The best walks and hikes in Fish Creek Provincial Park
4.7
(28)
358
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking in Fish Creek Provincial Park offers access to one of Canada's largest urban provincial parks, characterized by its diverse landscapes. The park features an extensive network of pathways, including paved and shale trails, traversing forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Fish Creek flows through the park, eventually joining the Bow River, providing varied scenery and relatively flat terrain suitable for different activity levels.
Best hiking trails in Fish Creek Provincial Park
- The most popular hiking route is Fish Creek Provincial Park Pathway Loop, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 34 minutes to complete. This route explores the park's varied pathways.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bow River Pathway to Carburn Pond Park loop — Sue Higgins Park, a moderate 6.6 miles (10.7 km) path. This trail follows the Bow River, offering waterfront views.
- Local hikers also love the Fish Creek Bridge loop from McKenzie Lake, a 6.2 miles (9.9 km) trail leading through the park's natural environment, often completed in about 2 hours 33 minutes.
- Hiking in Fish Creek Provincial Park is defined by its extensive pathways, river valleys, and diverse habitats including forests, wetlands, and grasslands. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Fish Creek Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from around 30 reviews. More than 350 hikers have used komoot to explore Fish Creek Provincial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
9.95km
02:34
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
6
hikers
10.7km
02:44
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
14
hikers
9.92km
02:33
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Bow River flows east through Calgary and forms part of the eastern boundary of Fish Creek Provincial Park. In this area, paved pathways and multi-use trails follow its banks, offering scenic access to water views, wildlife, and connections to Calgary’s greater pathway system. The river and adjacent parklands are popular for walking, cycling, fishing and enjoying open-air river scenery within the city’s natural green corridor.
0
0
Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of Canada’s largest urban provincial parks, spanning a long natural valley within Calgary and preserving forest, wetlands, and grassland. The park features more than 100 kilometres of connected paved and unpaved pathways and trails that wind through diverse ecosystems along Fish Creek and its tributaries. Visitors can hike, bike, picnic, watch wildlife and access the Bow River at several points as part of an extensive recreational network.
0
0
The Bow River Pathway is a well-maintained multi-use trail that goes through Calgary, connecting parks, bridges, and viewpoints along the way. It follows the Bow River and offers constant water views with the city skyline or the Rockies in the background. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for a quieter ride or walk.
0
0
The Bow River runs through the heart of Calgary, offering some of the city’s best trails for walking and hiking. The paths follow the river’s edge for long stretches, with views of forested banks, bridges, and open water. It’s a steady, scenic route that feels natural yet stays close to the city, making it a great choice for an easy hike or a longer day on the trail.
0
0
Carburn Park is one of Calgary’s best riverside areas for an easy urban hike. The trails wind through cottonwood forest and around two ponds, with frequent views of the Bow River along the way. The terrain is flat and well-marked, making it ideal for a relaxed walk or a quick break in nature. You’ll often see ducks, geese, and beavers, and the mix of trees, meadows, and calm water gives the park a peaceful feel just minutes from the city.
0
0
Carburn Park Pond is the highlight of the trails here, with calm, mirror-like water surrounded by trees and open sky. As you hike the loop around it, you’ll pass easy gravel paths and plenty of wildlife—ducks, geese, and the occasional beaver working near the shoreline. It’s not a long hike, but the pond’s peaceful setting makes it a great stop to linger, especially when the light hits the water in the early morning or evening.
0
0
The Bow River runs clear and fast through Calgary, cutting a wide path between forested banks and city parkland. Known for its turquoise colour and strong current, it’s one of Alberta’s most recognizable rivers. Trails line much of its length within the city, offering easy access for hiking or cycling with frequent views of the skyline, bridges, and nearby wildlife along the water’s edge.
0
0
Gives you a way to connect from the pathway on the creek valley floor to the one on the higher bank. If you want a better view of the creek valley from above, this is a place you can make that connection. Good for cycling and walking across.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Fish Creek Provincial Park?
Fish Creek Provincial Park offers a wide variety of hiking experiences with over 30 routes recorded on komoot. These include 21 easy trails, 11 moderate trails, and 1 difficult trail, catering to different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails in Fish Creek Provincial Park?
The park features diverse terrain, including over 100 kilometers of pathways. You'll find approximately 30 km of paved paths suitable for all ages and strollers, 50 km of shale trails, and single-track options. The landscape shifts from thin poplar forests along Fish Creek and the Bow River to grasslands, groves, and meadows, with relatively flat sections ideal for leisurely walks.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Fish Creek Provincial Park?
Yes, Fish Creek Provincial Park is very family-friendly. Many of its trails are relatively flat, and the paved pathways are suitable for strollers. The park's diverse environment offers opportunities for nature observation, and there are numerous day-use areas with picnic tables for family outings. An easy option is the Fishing Spot on Fish Creek – Bow Valley Ranche House loop from Deer Run, which is just under 6 km.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Fish Creek Provincial Park?
Yes, Fish Creek Provincial Park is generally dog-friendly, but it's important to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to protect the park's wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always check for specific signage on trails regarding dog access.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for while hiking?
The park is rich in natural features. Fish Creek itself flows throughout the park, eventually joining the Bow River, offering picturesque waterfront views. You can also explore diverse habitats including forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Keep an eye out for the historic Bow Valley Ranche House, built in 1896, and the Sikome Aquatic Facility, a man-made lake for swimming.
What is the best time of year to hike in Fish Creek Provincial Park?
Fish Creek Provincial Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings new growth and active wildlife, while summer offers lush greenery and full access to all facilities. Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors, and even in winter, some pathways are cleared for continued access, with opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when conditions permit.
Are there any circular routes available for hiking in the park?
Yes, many of the trails in Fish Creek Provincial Park are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. A popular option is the Fish Creek Provincial Park Pathway Loop, which is a 10 km moderate trail exploring the park's pathways.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Fish Creek Provincial Park?
Fish Creek Provincial Park is a haven for wildlife. Over 200 bird species have been observed, including great blue herons and bald eagles. Mammals such as deer, coyotes, bobcats, rabbits, beavers, and muskrats are also present. The park's diverse habitats, from forests to wetlands, support a rich variety of animal life.
How accessible is Fish Creek Provincial Park by public transport or car?
The park is well-integrated within Calgary's city limits, making it accessible. It connects to Calgary's larger pathway system, and the Trans Canada Trail also passes through. There are numerous day-use areas with parking facilities throughout the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. For public transport, check local Calgary Transit routes that serve the park's various access points.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Fish Creek Provincial Park?
The hiking routes in Fish Creek Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from around 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the extensive and well-maintained pathways, the diverse natural environment, and the ease of access within the city.
Are there any easy trails for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk?
Absolutely. Fish Creek Provincial Park has 21 easy trails, many of which are relatively flat and follow paved or well-maintained shale paths. These are perfect for a relaxed walk or for beginners. An example is the Fishing Spot on Fish Creek – Bow Valley Ranche House loop from Deer Run, which offers a gentle 5.9 km stroll.
Can I find any trails that offer views of the Bow River?
Yes, several trails in the park follow the Bow River, providing scenic waterfront views. The park is where Fish Creek eventually joins the Bow River, creating picturesque landscapes. A great option for river views is the Bow River Pathway to Carburn Pond Park loop — Sue Higgins Park, a moderate 10.7 km path.
Most popular routes in Fish Creek Provincial Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
