Explore the best parks, hiking trails, and mountain getaways in and around Calgary. Discover why locals love the outdoors—and how you can live closer to nature with the right Calgary home.

If you’ve just moved to Calgary—or you’re thinking about it—get ready to fall in love with the outdoors. One of the biggest perks of living in Calgary is how easy it is to escape into nature without ever leaving the city limits. And when you do want to get away, the Rocky Mountains are just an hour’s drive west.

As someone who lives here, works here, and explores here—I’ve got your outdoor guide covered. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or just want a beautiful spot for a Sunday picnic, here are my top picks for outdoor fun in and around Calgary.

🌲 In the City: Calgary’s Best Parks & Urban Trails

1. Fish Creek Provincial Park
This is one of the largest urban parks in North America—and a personal favorite. With over 80 KM of paved and unpaved trails, it’s perfect for cycling, walking, or even spotting deer at dusk. The park backs onto several residential communities like Evergreen and Parkland—great for buyers who want nature right out their back door.

2. Nose Hill Park
If wide open spaces and panoramic city views are your thing, Nose Hill delivers. It’s a go-to for trail runners, dog walkers, and even photographers chasing that golden-hour light. Bonus: It’s nestled near neighborhoods like Brentwood and Edgemont, making it ideal for families or professionals who value quick access to downtown and green space.

3. St. Patrick’s Island & East Village Riverwalk
Trendy and walkable, this inner-city escape has become a lifestyle hub. Grab a coffee at Sidewalk Citizen, stroll along the Bow River, or stretch out on the steps by the seasonal wading area. If you’re relocating and crave a vibrant downtown vibe with easy nature access, check out East Village condos or Inglewood heritage homes.

🥾 Local Trails Worth the Trek

1. Glenmore Reservoir & Weaselhead Flats
Located in Calgary’s southwest, this spot gives you water views, birdwatching, and wooded trails all in one. Great for weekend walks or paddleboarding in summer. Communities like Lakeview and Bayview offer nearby living with serious lifestyle value.

2. Douglas Fir Trail & Edworthy Park
Hidden in plain sight, this rugged inner-city trail offers surprisingly steep inclines and wooded switchbacks. It’s one of the few “forest-feel” trails within city limits and a favorite among local hikers.

🏔️ Mountain Day Trips (1 Hour or Less)

1. Canmore
Want that mountain-town feel without committing to Banff’s tourist traffic? Canmore is the local’s choice. Just under an hour from Calgary, it offers endless hiking, biking, and food spots like Communitea and The Grizzly Paw. Great for day trips—or investing in a recreational property.

2. Kananaskis Country
This is where the locals go when they really want to unplug. Try the Ptarmigan Cirque hike (great for families) or Grassi Lakes (an Instagram dream). If you’re outdoorsy and serious about weekend escapes, I can even help you find a cabin or vacation home here.

3. Elbow Falls & Bragg Creek
This little gem west of the city offers short hikes, river access, and cute cafes in Bragg Creek. Perfect for new families or retirees looking for nature without the grind.

🔥 Trending Right Now: What Locals Are Talking About

• E-bike Trails: Calgary’s river paths are now e-bike friendly, and rentals are popping up everywhere.

• Sunset Spots: Edworthy Park and Scotsman’s Hill are trending for their golden-hour views.

• Hike & Dine Experiences: Day hikes followed by curated meals in Canmore or Bragg Creek—ask me for local recs!

🏡 Want to Live Closer to Nature?

As someone who helps Calgarians and newcomers find their perfect home, I can tell you this: lifestyle matters. If morning walks, weekend hikes, or mountain day trips are important to you, I’ll help you find a home that fits. Whether that means backing onto a park, living near the river, or finding a foothills property with space to roam—your outdoor dream can start right here in Calgary.

📩 Let’s talk about where you want to live—and the lifestyle you want to create. Book a free consultation or browse my latest listings tailored to outdoor lovers.

Your Next Experience Begins With Champagne 🥂 

Terri Champagne
REALTOR® | RE/MAX House of Real Estate | 
📞 403.614.7554 
🌐 terrichampagne.ca