Categories: Travel

Experience Calgary’s spectacular prairie views at Haskayne Legacy Park

Photo via City of Calgary

If you live in Calgary, there’s no shortage of parks to explore within the city, and of course, Alberta is known for its incredible national and provincial parks.

But sometimes it’s nice to have a happy medium. Maybe you’re craving an afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but without driving hours out of town. If that middle ground sounds like your ideal hike, then Haskayne Legacy Park is the way to go.

The City of Calgary describes Haskayne Legacy Park as “Calgary’s traditional western ranchlands,” complete with prairie views and kilometres of paved pathways. The vision for the park began in 2006 when former mayor Dave Bronconnier strove to create larger regional parks along the borders of Calgary. Donations from namesakes Dick and Lois Haskayne, along with funding from the ENMAX Parks Programs, turned the vision into reality.

Is that a cow?

Photo via City of Calgary

Haskayne Legacy Park officially opened in September 2023. It’s home to an ecologically sensitive area containing native fescue grassland, of which only 16 per cent remains in Alberta, as well as the yellow-rumped warbler and the long-eared owl.

In warmer months, you might get to see cattle grazing on select sections of the park in partnerships with local ranchers and the nearby Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park. Having cows graze certain areas helps with weed control and improves plant diversity in the park.

Perhaps the most notable feature of the park is the massive pavilion, which is one of Calgary’s greenest buildings. Most of the electricity needed for the building is produced onsite at the adjacent solar photovoltaic system. Although the pavilion is still closed to the public, it and the nearby patio will be available for events, weddings, and other programs in the future.

The best way to experience Haskayne Legacy Park is on a self-guided walking tour. The three-kilometre tour features eight stops, starting at the net-zero pavilion building, through the trees and grasslands, and past the Bearspaw Reservoir. While you don’t have to worry about bears here, keep your eyes peeled for other wild animals!

Grab your friends, family, or even your dog and check out the Haskayne Legacy Park, just 15 minutes out of the city.