Park Overview
Lake Bonavista Off-Leash Area 2 stands as a picturesque destination among dog parks in Calgary, offering a unique blend of lakeside scenery and recreational space in the heart of the Lake Bonavista community.
Situated alongside Lake Bonavista's serene waters, this park provides a peaceful retreat where dogs can explore while their owners enjoy stunning water views and distant mountain vistas.
The park features a mix of open grasslands and shaded areas, with mature trees providing natural shelter and creating distinct environmental zones for various activities.
Well-maintained pathways wind through Lake Bonavista Off-Leash Area 2, connecting different areas while offering excellent views of the lake and surrounding residential landscape.
The integration with Lake Bonavista's community spaces makes this park a popular gathering spot for both local residents and visitors seeking a scenic off-leash experience.
Park Map
Quick Facts
- Location: 915 Lake Ontario Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2J 4X9
- Size: 3.5 hectares (8.6 acres)
- Type: Lakeside off-leash area with mixed terrain
- Terrain: Gentle slopes with lakeside paths
- Surface: Natural grass, gravel paths
- Parking: Street parking along Lake Ontario Dr SE
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Special Features: Lake views, mountain vistas, connected pathway system
Access Points & Parking
- Main Entrance: Lake Ontario Drive SE
- North Access: Lake Bonavista Drive connection
- South Gate: Lakeside pathway entrance
- East Entry: Residential street access
- West Access: Lake pathway system
- Transit: Route 81 bus stop within 5-minute walk
Essential Gear for Lake Bonavista Off-Leash Area 2
Park Essentials
Must-have items for your visit:
Seasonal Gear
Weather protection essentials:
Popular Walking Routes
- Lakeside Loop (1.8 km): Scenic waterfront circuit
- Vista Trail (1.2 km): Mountain view pathway
- Community Connection (0.9 km): Residential area link
- Morning Meadow (0.7 km): Sunrise viewing route
- Evening Path (1.5 km): Sunset walking circuit
Wildlife Awareness
- Waterfowl near shoreline
- Ground squirrels in grassy areas
- Rabbits in shrub zones
- Various songbirds year-round
- Occasional deer at dawn/dusk
- Seasonal migratory birds
Visitor Tips
- Spectacular sunrise over lake
- Best mountain views mid-morning
- Popular evening gathering spot
- Watch for waterfowl near the shore
- Multiple benches for resting
- Photography opportunities abundant at Lake Bonavista Off-Leash Area 2
Best Times to Visit
- Early Morning (5:30-7:30 AM): Peaceful lakeside walks
- Mid-Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): Clear mountain views
- Late Afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM): Community social time
- Evening (7:00-9:00 PM): Stunning sunset views
Safety Guidelines
- Keep distance from water edge
- Watch for cyclists on paths
- Respect wildlife areas
- Mind slippery conditions
- Stay on designated trails
- Bring water for dogs
Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- Waterfowl return
- Lakeside flowers bloom
- Morning mist common
- Perfect walking weather
Summer (June-August)
- Early morning best time
- Water activities increase
- Evening gatherings popular
- Shaded areas essential
Fall (September-November)
- Spectacular fall colors
- Clear mountain views
- Crisp morning walks
- Migratory birds visible
Winter (December-February)
- Snow-covered vistas
- Lake ice features
- Winter wildlife active
- Cleared main paths
Nearby Dog Parks
Fish Creek Marshall Springs
10 min (7.1 km) drive via Canyon Meadows Dr SE W and James Mckevitt Rd SW
Sue Higgins Park
6 min (5.4 km) drive via Bow Bottom Trail SE
River Park Calgary
19 min (18.2 km) drive via AB-8 W