Park Overview
Fish Creek Provincial Park, located in south Calgary, is one of North America's largest urban parks and offers an extensive network of trails and designated off-leash areas for dogs and their owners to explore.
This vast park stretches across Calgary's southern edge, encompassing diverse ecosystems including riverfront areas, grasslands, and forested regions. The park's varied landscape provides countless opportunities for dogs to experience different environments and terrains.
The extensive trail system includes both paved and natural pathways, connecting multiple off-leash areas throughout the park. These well-maintained trails accommodate different fitness levels and preferences, from casual walks to more challenging hikes.
The Bow River, which flows through the park, offers designated areas where dogs can safely access the water during warmer months. These spots provide excellent opportunities for water-loving dogs to cool off and play.
As a provincial park, Fish Creek maintains a perfect balance between recreational use and wildlife conservation. Visitors can often spot deer, birds, and other wildlife while following designated trails and respecting protected areas.
Quick Facts
- Location: Calgary, AB
- Size: 13.48 km² (3,331 acres)
- Type: Provincial park with multiple designated off-leash areas
- Terrain: Mixed (river valley, forests, grasslands)
- Surface: Mixed (paved paths, natural trails, riverbank)
- Parking: Multiple lots throughout the park
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Special Features: River access, wildlife viewing, provincial park facilities
Access Points & Parking
- Bow Valley Ranch: Main visitor center and parking
- Hull Woods: Access to forested trails and parking
- Marshall Springs: Off-leash area access and parking
- Sikome Lake: Large parking lot with trail connections
- Transit Access: Multiple bus routes serve various park entrances
Essential Gear for Fish Creek Provincial Park
Park Essentials
Must-have items for your visit:
Seasonal Gear
Weather protection essentials:
Popular Walking Routes
- Bow Valley Ranch Loop (2.5 km): Historic ranch buildings and river views
- Hull's Wood Trail (3.8 km): Popular off-leash circuit through ancient forest
- Mallard Point Path (4.2 km): Riverside trail with wildlife viewing
- Prairie Loop (5.1 km): Grassland circuit with city skyline views
- Valley Bottom Trail (7.3 km): Full-day adventure along Fish Creek
Wildlife Awareness
- Deer families frequent meadow areas year-round
- Coyotes active at dawn and dusk
- Great Blue Herons fish along creek edges
- Beaver colonies maintain dam systems
- Various hawks and owls nest in mature trees
- Occasional moose sightings in wetland areas
Visitor Tips
- Download park trail map before visiting
- Bring extra water for long trails
- Check river conditions before water play
- Keep dogs away from wildlife areas
- Use designated off-leash areas only
- Carry bear spray in remote sections
Best Times to Visit
- Early Morning (5:00-8:00 AM): Prime wildlife viewing, quiet trails
- Mid-Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): Comfortable temperatures, good lighting
- Late Afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM): Golden hour photography
- Evening (7:00-9:00 PM): Cooler temperatures, dramatic sunsets
Safety Guidelines
- Keep dogs leashed near wildlife areas
- Maintain distance from river edges
- Stay on marked trails
- Carry emergency contact information
- Be aware of weather changes
- Know your location markers
Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- Prairie crocuses bloom early
- High river levels from melt
- Migrating birds return
- Muddy trails common
Summer (June-August)
- River perfect for dog swimming
- Wildflower meadows in bloom
- Dawn/dusk best for heat
- Regular wildlife sightings
Fall (September-November)
- Spectacular fall colors
- Perfect hiking weather
- Active wildlife preparing for winter
- Less crowded trails
Winter (December-February)
- Cross-country ski trails open
- Stunning frost formations
- Clear wildlife tracking
- Peaceful snowy landscapes
Nearby Dog Parks
Sue Higgins Dog Park
15 minutes drive, featuring river access and agility equipment
Douglasdale Park
10 minutes drive, neighborhood park with walking trails
Auburn Bay Dog Park
20 minutes drive, fenced area with separate small dog section
Glenmore Dam Off-Leash Dog Park
25 minutes drive, scenic reservoir views and pathways