This lovely walking trail has marvelous views of downtown Calgary

Alberta’s Blue Sky City certainly has some exceptional views, and this tucked-away walking trail in Spruce Cliff is a local favourite.

Locals rave about the walk’s beautiful fall colours, quiet areas and river access. With some muddy spots and hills, it’s recommended you visit during the cooler months and come prepared with good walking shoes and spikes for gripping the ice. But if you brave the elements, you’ll be rewarded with exceptional sights of downtown Calgary looking North.

There’s also the nearby Douglas Fir Trail, which you can follow if you’re looking to extend the length of your walk or loop back to the starting point. This 5.6 km loop takes approximately two hours to complete, and with minimal elevation, it’s a fantastic leisurely walk for seniors and dogs.

Here’s how to find this tucked-away, suburban gem, and what to expect once you arrive.

What to expect

The Quarry and Bow River parkway is tucked away in the suburban community of Spruce Cliff, and you can find the walking path behind some of the neighbourhood’s residential condos.

It’s just 20 minutes from downtown Calgary, making this an easy and accessible walk in the inner city.

The best part of this walk is definitely the views — you can see all of downtown Calgary, including the Calgary Tower and city skyline, looking north.

It’s a popular dog walking path for local residents, so be prepared to encounter one or two while you walk. With minimal elevation gain, it’s also easy on the knees, making this an ideal pathway for seniors and residents with mobility concerns.

The nearby Douglas Fir Trail has some of the city’s most lovely trees, and you can extend your walk by connecting with it on this leisurely jaunt.

If you’ve been looking for a new walking path to add to your weekend, this is it. Just be sure to snap a pic or two of the cityscape along the way.

Quarry and Bow River Parkway

Where: Bow River Pathway and Quarry Way SE, Calgary

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