Calgary and Banff Outdoors Guide

Trails

  • 48 km of trails connect Bearspaw to Fish Creek Park, connecting many parks and green spaces. There is so much here to explore and a gem for Calgary to have.

  • Another great long trail right within the city, its entire length being almost 40 km. We like to split it up in an East and West Trail. Parking near the Shannon Terrace Amphitheatre for the West loop and Fish Creek Hullwood for the East.

  • The Panorama Hills Loop are beautiful pathways through ravines and around small lakes. It is located through housing communities, but the paths feels very green and relaxed. There are close to no elevation changes and the paths are mostly paved.

  • If the Bow River Pathway wasn’t enough, the Elbow Pathway will be sure to please. Starting from the Glenmore Reservoir following the river to where it meets the Bow near downtown for 22 km each way.

  • Ha Ling is one of our favourite mountain hikes if you don’t want to go all the way into Banff. Budget 3-4 hours with good hiking boots and rain jacket. The views are next level. 7.5km each way and is a challenging hike. Add in Miners Peak for an even more challenging hike adding an additional 2km.

  • Not every hike in Banff needs to climb super high elevation. This heavily wooded trail is 3 km will almost no elevation change. It can get quite busy busy and tough to find parking during peak times.

Activities

  • The shaded area near the gardens is a perfect place for picnic. These gardens offer free admission and just to the north is an off leash dog park.

  • There is so much to do at Glenmore Reservoir, we of course like walking around it. But the best way to explore it is by paddling. Heritage Park offers great parking and plenty of nearby activities.

  • The perfect downtown escape for a quick walk or place to eat lunch while exploring the city. Lots of people around which can be a deterrent or a great spot to people watch.

  • Plenty of beaches, parks, trails and watersports will be sure to keep you entertained all day, and only 30 minute drive from Calgary.

  • Want great views, without the hike? This is the spot.

  • A short walk from downtown Canmore, this is the perfect zero elevation walk to catch the mountain views. You can’t swim at the bridge, but nearby you can dip your toes in and feel the icy cold waters.

Find near you

  • Escape into the wilderness and reconnect with nature on a camping adventure. Gather your family and friends around a crackling campfire share stories, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

  • On your next round, ditch the beer cart and elevate your experience with Summit. While we can't promise it'll improve your game, we guarantee you'll savor every moment on the course

  • If you know you know. If you don’t, get dinking and you will be addicted in no time. Stash a Summit in you gym bag for the best recovery ever.

  • Connect with nature right at home – whether it's your window sill, balcony, or backyard garden. Our top pick? Growing fresh herbs in a sunny window to elevate the munchies to the next level

  • Tuesday afternoon around the block or Sunday morning to the local coffee shop. Music is optional, bringing the dog is not.

  • Crack a Summit. try something from as many vendors as possible. People watch while you eat. What could be better?