Bow River Pathway: Calgary’s Scenic Urban Trail System

A Visitor’s Guide to the Bow River Pathway: Cycling, Walking, and Exploring Along the River

The Bow River Pathway is one of Calgary’s most beloved outdoor spaces, stretching for over 48 kilometers along the banks of the Bow River. This extensive multi-use trail system connects parks, natural areas, and key attractions throughout the city, making it a popular destination for cycling, walking, running, and rollerblading. The pathway offers breathtaking views of the river, downtown Calgary, and the surrounding landscapes, providing both residents and visitors with a scenic way to explore the city.

A Network of Trails Along Calgary’s Beautiful Bow River

The Bow River Pathway system is a key part of Calgary’s urban trail network, linking several parks and neighborhoods with the downtown core. The trail is part of Calgary’s larger pathway system, which totals over 1,000 kilometers of interconnected trails. The Bow River Pathway runs through the heart of the city, offering easy access to some of Calgary’s most iconic landmarks and natural areas.

What to See and Do on the Bow River Pathway

1. Cycling and Biking:
   • The Bow River Pathway is perfect for cycling, with well-maintained paved trails that allow cyclists to easily traverse the length of the river. The pathway is designed for both casual cyclists and more experienced riders, making it accessible for all ages and skill levels.
   • Bike Rentals and Tours:
     • For visitors without a bike, there are several bike rental shops along the pathway, especially in areas close to Prince’s Island Park and East Village. Guided bike tours are also available, offering a fun and informative way to see the city’s major attractions along the river.
   • Popular Cycling Routes:
     • One of the most popular routes for cyclists is the section between Edworthy Park and Prince’s Island Park, which offers scenic views of the river and the downtown skyline. For a longer ride, cyclists can follow the pathway all the way to Fish Creek Provincial Park in the city’s south.
2. Walking and Running:
   • The Bow River Pathway is equally popular for walking and running, offering flat, easy-to-navigate trails with plenty of benches and rest areas along the way. The trail provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the river and Calgary’s urban parks, whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a more vigorous run.
   • Scenic Walks:
     • A popular walking route is the loop around Prince’s Island Park, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful gardens, river views, and wildlife. Peace Bridge, a striking pedestrian bridge over the Bow River, is a favorite spot for walkers and photographers alike.
3. Prince’s Island Park:
   • One of the main highlights of the Bow River Pathway is Prince’s Island Park, a beautiful urban park located on an island in the Bow River, just north of downtown Calgary. The park is a popular destination for picnics, festivals, and outdoor activities, and it offers scenic walking paths that connect directly to the Bow River Pathway.
   • Summer Festivals:
     • Prince’s Island Park hosts several of Calgary’s most popular festivals, including the Calgary Folk Music Festival and Shakespeare by the Bow. The park’s open spaces and riverfront setting make it a perfect spot to enjoy these events.
4. Peace Bridge:
   • The Peace Bridge, an iconic red pedestrian bridge designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, spans the Bow River, connecting the downtown core with the communities of Sunnyside and Hillhurst. The bridge is not only a functional crossing for pedestrians and cyclists but also a striking architectural landmark.
   • Photography and Views:
     • Peace Bridge offers stunning views of the Bow River and the Calgary skyline, making it a must-visit spot for photography. The bridge is especially beautiful at sunset, when the light reflects off the river and the red steel structure.
5. Wildlife and Nature:
   • The Bow River Pathway runs through some of Calgary’s most beautiful natural areas, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can often spot Canada geese, ducks, beavers, and songbirdsalong the riverbanks. The peaceful setting along the river allows for quiet reflection and a connection with nature, even within the city.
   • Fish Creek Provincial Park:
     • For those interested in a more natural setting, the Bow River Pathway connects to Fish Creek Provincial Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks. This area offers extensive trails, forested areas, and even more opportunities to observe wildlife.
6. Picnicking and Relaxation:
   • Along the Bow River Pathway, visitors will find several picnic areas and green spaces perfect for relaxing. Parks such as Bowness Park, St. Patrick’s Island, and Shouldice Park offer riverside spots where you can enjoy a picnic, have a barbecue, or simply sit and take in the scenery.
   • Picnic Spots:
     • Bowness Park is especially popular for picnicking, with picnic shelters, playgrounds, and paddleboat rentals available in the summer. It’s an ideal location for families looking to spend the day outdoors.
7. Rollerblading and Scootering:
   • The smooth, paved pathways along the Bow River are ideal for rollerblading and scootering, making it a popular destination for those who enjoy wheeled activities. The flat terrain and scenic views make it easy to cruise along the riverbank while taking in the city’s natural beauty.
8. Fitness and Outdoor Activities:
   • For fitness enthusiasts, the Bow River Pathway is a great place for outdoor yoga, exercise classes, and running groups. Several fitness groups host events and classes along the pathway, particularly in the open spaces of Prince’s Island Park and other green areas.
   • Outdoor Exercise:
     • The park system also includes several outdoor fitness stations, allowing visitors to incorporate strength training into their walks or runs along the pathway.
9. Canoeing and Kayaking:
   • The Bow River itself is a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are multiple launch points along the pathway, making it easy for water enthusiasts to access the river and enjoy a day on the water.
   • Paddling Rentals:
     • Rentals for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available at Bowness Park and other locations along the Bow River, providing a fun way to explore the river from a different perspective.

How to Get There

The Bow River Pathway runs through much of central Calgary, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

• Public Transport: Several parts of the pathway can be accessed via Calgary Transit, including near Prince’s Island Park, Peace Bridge, and the downtown core.
• Parking: There are multiple parking lots along the pathway, particularly at Bowness Park, Shouldice Park, and near East Village.

Visiting Hours and Admission

The Bow River Pathway is a public trail system, open year-round, and admission is free. Visitors can use the pathway for walking, cycling, and other activities from dawn to dusk.

• Hours: Open daily, from dawn to dusk.
• Admission: Free.

Best Time to Visit

The Bow River Pathway is beautiful in all seasons, but the best times to visit are:

• Summer: Perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying the lush greenery and warm weather.
• Fall: The changing colors of the trees along the river make for a picturesque walk or bike ride.
• Winter: While certain parts of the pathway may be snow-covered, it’s still popular for winter walking and even cross-country skiing in some areas.

A Must-Visit for Outdoor Enthusiasts and City Explorers

Whether you’re cycling along the river, enjoying a picnic in one of Calgary’s parks, or taking in the beautiful views from the Peace Bridge, the Bow River Pathway offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and urban charm of Calgary. With its extensive network of trails and proximity to major attractions, the pathway is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the city’s outdoor spaces.