A 93-hectare park in Calgary boasts a pond, soccer fields, and a playground. It’s all located at Griffith Woods Park, a natural environment and preserved wetland that lies along the banks of the Elbow River in the community of Discovery Ridge.

There are a multitude of well-maintained trails and a boardwalk that meanders through the park, with both paved and unpaved paths to explore.

Each trail is flat and easy to walk, making this one of Calgary’s most accessible natural areas.

It’s also an excellent food source and permanent home for flora and fauna of all different shapes and sizes.

Griffith Woods Park is your connection to nature, right in the heart of the city!

What to expect

The 93 hectares of natural wetland environment are preserved in Griffith Woods Park, an area with significant agricultural history.

The land has been ranched since the late 1800s, and is adjacent to the Tsuut’ina Nation‘s traditional territories, which are marked by a fenceline in the park.

This “wild river” has ancient curves in the riverbed, creating a series of “oxbow” wetlands that are abundant with aquatic ecosystems.

The area was formerly part of the Griffith Estate and was donated in 2000 by Wilbur and Betty Griffith to the City of Calgary, with the land to be set aside as a nature preserve.

A haven for wildlife

Spring and summer see a lot of activity in Griffith Woods Park, by both visitors and wildlife alike. But you can visit this green space year-round, as long as you’re willing to contend with leaves and a bit of snow and ice on the walk.

You can expect to see deer, birds, and the occasional moose at this peaceful ecological haven.

Natural spruce and balsam poplar line the perimeter and are under special protection in the park.

It’s not often that city dwellers get to experience an untouched, natural river environment right in their backyard.

The 5.6 km loop at Griffith Woods Park is an ideal stop for nature lovers looking for a moment away from the calamity of city life.

Treading along the boardwalks, you’re sure to find your step and relocate to the centre.

Griffith Woods Park

Where: 160 Discovery Ridge Blvd. SW

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Em Medland-Marchen

Em is a Staff Writer for Curiocity Calgary. They are passionate about live music, rose gardens, iced coffee, and walks along the Bow River.

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