Park Overview
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bridgeland-Riverside, this dynamic off-leash area offers a unique urban dog park experience in Calgary.
Located near the intersection of 7 Street and McDougall Road NE, this park provides convenient access for both local residents and visitors.
The park's elevated position offers views of the surrounding neighborhood and downtown Calgary skyline, creating an engaging backdrop for dog walks.
A mix of open spaces and paved pathways provides various options for exercise and play, making it suitable for dogs of all sizes and energy levels.
The park's integration with the surrounding community makes it a popular spot for both regular visitors and those exploring the Bridgeland-Riverside area.
Its proximity to local amenities and the Bridgeland-Memorial CTrain station makes it an accessible destination for dog owners from across Calgary.
Quick Facts
- Location: 50 7 St NE, Calgary, AB T2E 8W2
- Size: 2 hectares
- Type: Urban community off-leash area
- Terrain: Mixed level and sloped areas
- Surface: Mixed paved paths and natural grass areas
- Parking: Street parking on 7 Street NE and McDougall Road NE
- Transit: Near Bridgeland-Memorial CTrain Station
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Amenities: Benches, waste stations, pathway lighting
Access Points
The main entrance is located at 7 Street NE, with easy access from McDougall Road NE. Multiple pathway connections provide access from different parts of the Bridgeland-Riverside community. The park is easily accessible from the Bridgeland-Memorial CTrain Station, making it convenient for visitors using public transit.
Parking Information
- Primary Parking: Street parking available along 7 Street NE
- Additional Parking: Street parking on McDougall Road NE
- Transit Access: 5-minute walk from Bridgeland-Memorial CTrain Station
- Pedestrian Access: Connected to community pathway system
Essential Gear for Bridgeland Riverside Off-Leash Area
Park Essentials
Urban park necessities:
- Insulated Water Bottle & Bowl Set - Perfect for post-walk café visits
- Long Training Lead - Ideal for slope training
- Dog Treat Pouch - Essential for positive reinforcement
Seasonal Gear
Weather protection for urban adventures:
- Water-Resistant LED Collar - For evening walks
- Waterproof Dog Jacket - Protection on windy slopes
- Quick-Dry Microfiber Dog Towel - Perfect for café visits after play
Popular Walking Routes
Park Circuit (15-20 minutes)
Complete loop around the park's perimeter. Includes both paved pathways and grassy areas. Offers views of the downtown skyline.
Community Connection (30 minutes)
Extended walk incorporating surrounding neighborhood paths. Links to local amenities and green spaces. Popular route for morning and evening walks.
Quick Loop (10 minutes)
Short circuit through the central area. Perfect for quick exercise sessions. Well-lit pathway suitable for evening visits.
Wildlife Awareness
The park's urban location hosts a variety of city-adapted wildlife. Regular visitors include black-billed magpies and northern flickers in the mature poplars. Urban rabbits frequent the park's edges during dawn and dusk hours.
Richardson's ground squirrels maintain colonies in the open areas. Red-tailed hawks often soar overhead, hunting in the open spaces. Keep dogs under voice control near wildlife areas, particularly during spring nesting season.
Visitor Tips
Combine your visit with breakfast at nearby local cafes - many offer dog-friendly patios. The terraced design provides natural agility training opportunities for active dogs. Evening visits offer spectacular urban sunset views and cooler temperatures.
- Community Events: Check bulletin boards for local dog meet-ups
- Photography: Best skyline shots during golden hour
- Social Scene: Morning and after-work hours are busiest
- Seasonal Tips: Summer evenings feature community events
Best Times to Visit
Café Culture Mornings (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
Perfect for combining dog walks with breakfast. Watch the city wake up from your elevated vantage point. Popular with local residents heading to work.
Lunch Break (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM)
Quieter period as most locals are at work. Ideal for training sessions and socialization. Good lighting for photography enthusiasts.
Community Hour (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
Busiest time with after-work crowd. Great for dog socialization and community connection. Beautiful sunset views over downtown.
Safety Guidelines
The urban setting requires specific safety awareness. Keep dogs close when near the busy surrounding streets. Be mindful of multiple users sharing the pathways.
- Urban Safety: Watch for cyclists and pedestrians
- Slope Awareness: Use caution on terraced areas after rain
- Community Respect: Keep noise levels considerate of neighbors
- Evening Safety: Stick to lit pathways after dark
- Social Etiquette: Respect café and restaurant boundaries
Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- Cherry blossoms and crabapple trees in bloom
- Community clean-up events and social gatherings
- Watch for muddy spots on natural paths
- Perfect weather for café patio visits
Summer (June-August)
- Evening community events and gatherings
- Poplar trees provide essential shade
- Water stations available at nearby cafes
- Best time for sunset photography
Fall (September-November)
- Spectacular fall colors in the poplar grove
- Perfect temperatures for longer visits
- Community harvest events
- Clear views of downtown skyline
Winter (December-February)
- Pathways regularly cleared of snow
- Winter light displays in surrounding area
- Cozy cafes nearby for warming up
- Magical city views on snowy evenings
Nearby Parks
Tom Campbell's Hill Off-Leash Dog Park
Expansive natural area with prairie grasslands. Excellent for long walks and nature observation. 15-minute walk northeast via pathway system.
St. Patrick's Island
Beautiful riverside park with beach access. Perfect for water-loving dogs in summer. 10-minute walk west along Memorial Drive.
Pearce Estate Park
Wetland area with interpretive center. Interesting wildlife viewing opportunities. 20-minute walk southeast along the river.