There are multiple reasons to go for a walk. It’s unseasonably warm, your dog is antsy and a walk is good for the ‘ol ticker.
Sometimes though, it can be extremely difficult to tear yourself away from Netflix’s new releases.
So we’ve created six loop walks with the ultimate draw; tasty treats. Each walk starts at a location with free parking, eliminating another excuse not to go, stops midway at a local spot for a snack and are dog friendly. Burn some calories so you can eat more!
Lics Loop
The Walk
Park in Edworthy Park’s north lot where Bowness Road meets Shaganappi Trail. Stay on the Bow River Pathway for a round trip of about 50 minutes.
The Snack
Leavitt’s Ice Cream Shop (Lics) has dozens of ice cream flavours to choose from. Opt for a sugar cone with a scoop of mint chocolate chip and enjoy as you amble back.
3410 3 Ave. N.W., 403-283-3578, lics.ca
Bowness Wander
The Walk
Park in the lot just east of the Shouldice Aquatic Centre. Walk across the Shouldice Bridge and continue along Bowness Road. For a slightly longer, more scenic route, turn right onto Bow Crescent and make an eventual left on 63 Street N.W.
The Snack
Cadence Coffee is a neighbourhood diner and coffee shop with excellent espresso and tasty baked goods. Order an Americano and a squirrel treat (a cookie packed with molasses, nuts and raisins).
6407 Bowness Rd. N.W., 403-247-9955, cadencecoffee.com
River Park Ramble
The Walk
Park in the Sandy Beach Park parking lot. Head north through the River Park off leash park. Yay, happy dogs! Continue into South Calgary until you hit 34 Avenue S.W.
The Snack
Fresh baked muffins are a definite draw at Bell’s Bookstore Caf. The muffins are made on site and are often warm from the oven. Grab a muffin and a latte to go. Be prepared to protect your muffin from hungry dogs as you walk back.
1515a 34 Ave. S.W., bellsbookstorecafe.com
Stanley Park Stroll
The Walk
Park in the Stanley Park lot off 42 Avenue S.W. Make your way west through the park and then through the neighbourhood. Your turnaround point is Britannia Plaza.
The Snack
Village Ice Cream is made locally. If you’ve ever needed an excuse to eat ice cream, supporting a local business is a darn good one. Try a scoop of the fragrant cardamom and a scoop of the salty and sweet salted caramel.
Britannia Plaza, 820 49 Ave. S.W., 403-457-9808, villageicecream.com
Crescent Heights Tramp
The Walk
Park along the street in the one hour free parking along Crescent Road N.W. Head west along McHugh Bluff Park into Sunnyside.
The Snack
Stop at Vendome Caf for a double macchiato and a cinnamon bun to go. Walk back towards your car. Find a park bench along the top of McHugh Bluff Park for beautiful city views and enjoy your tasty treat.
940 2 Ave. N.W., 403-453-1140, vendomecafe.com
Confederation Park Mosey
The Walk
Park in the lot off 30 Avenue N.W. Head southwest through Confederation Park and then through Capitol Hill towards 18 Street and 20 Avenue N.W.
The Snack
Pop into Edelweiss Village and stock up on German candy. We suggest Efruti’s sour fruit juice berries, a handful of marzipan shaped farm animals and some licorice cats (Katjes Lakritz Batzen). Munch as you meander back.
1921 20 Ave. N.W., 403-282-6600, edelweissimports.com