Park Overview
Nestled in the vibrant inner-city community of Sunalta, this urban gem stands out among dog parks in Calgary for its unique blend of city views and community charm.
The park's elevated position offers stunning views of downtown Calgary's skyline, creating a dramatic backdrop for your daily dog walks.
This compact but well-designed space features a mix of open grassy areas and mature trees, providing both sun and shade throughout the day.
The park's integration with the surrounding residential area creates a strong sense of community, where local dog owners regularly gather to socialize.
Its proximity to the Bow River pathway system makes it an ideal starting point for extended walks into Calgary's extensive urban trail network.
Quick Facts
- Location: Calgary, AB
- Size: 3.2 acres
- Type: Urban neighborhood park
- Terrain: Gently sloping with grass and paved pathways
- Surface: Mixed (grass, gravel, paved paths)
- Parking: Street parking on adjacent residential streets
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
- Special Features: Downtown views, community gathering space, evening lighting
Access Points & Parking
- Main Entrance: Access from 16 Street SW
- Secondary Access: Entry points from 15 Street SW
- Transit Access: Close to Sunalta CTrain Station
- Pathway Connection: Links to Bow River pathway system
- Street Parking: Available along adjacent residential streets
Essential Gear for Sunalta Off-Leash Area
Park Essentials
Must-have items for your visit:
Popular Walking Routes
- Skyline Circuit (15 minutes): A loop along the park's upper edge with the best downtown views
- Community Loop (20 minutes): A circuit connecting park pathways with residential streets
- Bow River Extension (45 minutes): Connected pathway to the Bow River system
- Evening Lights Walk (25 minutes): Popular route for enjoying city lights after sunset
Wildlife Awareness
- Urban wildlife adapted to city environment
- Rabbits frequent the grassy areas
- Various songbirds in mature trees
- Occasional magpies and crows
- Ground squirrels maintain burrows in quieter areas
Visitor Tips
- Best downtown photos during golden hour
- Evening lighting makes night visits possible
- Bring your own water and bowls
- Popular with after-work crowd
- Street parking can be busy during peak times
Best Times to Visit
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Quiet time with sunrise city views
- Lunch Hour (12:00-1:00 PM): Popular with local residents
- After Work (5:00-7:00 PM): Busy social atmosphere
- Evening (7:00-9:00 PM): Beautiful city light views
Safety Guidelines
- Keep dogs within sight of downtown overlook areas
- Be mindful of evening pathway users
- Watch for cyclists on connecting paths
- Use provided lighting during evening visits
- Respect residential area quiet hours
Seasonal Information
Spring (March-May)
- Pleasant temperatures for exercise
- Spring flowers begin blooming
- Evening light extends gradually
- Perfect photography conditions
Summer (June-August)
- Early morning visits recommended
- Trees provide good shade
- Evening community gatherings
- Festival views from park
Fall (September-November)
- Beautiful fall colors
- Comfortable temperatures
- Earlier sunset views
- Less crowded evenings
Winter (December-February)
- City lights reflect on snow
- Paths cleared regularly
- Protected from wind
- Magical downtown views
Nearby Dog Parks
River Park Calgary
10 minutes drive, scenic escarpment views
Edworthy Off-Leash Dog Park
8 minutes drive, riverside trails and natural areas
Rotary Park
12 minutes drive, scenic downtown views