Canyon Meadows Off-Leash Area

Park Overview

Located in southwest Calgary, the Canyon Meadows Off-Leash Area offers a spacious environment for dogs to exercise and play, with convenient access to Fish Creek Provincial Park.

This well-maintained park features a mix of open spaces and natural areas, making it an ideal spot for both active play and leisurely walks.

The park includes both grassy areas and natural pathways, providing varied terrain for different types of activities.

Its location adjacent to Fish Creek Provincial Park offers extended walking opportunities and beautiful natural surroundings.

Well-established paths throughout the park make it accessible for visitors of all mobility levels.

Quick Facts

Location: 1141 Anderson Rd SW, Calgary, AB T2W 1V5
Size: Approximately 10 acres
Type: Mixed-terrain off-leash area
Features: Open spaces, natural pathways, connection to Fish Creek Park
Parking: Street parking available
Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
Surface: Mixed grass and gravel paths
Amenities: Waste bins, benches

Access Points

Main Access: Entry from Anderson Road SW, with clear signage marking the off-leash area
Pathway Access: Connected to the Fish Creek Provincial Park pathway system
Neighborhood Access: Multiple entry points from surrounding residential areas

Parking Information

Street Parking: Available along Anderson Road SW
Additional Options: Parking available on adjacent residential streets
Peak Times: Parking may be limited during popular morning and evening hours
Note: Please be mindful of residential parking restrictions

Essential Gear for Canyon Meadows

Park Essentials

Must-have items for your visit:

Seasonal Gear

Weather protection essentials:

Popular Walking Routes

Creek Valley Loop (45 minutes): A scenic circuit following the creek's natural contours
Prairie Vista Trail (30 minutes): Upper pathway offering panoramic valley views
Cottonwood Way (20 minutes): Shaded route through ancient tree groves
Ravine Explorer (40 minutes): Challenging route with elevation changes

Wildlife Awareness

The park's connection to Fish Creek Provincial Park creates a rich wildlife corridor.

White-tailed deer are frequently spotted in early morning and evening hours.

Great Blue Herons fish along the creek banks during summer months.

Coyotes are active in the area - keep small dogs close and supervised.

Watch for beaver activity and their lodges along the creek.

Visitor Tips

Creek water levels can change rapidly after rain - check conditions before water play
Morning fog in the valley creates magical photo opportunities
Upper trails offer the best cell phone reception
Cottonwood groves provide natural cooling on hot days
Winter chinook winds can make upper areas quite warm

Best Times to Visit

Early Morning (6-8 AM): Best wildlife viewing and peaceful atmosphere
Mid-Morning (9-11 AM): Ideal temperatures for longer walks
Late Afternoon (3-5 PM): Perfect lighting for photography
Evening (7-9 PM Summer): Cool breezes and stunning sunsets

Safety Guidelines

Keep dogs away from creek banks during high water
Watch for ice formation on trails during winter
Carry bear spray during berry season
Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion
Keep dogs visible in tall prairie grass areas

Seasonal Information

Spring (March-May)

Creek levels rise with mountain runoff
Prairie crocuses bloom on upper slopes
Morning frost on valley trails

Summer (June-August)

Creek perfect for supervised swimming
Cottonwood fluff fills the air
Rich wildflower displays in meadows

Fall (September-November)

Spectacular fall colors in valley
Crisp morning air perfect for exercise
Migrating birds pass through

Winter (December-February)

Sheltered valleys protect from wind
Snow-packed trails ideal for winter walks
Chinook arches paint dramatic skies