Summer is on the way and as things have warmed up and the days have gotten longer, we have had so much fun as a family exploring all the different bike paths around Calgary.
There is such a great variety of walking and bike paths all over the city. In fact, with about 1000km of regional pathways and 96km of trails, Calgary has one of the most extensive urban walkway and bike path networks in North America.
From city views to paths along the river and through parks and forests, you will never run out of places to explore in and around Calgary on your bike. There are dirt tracks for off-road cyclists, mini pump tracks for the kids, and lots of paved pathways winding around the different neighbourhoods.
With the city coming alive with spring colours, it’s really beautiful to explore the different areas, especially along the river. And another great bonus – there are dozens of playparks and picnic spots all around, so you can make a whole day of it as a family.
We are so impressed with our kids’ enthusiasm for riding and they have gained so much stamina over the last few weeks, cycling many kilometers without complaint. We have had the most wonderful adventures as a family and buying bikes has been one of the best things we ever did.
Here are some of the bike paths in Calgary that we have enjoyed so far:
Fish Creek Provincial Park
Fish Creek Park is massive, with loads of different pathways and picnic spots. It’s definitely a place you can keep going back to over and over and can try a different route every time. Fish Creek is a great place to meet up with friends over the weekend.
Weaselhead Flats and Glenmore Reservoir
Weaselhead Flats and the Glenmore Reservoir are linked by numerous paved cycle paths. It’s a fantastic place to explore on your bike. There are beautiful views over the reservoir and river, and lots of benches to relax and enjoy the scenery on. There are also some great playgrounds for the kids, so another lovely place to meet up with friends.
Edworthy Park
Located along the Bow River, Edworthy is a wonderful place to explore on your bike. There are lots of picnic spots and playgrounds dotted around the park, and just across the river is Angel Café, a really wonderful little spot for a pit stop. Their hot apple cider is delicious! From Angel Café, there is a long path along the river that will take you right into downtown. It’s a nice flat route with beautiful river and city views.
Griffith Woods Park
We enjoy going to Griffith Woods for walks or rides. It’s really lovely all under the trees and along the river, so it’s a nice spot for a quiet picnic, too.
Lindsay Park
Close to downtown and nestled along the Elbow River, Lindsay Park has some great bike paths, picnic spots and playgrounds. We especially enjoyed the city skyline views here. It’s amazing to be right in the heart of the city but still feel like you’re out in the countryside.
Cycling in Calgary really is a wonderful family activity to enjoy. It’s safe, clean and so fantastic to get out into the sunshine and fresh air.
We can’t wait to explore more bike paths in and around Calgary. On our bucket list is the Legacy Trail that runs between Canmore and Banff. Hopefully by the end of the summer we will be able to experience this. It looks incredible with the Rocky Mountain views!
For info on the city’s bike paths and maps, have a look at the City of Calgary website.
Cape Town to Calgary 