Sue Higgins Dog Park: Calgary's Ultimate Off-Leash Paradise

Sue Higgins Dog Park stands as Calgary's crown jewel among off-leash destinations, sprawling across an impressive 62 hectares of pristine riverside paradise along the mighty Bow River.


This extraordinary park, formerly known as Southland Dog Park, transforms every visit into an adventure with its diverse blend of riverside habitats, expansive open meadows, and carefully maintained gravel pathways that welcome dogs and their humans year-round.


What sets Sue Higgins Dog Park apart is its exceptional river frontage featuring multiple safe water access points, where your furry friend can splash, swim, and cool off during those hot Calgary summers.


The park's varied terrain creates endless exploration opportunities, from gentle flat trails perfect for senior dogs to rolling hills that challenge the most energetic pups.


Named in honor of Sue Higgins, Calgary's beloved former alderman affectionately known as the "Dog Lady" for her tireless advocacy of off-leash spaces, this park represents the very best of what Calgary dog parks have to offer.


Strategically positioned at the intersection of Southland Drive and Deerfoot Trail, Sue Higgins Dog Park provides convenient access from every corner of our sprawling city while offering enough space that even during peak times, your dog can find room to roam freely.

Important 2025 Updates for Sue Higgins Dog Park

🚧 Current Construction Notice (August - December 2025)

The City of Calgary is enhancing river access at Sue Higgins Dog Park with exciting improvements running through December 2025.


These upgrades include new gentle gravel ramps, natural rock features, and native plant installations that will make river access safer for families, seniors, and dog owners while protecting our beautiful natural environment.


During construction, clear signage and onsite staff will guide visitors, ensuring your Sue Higgins Dog Park experience remains enjoyable and safe.


The park remains fully open during construction with alternative access routes clearly marked throughout the improvement period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sue Higgins Dog Park

Is Sue Higgins Dog Park open today?

Yes! Sue Higgins Dog Park welcomes visitors daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 365 days a year, making it perfect for early morning adventures or peaceful evening strolls.

What time does Sue Higgins Dog Park open?

Sue Higgins Dog Park opens bright and early at 5:00 AM every single day, giving you and your pup plenty of time to enjoy the tranquil morning hours along the Bow River.

How big is Sue Higgins Dog Park?

At 62 magnificent hectares (approximately 153 acres), Sue Higgins Dog Park claims the title as Calgary's largest fully-fenced off-leash area, providing endless space for dogs of all sizes and energy levels.

Can dogs swim at Sue Higgins Dog Park?

Absolutely! Sue Higgins Dog Park features four distinct river access points along the Bow River, including shallow wading areas perfect for nervous swimmers and deeper sections for confident water dogs.

Is Sue Higgins Dog Park fully fenced?

Yes, the entire Sue Higgins Dog Park perimeter is securely fenced, providing peace of mind for dog owners and creating a safe environment where dogs can explore off-leash without worry.

Where is parking at Sue Higgins Dog Park?

Sue Higgins Dog Park offers two convenient parking areas: a main lot at the north entrance with washroom facilities, and a southern lot providing quick access to the river areas.

Sue Higgins Dog Park Location & Map

Complete Sue Higgins Dog Park Information

Sue Higgins Dog Park Access Points & Navigation

🅿️ North Parking & Main Entrance

The primary Sue Higgins Dog Park entrance features the largest parking area, clean public washrooms, an informational kiosk with park maps, and donated poop bag dispensers.


This entrance provides immediate access to the agility equipment area and connects directly to the main trail network.

🅿️ South Parking & River Access

The southern entrance offers closer proximity to the Bow River access points, making it ideal for water-loving dogs and summer visits.


This lot tends to be less crowded and provides quick access to the quieter sections of Sue Higgins Dog Park.

🌉 Pedestrian Bridge Connection

Sue Higgins Dog Park connects to Calgary's extensive pathway system via a pedestrian bridge, allowing access from the east side of the Bow River.


This route is perfect for cyclists and walkers approaching from Fish Creek Provincial Park or other connected trail systems.

🚌 Public Transit Access

Multiple Calgary Transit bus routes serve Southland Drive SE, with stops within walking distance of Sue Higgins Dog Park entrances.


Check the Calgary Transit app for current schedules and route information to plan your visit accordingly.

Essential Gear for Sue Higgins Park

Park Essentials

Must-have items for your visit:

Seasonal Gear

Weather protection essentials:

Sue Higgins Dog Park Trail System & Walking Routes

🌊 Bow River Loop Trail (45-60 minutes)

The signature 2.5 km riverside trail showcases the best of Sue Higgins Dog Park, featuring multiple water access points, scenic river views, and opportunities for dogs to swim and wade.


This moderately-paced route includes gentle elevation changes and provides excellent photo opportunities with Calgary's skyline as a backdrop.

🌾 Open Meadow Circuit (30-40 minutes)

Perfect for high-energy dogs, this 1.8 km route winds through expansive grass fields and training areas where dogs can practice recall and enjoy unlimited fetch sessions.


The meadow trail connects to the agility equipment zone and offers excellent sight lines for monitoring dogs at play.

🌲 Woodland Discovery Path (20-30 minutes)

A peaceful 1.2 km shaded trail meandering through the wooded sections of Sue Higgins Dog Park, ideal for hot summer days or quiet exploration with reactive dogs.


This route features the historic Les Deux Chiens Assis bronze sculptures and provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

🎯 Complete Grand Tour (60-75 minutes)

The ultimate Sue Higgins Dog Park experience covers 3.5 km of diverse terrain, incorporating riverside paths, meadow trails, wooded areas, and all major park amenities.


This comprehensive route allows dogs to experience every habitat type while providing owners with a thorough workout and endless entertainment.

Wildlife & Natural Features at Sue Higgins Dog Park

🦆 Aquatic Wildlife

The Bow River corridor supports diverse waterfowl populations including mallards, Canada geese, and great blue herons that frequent the riverbanks year-round.


Beavers actively maintain lodges along the river, and their engineering projects create fascinating educational opportunities for visitors.

🦌 Land Mammals

White-tailed deer commonly appear during dawn and dusk hours, particularly in the wooded sections and meadow edges of Sue Higgins Dog Park.


Richardson's ground squirrels populate the open areas, providing endless entertainment for dogs with strong prey drives.

🐦 Songbird Haven

The diverse habitat zones support over 50 bird species, from red-winged blackbirds in the marshy areas to woodpeckers in the mature poplar groves.


Spring and fall migrations bring additional species, making Sue Higgins Dog Park a popular destination for Calgary birdwatchers.

🌿 Plant Communities

Native balsam poplar and trembling aspen dominate the wooded areas, while the grasslands feature both native rough fescue and naturalized brome grass.


Wetland areas showcase cattails, sedges, and rushes, creating important habitat corridors within the urban landscape.

Insider Tips for Sue Higgins Dog Park Success

🏊 Water Safety & Fun

  • Always check current river conditions before allowing dogs to swim - spring runoff can create dangerous situations

  • Bring water toys specifically designed for river play - tennis balls can be swept away by current

  • Use only the four designated river access points to protect fragile bank vegetation and ensure safe entry/exit

  • Rinse dogs with fresh water after river play to remove algae and sediment that can cause skin irritation

🎾 Training & Enrichment

  • The dedicated small dog area provides a perfect environment for socializing nervous or smaller breeds safely

  • Agility equipment areas offer free training opportunities - bring treats to reward successful navigation

  • Early morning visits (6:00-8:00 AM) provide ideal conditions for training sessions with minimal distractions

  • The meadow areas serve as excellent spaces for practicing long-distance recall in a controlled environment

🚗 Parking & Logistics

  • North parking lot washrooms include baby changing stations and are heated during winter months

  • Arrive before 9:00 AM on weekends to secure prime parking spots and enjoy less crowded conditions

  • Free poop bags are available at all five entrance gates, donated by conscientious park users

  • The southern parking area provides easier access for visitors with mobility challenges

📸 Photography & Memories

  • The historic bronze dog sculptures near Nora Tuckey's Grove create perfect photo opportunities

  • Golden hour lighting (one hour before sunset) transforms the riverside areas into magical photography settings

  • Spring wildflower blooms in the meadow areas provide stunning natural backdrops for dog portraits

  • Winter visits often feature beautiful hoarfrost on trees and dramatic ice formations along the river

Best Times to Experience Sue Higgins Dog Park

🌅 Early Morning Magic (6:00-9:00 AM)

Experience Sue Higgins Dog Park at its most serene, with morning mist rising from the Bow River and wildlife at their most active.


Perfect for dogs requiring quieter socialization opportunities and owners seeking peaceful reflection time.


Cooler temperatures make this ideal for summer visits and energetic breeds that overheat easily.

☀️ Mid-Morning Social Hour (9:00-11:00 AM)

The favorite time for Sue Higgins Dog Park regulars, offering the perfect balance of activity and manageability.


Established dog friendships and experienced owners create a welcoming environment for newcomers.


Ideal weather conditions year-round, with morning temperatures moderated but full daylight for visibility.

🎾 Afternoon Adventure (3:00-6:00 PM)

Peak social time at Sue Higgins Dog Park, with the highest concentration of visitors and maximum play opportunities.


Perfect for confident, well-socialized dogs who thrive in busy environments with lots of playmates.


Excellent for owners seeking community connections and dogs requiring extensive exercise sessions.

🌅 Sunset Serenity (6:00-8:00 PM)

Experience breathtaking riverside sunsets while enjoying peaceful evening walks as the crowds disperse.


Perfect temperature for summer visits, with beautiful lighting for photography enthusiasts.


Ideal for senior dogs or those preferring gentler exercise with spectacular scenic rewards.

Comprehensive Safety Guidelines for Sue Higgins Dog Park

🌊 Water Safety Protocols

  • Assess river conditions before each visit - high water levels can create dangerous currents and hidden hazards

  • Supervise all dogs near water regardless of swimming ability - even confident swimmers can encounter unexpected difficulties

  • Use designated river access points only to protect bank stability and ensure safe entry/exit options

  • Keep dogs visible at all times when near water - the Bow River's current can quickly sweep animals downstream

  • Bring fresh water for drinking - river water may contain bacteria or algae harmful to dogs

🚴 Trail Etiquette & Shared Spaces

  • Maintain awareness of cyclists on paved pathways - they have right-of-way and may approach quickly

  • Use voice control commands consistently - even in off-leash areas, dogs must respond to owner direction

  • Respect small dog area boundaries - size-separated spaces protect smaller breeds from overwhelming play

  • Clean up immediately after your dog - carry extra bags and dispose of waste in provided receptacles

  • Monitor dog interactions continuously - intervene early if play becomes too rough or one-sided

🦆 Wildlife Interaction Guidelines

  • Prevent dogs from chasing waterfowl - this behavior stresses wildlife and may violate city bylaws

  • Keep dogs away from beaver lodges and dens to avoid potential aggressive encounters

  • During deer sighting, maintain control of dogs to prevent chasing behavior that can injure both animals

  • Avoid ground squirrel areas if your dog has intense prey drive - digging can damage park infrastructure

  • Report any aggressive wildlife encounters to Calgary Parks immediately for community safety

⚠️ Seasonal Hazard Awareness

  • Winter ice conditions near riverbanks can be unstable - keep dogs on solid ground during freeze/thaw cycles

  • Spring flooding may close river access areas - check Calgary Parks website for current conditions

  • Summer heat can overheat dogs quickly in open areas - provide shade breaks and fresh water frequently

  • Fall hunting season may increase wildlife stress - maintain closer dog supervision during this period

  • Construction zones (2025) require extra attention to posted signage and safe route alternatives

Complete Seasonal Guide to Sue Higgins Dog Park

🌸 Spring Awakening (March-May)

What to Expect:

  • Dramatically fluctuating river levels due to mountain snowmelt and spring runoff

  • Extensive muddy conditions throughout park trails, especially near water access points

  • Return migration of songbirds creates excellent wildlife viewing opportunities

  • Emerging wildflowers begin transforming meadow areas into colorful displays

  • Variable weather conditions require flexible preparation for rapid changes

Spring Success Tips:

  • Bring dog towels and cleaning supplies for muddy paws and coats

  • Check river conditions before visits - access may be restricted during high water

  • Layer clothing for temperature swings between morning and afternoon

  • Expect longer drying times for wet dogs due to cooler temperatures

☀️ Summer Paradise (June-August)

Peak Season Highlights:

  • River play reaches its absolute prime with stable water levels and warm temperatures

  • Early morning visits become essential for heat-sensitive breeds and comfortable exercise

  • Shaded woodland areas provide crucial relief during Calgary's hottest days

  • Sue Higgins Dog Park often hosts community events and training workshops

  • Extended daylight hours allow for evening visits with spectacular sunset views

Summer Strategy:

  • Plan visits before 10:00 AM or after 6:00 PM to avoid peak heat

  • Bring extra water for both dogs and humans - dehydration happens quickly

  • Utilize wooded sections for shaded rest breaks during longer visits

  • Consider water shoes for river access areas with hot sand or rocks

🍂 Autumn Glory (September-November)

Fall Features:

  • Spectacular riverside colors as poplar and aspen trees transform into golden displays

  • Ideal moderate weather conditions for extended hiking and training sessions

  • Reduced water activity as temperatures cool, creating calmer riverside environments

  • Perfect conditions for serious training work with fewer distractions

  • Migrating waterfowl create dynamic wildlife viewing opportunities

Autumn Advantages:

  • Comfortable temperatures for dogs of all ages and fitness levels

  • Excellent photographic conditions with dramatic seasonal colors

  • Ideal training weather for dogs preparing for winter activities

  • Less crowded conditions as summer visitors transition to indoor activities

❄️ Winter Wonderland (December-February)

Cold Weather Features:

  • Regular path maintenance ensures accessibility throughout Calgary's winter months

  • Dangerous ice formations near river edges require constant vigilance and caution

  • Increased wildlife activity as animals seek food sources in urban areas

  • Heated washroom facilities at north parking lot provide essential warming stations

  • Beautiful hoarfrost and snow-covered landscapes create magical winter scenery

Winter Preparation:

  • Consider dog boots for paws sensitive to salt, ice, and cold surfaces

  • Dress in layers and bring hand warmers for extended outdoor time

  • Monitor dogs closely for signs of cold stress or hypothermia

  • Keep visits shorter during extreme cold weather conditions

  • Use north parking lot for access to heated facilities and weather protection

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

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Sources & References

This comprehensive Sue Higgins Dog Park guide was researched and compiled using the following verified sources: