Park Overview
Located at 13511 Elbow Dr SW in Fish Creek Provincial Park, Votiers Flats offers a beautiful riverside setting where dogs can explore natural trails and enjoy water access in a picturesque section of the park.
This area features wide open spaces along the Bow River, with a mix of grasslands and riverside forest creating diverse environments for dogs to explore. The natural floodplain provides excellent opportunities for both water play and trail walking.
Well-maintained pathways wind through the area, connecting to the larger Fish Creek Provincial Park trail system. The trails offer both paved and natural surfaces, accommodating different walking preferences while providing scenic views of the river valley.
The flat terrain near the river makes this area particularly accessible, while the surrounding valley slopes offer more challenging options for those seeking varied exercise. Multiple rest areas and picnic spots provide convenient places to take breaks.
As part of Fish Creek Provincial Park, Votiers Flats maintains a balance between recreational use and natural habitat preservation, offering visitors the chance to observe wildlife while enjoying the park responsibly.
Quick Facts
- Location: 13511 Elbow Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2W 2P2
- Size: 4.8 hectares (11.9 acres)
- Type: Provincial park with designated off-leash areas
- Terrain: River flats with valley slopes
- Surface: Mixed (grass, riverside paths, paved trails)
- Parking: Dedicated lot at Votiers Flats entrance
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Special Features: River access, picnic areas, provincial park amenities
Access Points & Parking
- Main Entrance: Primary access from Elbow Drive SW
- River Access: Multiple designated points along the Bow River
- Trail Connections: Links to Fish Creek Provincial Park pathway system
- Transit Access: Bus stops available on Elbow Drive
- Parking Area: Large lot with picnic shelter access
Essential Gear for Votiers Flats
Park Essentials
Must-have items for your visit:
Seasonal Gear
Weather protection essentials:
Popular Walking Routes
- Meadow Loop (1.8 km): Circular route through open grasslands
- Creek Trail (2.3 km): Riverside path with swimming spots
- Heritage Walk (1.2 km): Past historic markers and viewpoints
- Escarpment Trail (3.1 km): Elevated path with valley views
- Wetland Circuit (0.9 km): Bird watching loop through marsh area
Wildlife Awareness
- Red-tailed hawks patrol open meadows
- Mule deer graze at dawn and dusk
- Northern flickers nest in old cottonwoods
- Richardson's ground squirrels maintain burrow networks
- Occasional bobcat sightings in wooded areas
- Mergansers frequent creek rapids
Visitor Tips
- Morning fog creates magical photo opportunities
- Best wildflower viewing is mid-June to July
- Creek access points vary with water levels
- Bring binoculars for bird watching
- Check historic markers for local history
- Use designated creek crossing points
Best Times to Visit
- Sunrise (5:30-7:30 AM): Misty meadows, active wildlife
- Mid-Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): Perfect for training sessions
- Late Afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM): Best bird watching
- Sunset (7:00-9:00 PM): Dramatic sky views over flats
Safety Guidelines
- Watch for uneven ground in meadow areas
- Keep dogs away from wildlife burrows
- Check creek conditions after rain
- Stay on marked trails near escarpments
- Carry bear spray in remote sections
- Use extra caution during spring runoff
Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- Prairie crocuses dot meadows
- Return of migratory birds
- Creek levels rise with melt
- First wildflowers emerge
Summer (June-August)
- Peak wildflower season
- Perfect creek conditions
- Evening light spectacular
- Morning mist common
Fall (September-November)
- Golden prairie grasses
- Migrating birds overhead
- Crisp morning walks
- Clear creek waters
Winter (December-February)
- Snow-covered meadows
- Ice formations along creek
- Winter bird watching
- Sheltered walking paths
Nearby Dog Parks
Fish Creek Marshall Springs
15 minutes drive, scenic trails
Southland Dog Park
15 minutes drive, community setting
Sue Higgins Park
20 minutes drive, river access