Sue Higgins Dog Park Overview
Sue Higgins Dog Park, once called Southland Dog Park, reigns as Calgary’s largest off-leash gem along the Bow River.
Spanning 62 hectares, it blends riverside habitats, open meadows, and gravel paths for year-round enjoyment.
Extensive river frontage offers safe water play spots, with varied terrain from flat trails to gentle hills.
Named for Sue Higgins, a former alderman dubbed the "Dog Lady" for her off-leash advocacy, it’s a Calgary standout.
Located at Southland Drive and Deerfoot Trail, it’s accessible citywide and spacious enough to avoid crowds.
Sue Higgins Dog Park Park Map
Quick Facts
- Location: Southland Drive SE & Deerfoot Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2J 7A4
- Size: 62 hectares (~153 acres)
- Type: Fully fenced off-leash park
- Terrain: Riverside, meadows, wooded areas
- Surface: Gravel paths, grass, sandy riverbanks
- Parking: Two large lots at north and south ends
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Special Features: River access, agility equipment, small dog zone
Sue Higgins Dog Park Access Points & Parking
- North Parking Lot: Main entry with washrooms and info kiosk
- South Parking Lot: Quick path to the river
- Pedestrian Bridge: Sue Higgins access from east Bow River side
- Transit Access: Bus stops on Southland Drive SE
- Regional Pathway: Ties into Bow River pathways
Essential Gear for Sue Higgins Park
Park Essentials
Must-have items for your visit:
Popular Walking Routes
- River Loop (45 minutes): 2.5 km along the Bow River with water access
- Meadow Trail (30 minutes): 1.8 km through open fields and training zones
- Forest Path (20 minutes): 1.2 km shaded wooded trail
- Complete Circuit (60 minutes): 3.5 km covering all park highlights
Sue Higgins Dog Park Wildlife Awareness
- Waterfowl line the river year-round
- Beavers build along the riverbanks
- Deer appear at dawn and dusk
- Ground squirrels roam open areas
- Songbirds nest in wooded spots
Visitor Tips
- Pack water toys for summer river fun
- Check river levels before water play
- Stick to marked river access points
- Small dog area suits shy pets
- North lot has washrooms
Best Times to Visit
- Early Morning (6:00-9:00 AM): Calm with river mist
- Mid-Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): Regulars’ favorite time
- Late Afternoon (3:00-6:00 PM): Busy and social
- Evening (6:00-8:00 PM): Serene sunset riverside walks
Safety Guidelines
- Check river conditions before play
- Use only designated river entries
- Keep dogs visible near water
- Mind cyclists on shared paths
- Respect small dog area boundaries
Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- High river levels possible
- Muddy patches common
- Birds migrate back
- Great for long walks
Summer (June-August)
- River play peaks
- Morning visits beat heat
- Shade in wooded areas
- Sue Higgins Calgary hosts events
Fall (September-November)
- Riverside colors pop
- Mild weather
- Less water activity
- Ideal for training
Winter (December-February)
- Paths cleared regularly
- Ice near river edges
- Winter wildlife out
- Warm washrooms at north lot
Sue Higgins Nearby Dog Parks
Carburn Park
10 minutes north, lagoons and wildlife
Fish Creek Park - Votier’s Flats
15 minutes south, natural trails
Fish Creek Park - Marshall Springs
20 minutes south, river paths
Calgary Dog Parks
Explore more off-leash areas