, child friendly and paved) which passes through a rare stand of fir trees (some greater than 400 years old). Other indigenous flora includes native grassland, shrubland, mixed coniferous forest and sedge wetland.
Glenmore Reservoir
The Glenmore Reservoir is Calgary’s largest body of water and makes a spectacular biking adventure. Along the way enjoy beautiful views of the mountains, watch as sailboats float by or cool down at the South Glenmore Variety Spray Deck on the south side of the reservoir. Stops along the way include the Weaselhead Corridor, Heritage Park and Glenmore Landing. The trail is 16.5 kms long.
Read about our family bike ride around the Glenmore Reservoir.
Griffith Woods
Where: Griffith Woods is located in the community of Discovery Ridge.
Griffith Woods Natural Environment Park is remarkable for its large size (93 hectares) and spectacular setting. Situated along the banks of the Elbow River in the southwest part of Calgary, it is a highly valued natural asset and wonderful addition to the city’s park system. White Spruce forest, spring-fed wetlands, native grassland, and abundant wildlife including more than 70 species of birds are just a few of the things you can expect during your walk through Griffith Woods.
The park was created in 2000 and named after Wilbur Griffith, who, along with his wife Betty, donated a portion of their estate to The City of Calgary to be set aside as a nature preserve. Griffith Woods has been classified as a Special Protection Natural Environment Park because of its overall environmental sensitivity and significance.
River Park / Sandy Beach
Where: At the end of 50th Avenue SW.
A rare oasis of expansive greenery & peacefulness in central southwest Calgary, this spot offers paved pathways that are busy on weekends and unpaved pathways are more popular with walkers and off-leash dogs. You’ll find great views of the Elbow River here.
Stanley Park
Where: 4011 – 1A St. SW
Stanley Park allows you to enjoy activities such as fishing, canoeing and rafting on the Elbow River. This family friendly Calgary picnic area features water fountains, an outdoor swimming pool, picnic tables with BBQ pits, and playground areas for the children. Calgary’s outdoor bowling club is also located here.
Weaselhead Flats
Where: 66 Ave & 37 St. SW
Weaselhead Flats runs along the Elbow River just west of Glenmore Park. Deer, moose, birds, beaver dams and even an occasional bear can all be seen here. Hiking trails are throughout the park along with guided nature walks offered by the city.