Sue Higgins Park is Calgary's crown jewel for dog owners. At 62 hectares, it's the city's largest fully fenced off-leash area, and it offers an experience unmatched by any other park in Western Canada. Here's everything you need to know for your visit.
Getting There & Parking
The main entrance is off 18 Street SE, with a large paved parking lot that fills up on busy weekends. Arrive before 10 AM on Saturdays and Sundays to guarantee a spot. Weekday parking is rarely an issue.
The Double-Gate System
Sue Higgins uses double-gated entries at all access points. This airlock system prevents dogs from escaping during entry/exit. Here's the protocol:
1. Enter the first gate and close it behind you
2. Unleash your dog (or prepare to)
3. Open the second gate to enter the park
4. Reverse when leaving: leash your dog, enter airlock, close inner gate, exit
Park Zones
**Main Field (near parking lot):** The social hub. This is where most dogs greet and play. Expect high energy, especially on weekends. Great for social, confident dogs.
**Wooded Trails (central and north):** Quieter paths through trees and brush. Better for dogs who prefer sniffing and exploring over social play. Good shade in summer.
**River Access (east side):** The Bow River borders the park's eastern edge. A gradual sandy entry point allows safe swimming and wading. Spectacular in summer, quiet in winter.
**Agility Equipment (south area):** Jumps, tunnels, and weave poles for dogs who enjoy structured play.
What to Bring
✅ Water and portable bowl (the river is for play, not drinking)
✅ Waste bags (stations are provided but sometimes empty)
✅ Towel (essential if your dog swims)
✅ Ball or toy
✅ Treats for recall reinforcement
✅ Leash (required for transitions)
Best Times to Visit
| Time | Crowd Level | Best For |
|------|------------|---------|
| Weekday 7-9 AM | Moderate | Morning regulars, steady play |
| Weekday 10 AM-2 PM | Light | Reactive dogs, quiet exploration |
| Weekday 4-7 PM | Moderate-Heavy | After-work crowd |
| Weekend 8-11 AM | Heavy | Social dogs who love crowds |
| Weekend afternoon | Moderate | Post-lunch visitors |
What Makes It Special
Sue Higgins is the park that every Calgary dog owner should experience. The fence provides safety that lets you relax and enjoy the outing. The variety — open fields, forest trails, river access, agility equipment — means every visit can be different. And the community of dog owners here is welcoming and knowledgeable.
For new dog owners, dogs learning off-leash skills, reactive dogs working on socialization, or simply anyone who wants the best park experience in Calgary — Sue Higgins is where you start.