The best city hikes and walks around Rocky View County
4.6
(76)
1,534
hikers
70
hikes
Urban hiking trails around Rocky View County offer diverse landscapes, from river valleys to open parklands and canal pathways. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Bow and Elbow Rivers, providing scenic routes through urban green spaces. While some trails traverse open prairies, others follow established pathways, offering varied terrain for exploration.
Best urban hiking trails around Rocky View County
- The most popular urban hiking route is Riverfront Park to Bow River shores, a 2.8 miles (4.5…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
14
hikers
3.54km
00:54
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
4.55km
01:10
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
6.17km
01:36
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
22.5km
05:50
130m
130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
50.6km
12:46
70m
70m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Rocky View County
Tips from the Community
This small spur leads to a nice viewpoint of the Bow River, which travels from Banff National Park to the Hudson Bay, a 587-kilometer journey. It's known for its fast-moving water and fishing.
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The River Avenue Bridge is a truss bridge that spans about 200 meters over the Bow River, carrying pedestrians over the waterway with scenic views below.
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There are parking lots on both ends of this long paved section of the Trans Canada Trail where dogs can run off-leash. There is access to the river but not a lot of shade, so come prepared.
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Set on the slopes of Signal Hill, Battalion Park is home to one of Calgary’s most distinctive viewpoints. The hillside is marked by four large stone numerals, made up of 16,000 whitewashed rocks arranged to honour the battalions that trained here during the First World War. Trails and staircases climb to lookouts above the city and the Tsuut’ina Nation, making it a simple outing for anyone interested in great views and local history.
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Circling the entire city, the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway links neighbourhoods, wetlands, parks, and open prairie into one long, easy to follow loop. The paved pathway rolls through more than a dozen green spaces, passing fitness parks, off‑leash areas, and quiet stretches of grassland as it connects over 50 communities throughout Calgary.
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The Riverfront Park trail follows the banks of the Bow River through Riverfront Park in Cochrane. This easy paved pathway runs beside the fast-moving river and offers frequent views of the water as it winds through the valley. Benches and small viewpoints along the route make it a pleasant place to pause and watch the river, while the path connects with Cochrane’s wider trail network for longer walks along the Bow River corridor.
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This section of the riverside path along the Bow River offers a quiet place to pause beside the water. A bench here looks out over the broad river as it flows past Cochrane, making it a pleasant spot to sit and take in the view. The Bow River is known for its clear, glacier-fed water flowing from the Rocky Mountains. While people sometimes wade along the shoreline in summer, the current can be strong and the water stays very cold year-round, so entering the river should be done with caution.
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Riverfront Park sits along the banks of the Bow River in Cochrane. The park is known for its scenic riverside pathways that follow the Bow River through the heart of town. Wooden boardwalks, benches, and viewpoints along the trail make it a pleasant place to pause and watch the fast-moving river below. The park also connects to Cochrane’s larger pathway system, making it a popular starting point for walking and cycling along the river valley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Rocky View County?
Komoot offers nearly 70 urban hiking trails in Rocky View County. These routes cater to various preferences, with a significant number being easy to moderate, perfect for exploring the region's urban landscapes.
Are there easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Rocky View County features many easy urban hikes. For a gentle stroll along the water, consider the Riverfront Park to Bow River shores route. These trails are generally flat and well-maintained, offering pleasant experiences for all ages.
Can I find urban hiking routes that are circular?
Absolutely. Many urban trails in Rocky View County are designed as loops, providing a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the popular Peace Bridge (Calgary) – Prince's Island Park loop from McMahon Stadium and the longer Prince's Island Park – Peace Bridge (Calgary) loop from Olympic Oval, both offering scenic views of the city and river.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Rocky View County?
The komoot community highly rates urban hiking in Rocky View County, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the beautiful riverfront views, and the opportunity to experience nature within an urban setting.
Are there any longer or more challenging urban hikes in the area?
For those seeking a more challenging urban adventure, Rocky View County offers longer routes. The The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland via Elbow River Pathway — Calgary route is a difficult option, spanning over 22 kilometers. Another significant challenge is the Western Headworks Canal Pathway, which is over 50 kilometers long and offers a unique perspective on the region's infrastructure and natural beauty.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on urban hikes in Rocky View County?
Urban hikes in Rocky View County offer a blend of natural and developed landscapes. You'll find trails winding along river valleys like the Bow and Elbow Rivers, through parklands, and alongside historic sites. While primarily urban, many routes incorporate green spaces, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna.
Are there urban trails that pass by notable landmarks or points of interest?
Yes, several urban trails in Rocky View County incorporate significant landmarks. Routes often pass by iconic structures like the Peace Bridge in Calgary, and offer views of the city skyline. You can also explore areas like Prince's Island Park, which is a popular urban oasis.
When is the best time of year for urban hiking in Rocky View County?
Urban hiking in Rocky View County is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather. Even in winter, many urban pathways are maintained, allowing for crisp, scenic walks, though conditions can vary.
Are urban hiking trails in Rocky View County generally accessible by public transport?
Given their urban nature, many trailheads and access points for these routes are often well-served by public transportation networks, particularly those closer to Calgary. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific starting points.
What should I wear for urban hiking in Rocky View County?
For urban hiking, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Layered clothing is recommended as weather can change, especially near the river. While not as rugged as mountain trails, it's always wise to be prepared for varying conditions, including sun protection and a water bottle.
Are there urban trails where I might spot wildlife?
Even within urban settings, Rocky View County's green spaces and river corridors can be home to various wildlife. On trails along the Bow and Elbow Rivers, you might spot birds, small mammals, and even deer, especially during quieter times of day.
Most popular routes around Rocky View County
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