Categories: Lifestyle

This ‘hidden treasure’ trail in Calgary will make you feel like you’ve escaped the city

Photo via citizenblitz/Shutterstock

Living in a major urban city centre has lots of upsides, but when you’re looking for a moment away from the hustle and bustle, it can be hard to find.

Luckily, in Calgary we have many pristine, wild green spaces within our city limits. And this one in northwest Calgary will make you feel like you’ve escaped to the mountains altogether.

The forested Bearspaw Dam Trail meanders along pristine trails adjacent to the Bow River, with lookout spots and dog-friendly paths to boot.

It’s the ultimate city escape, and an ideal choice for Calgarians who are looking for some reprieve from icy Rocky Mountain trails.

What to expect

If you’re looking to escape from the overwhelm of city life, this trail is for you.

There are a few steep and hilly areas on this 5.6 km out-and-back hike, but for the most part, it’s family- and dog-friendly.

Just a 10-minute drive from Bowness Park, the Bearspaw Dam Trail has less than 200 metres of elevation gain throughout, and a creekside crossing that will thrill adventurous types.

There are scenic views of the Bow River, coupled with lovely pine forest trails. Lookout spots also offer a glimpse of the Bearspaw Dam, which was built in 1954 and helps to reduce winter flooding and ice packing on the Bow River.

The Dam was named after Chief Bear’s Paw, one of the signatories of Treaty 7, which took place at Blackfoot Crossing in 1877.

The trail ends with a final cliffside view of the Bearspaw Dam Reservoir, a welcome reward for the 1 hour and 32 minute, moderately difficult hike.

Depending on the weather and time of year, the creekside crossing can be a little muddy, so it’s best to lace up a snug pair of waterproof boots.

Along the way, you can peruse some of the beauty that Alberta has to offer — and it’s all within our city limits.