Bowmont Park Overview
Among the most scenic dog parks in Calgary, Bowmont Park stretches along the Bow River's northern banks, offering a dramatic landscape of river valleys and towering escarpments in 2025.
This 164-hectare natural paradise combines ancient river terraces with dense poplar forests, creating diverse environments for dogs to explore.
The park's unique geological features include exposed cliff faces and hoodoo formations, providing a stunning backdrop for your daily walks.
Park Map
Bowmont Park Quick Facts
- Location: 85 St NW, Calgary, AB T3B 3P5
- Size: 164 hectares
- Terrain: River valley, escarpments, forests
- Elevation Change: 60 meters from river to plateau
- Trail Length: 12+ km of interconnected paths
- River Access: Multiple safe entry points
- Notable Features: Hoodoos, springs, cliff faces, fenced off-leash area
- Habitat Types: Riparian, grassland, woodland
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Parking: Multiple designated lots (85 St NW, Silver Springs Gate NW)
Access Points
- 85 Street Entrance: Main parking lot with information kiosk and trail access
- Silver Springs Gate NW: Large parking area with fenced off-leash access
- Bow River Pathway: Multiple entry points to riverside trails
- Valley Ridge Access: Secondary parking with river valley viewpoints
- 52 Street NW: Additional parking for eastern trails
Essential Gear for Bowmont Park
Park Essentials
Must-have items for your visit:
- Waterproof Long-Line Lead - Perfect for riverside exploration
- Quick-Dry Microfiber Dog Towel - Essential for water play
- Dog First Aid Kit - Safety first on escarpment trails
Bowmont Park Seasonal Gear
Weather protection essentials:
- Dog GPS Tracker - Essential for extensive trail network
- Dog Saddle Bags - Perfect for longer trail adventures
- Dog Treat Pouch - For reliable recall on vast trails
Popular Walking Routes
- Riverside Trail (1.5 hours): Follows the Bow River with off-leash swimming areas, watch for current advisories
- Escarpment Loop (2 hours): Climbs to upper viewpoints with city vistas, steep sections require good footwear
- Silver Springs Circuit (1 hour): Popular route through mixed terrain with wildlife viewing
- Waterfall Valley Trail (45 minutes): Explores natural springs and cliffs - best after rainfall
- East-West Connector (1.5 hours): Links 85 St NW to Valley Ridge through diverse landscapes
Note: Trail conditions vary seasonally. Check City of Calgary website for current status and closures.
Bowmont Park Wildlife Awareness
At Bowmont Park, white-tailed deer traverse escarpment paths during dawn and dusk.
Great Blue Herons fish along the river’s edge in summer, while beavers are active near spring-fed streams.
Merlins and Cooper’s Hawks nest in tall poplars, and coyotes den in escarpment cavities, especially in early morning.
Visitor Tips
- River current strength varies, check conditions before water play
- Upper trails offer shelter from summer heat under poplars
- Springs provide year-round water for dogs, test depth first
- Escarpment trails may be slippery after rain, stick to maintained paths
- Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing
Best Times to Visit
- Early Morning (6-8 AM): Perfect for wildlife watching and quiet trails
- Mid-Morning (9-11 AM): Ideal for river play as waters warm
- Late Afternoon (3-5 PM): Beautiful light for escarpment views
- Evening (7-9 PM Summer): Cooler temperatures and dramatic sunsets
Safety Guidelines
- Keep dogs leashed near escarpment edges
- Check river conditions before allowing water play
- Stay on marked trails during wet conditions
- Carry extra water for steep sections
- Keep dogs away from wildlife dens and nests
- Use provided bag stations to maintain trail cleanliness
Bowmont Park Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- Spring runoff increases river flow (March 2025)
- Natural springs become more active
- Escarpment trails may be muddy
- Wildlife active with young
Summer (June-August)
- River beaches perfect for water play
- Upper trails provide shade relief
- Springs offer cooling spots
- Evening walks offer spectacular sunsets
Fall (September-November)
- Poplar forests turn brilliant gold
- Clear days offer best city views
- Cooler temperatures ideal for longer walks
- Wildlife preparing for winter
Winter (December-February)
- Escarpment protects from cold winds
- Springs remain ice-free
- Snow-covered trails great for tracking
- Dramatic ice formations along cliffs
Bowmont Park Recent Updates (March 2025)
As of March 2025, Bowmont Park has completed habitat restoration in the central west portion, with native plantings enhancing ecological health.
A new handrail improves accessibility to the Waterfall Valley outlook platform, and updated signage clarifies off-leash boundaries.
The Silver Springs entrance off-leash area reopened after revegetation, with detours removed.
Nearby Dog Parks
Edworthy Off-Leash Dog Park
15 minutes east along the river, featuring similar riverside trails
Nose Hill Dog Park
20 minutes northeast, offering extensive prairie landscapes
Bowforth Dog Park
22 min (16.4 km) drive via AB-1A E