Park Overview
Nestled in the historic Ramsay neighborhood, one of Calgary's oldest communities, the Ramsay Off-Leash Dog Park offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty.
This inner-city gem spans approximately 3 acres, making it one of the most accessible dog parks in Calgary for downtown residents and visitors alike.
The park's elevated position provides stunning views of downtown Calgary's skyline, creating a dramatic backdrop for your daily dog walks.
Situated near the Scotsman's Hill viewpoint, this off-leash area benefits from the same spectacular vantage point that makes the location famous for watching the Calgary Stampede fireworks.
The park features a mix of open grassy areas and naturalized sections, with mature trees providing shade and creating distinct activity zones for dogs of all sizes.
Quick Facts
- Location: 811 MacDonald Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4M3
- Size: 3 acres
- Type: Unfenced urban park
- Terrain: Hillside with mixed elevation
- Surface: Natural grass, gravel paths
- Parking: Street parking on MacDonald Avenue SE
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Special Features: Downtown skyline views, Stampede fireworks viewpoint, historic neighborhood setting
Access Points & Parking
- Main Entrance: Primary access from MacDonald Avenue SE
- Hillside Access: Connection to Scotsman's Hill viewpoint
- Community Access: Pathways from Ramsay Street SE
- Transit Access: Bus stops within walking distance on 8 Street SE
- Neighborhood Access: Multiple walking paths connect to the historic Ramsay community
Essential Gear for Ramsay Off-Leash Area
Park Essentials
Must-have items for your visit:
Seasonal Gear
Weather protection essentials:
Popular Walking Routes
- Skyline Circuit (20 minutes): Loop along the upper ridge with downtown views
- Heritage Path (15 minutes): Trail through historic neighborhood sections
- Scotsman's Connection (30 minutes): Extended route linking to Scotsman's Hill
- Community Loop (25 minutes): Circular path with varied elevation changes
Wildlife Awareness
- Urban wildlife adapted to the inner-city environment
- Jackrabbits frequent the grassy areas year-round
- Various songbirds nest in mature trees
- Watch for ground squirrels during warmer months
- Occasional coyote sightings in early morning hours
Visitor Tips
- Best skyline views during sunset and sunrise
- Popular spot during Stampede fireworks
- Bring water as no fountains available
- Hill terrain provides natural exercise challenge
- Street parking can be busy during events
Best Times to Visit
- Early Morning (5:30-8:00 AM): Quiet time with sunrise views
- Mid-Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): Comfortable temperatures for exercise
- Late Afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM): Community social time
- Evening (7:00-9:00 PM): Spectacular sunset views of downtown
Safety Guidelines
- Keep dogs away from steep hillside edges
- Use extra caution during icy conditions
- Bring lighting for dawn/dusk visits
- Watch for cyclists on shared paths
- Be mindful of private property boundaries
Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- Hill drainage creates some muddy areas
- Early wildflowers bloom on slopes
- Perfect weather for longer visits
- Morning frost on grass early season
Summer (June-August)
- Stampede fireworks viewing spot
- Early morning visits recommended
- Shade limited in open areas
- Evening community gatherings
Fall (September-November)
- Spectacular fall colors
- Clear days offer best city views
- Comfortable walking temperatures
- Less crowded evening hours
Winter (December-February)
- Hillside can be icy
- Chinook winds provide warm breaks
- Downtown lights create evening ambiance
- Snow-cleared main paths
Nearby Dog Parks
Tom Campbell's Hill Off-Leash Dog Park
5 minutes drive, panoramic city views
Pearce Estate Park
8 minutes drive, riverside trails and wetlands
Sue Higgins Dog Park
12 minutes drive, featuring river access and agility equipment