Categories: Travel

This Calgary park with golden fall foliage is one of the largest in North America

Photo via Shutterstock

Whether you need to stretch your legs or want to read under the shade of a tree, there’s no place like Fish Creek Provincial Park in Calgary, Alberta.

What to expect

Located in the southern part of the city, this enchanting destination stretches 19 kilometres from east to west, making it one of the largest urban parks in all of North America.

Here, you’ll find a theatre, a visitor centre, and more than 80 kilometres of trails to hike and cycle—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

In addition to several paths and ponds, those who visit can also stop for something to eat at the Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant or, depending on the weather, Annie’s Café where they sell baked treats and coffee.

No matter the time of year, this particular park, which opened in 1973, is an incredible place to get fresh air, but no two seasons are alike.

In the summertime, check out Sikome, an artificial lake with a beach, and then in the fall wander through the golden foliage.

In the winter, go skating, or visit the “ice caves,” and have a picnic in the springtime.

There is no shortage of amazing things to see, experience, and learn after all, Fish Creek has been everything from a glacier bed to the home of many.

According to Parks Alberta, people first arrived in the valley around 6500 BC.

“First Nations groups have used the Fish Creek valley for over 8000 years, but it wasn’t until 1873 that the first permanent settlers of European descent arrived,” explains the Government of Alberta.

“At 16 years of age, John Glenn is said to have emigrated from Ireland to New York City… In late September of 1873, John and his new bride Adelaide Belcourt settled at the confluence of Fish Creek and the Bow River – making them (along with Sam Livingstone) Calgary’s first permanent residents.”

Want to explore the area for yourself?

Wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and enjoy.

It really is something else!