Staff Picks: 4 Calgary Walks We Love Right Now

If you’re looking for a new spot to get some exercise in the coming weeks, here are four walks Avenue’s staff are loving right now in Calgary.

With spring well underway now, getting outside for a daily walk or run has become an essential part of getting through this pandemic for many. If you’re looking for a new spot to get some exercise in the coming weeks, here are four walks Avenue‘s staff are loving in Calgary right now.

 

Tom Campbell Hill in Bridgeland

Photograph by Jaelyn Molyneux.

I am fortunate to live in the south end of Bridgeland right across from St. Patrick’s Island and the RiverWalk, but every morning before work I walk in my own neighbourhood. I hike up to Tom Campbell Hill where the payoff is panoramic views of downtown, the Calgary Zoo and Deerfoot Trail, all cast in the glow of early morning light. On the south end is an observation point — built with donations from the Sikh Community of Calgary — that includes information on the grasslands and wildflowers in the park, which is also an off-leash park for dogs. The way home is a downhill meander through Bridgeland down a different street each day to look at the houses. — Jaelyn Molyneux, Director of Digital Content and Strategy 

 

Between Riley Park and McHugh Bluff

Living in Sunnyside means I’m spoiled with choices for scenic walks. The Peace Bridge, river pathways and the converted lane of Memorial Drive are great for times when I want to remember there’s still a world out there. But my favourite kind of walk is a quieter stroll with enough privacy to reflect in peace. I wander between Riley Park and McHugh Bluff along the alleyways, crooked streets and hilly pathways, typically pausing to admire the Rainbow Bridge next to Kensington Road N.W. I see a small number of dogs and people — and it’s a great area for Pokémon Go if I’m in the mood — but mostly it feels like the area exists for my private enjoyment. — Colin Gallant, Assistant Editor

 

Douglas Fir Trail to Edworthy Park

Photograph by Jared Sych.

Heading west from Sunalta’s cluster of condos and apartment buildings, past the One Way Foods convenience store and towards the Douglas Fir Trail on the south side of the Bow River, I found a hidden mountain-esque experience. Along the trail to Edworthy Park, you’re not only met with an up-close view of the hurrying river but also the silence and calmness that the less-travelled path offers. The crown jewel though is the glacial-looking run-off that covers a portion of the path throughout the year. When I’m forced to clumsily traverse the icy roadblock, I’m immediately transported to the mountains without ever getting on Highway 1. — Travis Klemp, Editorial Intern

 

The Elbow River Pathway

Going for a daily run or walk along the Elbow River has been my saving grace during this pandemic. After making my way through Lower Mount Royal and Cliff Bungalow, I head over to Mission to access the Elbow River Pathway that runs along Elbow Drive S.W. and the Elbow River. While the river views are enough of a reason to travel this route, there’s also plenty of room to keep your distance from others thanks to a lane of traffic that has been blocked off for pedestrians on Elbow Drive starting at 4 Street S.W. The lane is blocked off for several blocks, though I prefer to loop back earlier by crossing over the Elbow River Suspension Bridge and running through Rideau Park’s residential area until I reach Mission again. It’s a scenic way to take in the river without having to worry about overcrowding. — Alana Willerton, Digital Editor

Want more suggestions for the best things to do in Calgary? Sign up for our Weekender Newsletter.

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