The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Calgary

Komoot offers a selection of 4 easy dog-friendly hiking routes directly within Calgary, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your canine companion. These trails are primarily located in urban green spaces and coulees, providing accessible options for local residents and visitors.

Calgary's unique location offers a diverse range of landscapes. Within the city, you'll find scenic pathways along the Bow and Elbow Rivers, extensive urban parks like Fish Creek Provincial Park and Nose Hill Park, and coulee systems such as the 12 Mile Coulee. Just a short drive west, the majestic Canadian Rockies provide towering peaks, dense pine forests, and stunning alpine lakes, though specific dog regulations vary in national parks.

Yes, several easy, circular routes are available. For example, the Tuscany loop via 12 Mile Coulee Trail System offers a pleasant 5.7 km walk, while the 12 Mile Coulee Loop is a shorter 3.9 km option. Another great choice is the Egerts Park Trail loop, which is just over 2 km and perfect for a quick outing.

The dog-friendly trails around Calgary are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 out of 5 stars from 66 ratings. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the beautiful natural settings within the city, and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with their dogs.

While the immediate dog-friendly trails listed in this guide are primarily urban and coulee paths, the broader Calgary area is rich with natural beauty. You can find highlights like the Weaselhead Natural Area and the Weaselhead Flats Viewpoint, which offer scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Glenmore Reservoir also features the Glenmore Pathway, providing continuous water views.

After your hike, you can explore various attractions in Calgary. Consider a stroll across the iconic Peace Bridge, or visit Stephen Avenue Walk for its historical charm. For a relaxing break, Olympic Plaza or the Devonian Gardens (located within The CORE Shopping Centre) offer pleasant urban green spaces.

Calgary's dog-friendly trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is ideal for longer days and warmer weather, while winter provides opportunities for snowy walks, especially on well-maintained urban pathways. Always check local conditions, especially after heavy snowfall, and ensure your dog is dressed appropriately for the weather.

When hiking with your dog in Calgary's natural areas, always keep them on a leash unless in designated off-leash areas. Be mindful of wildlife, especially in parks like Fish Creek Provincial Park or Nose Hill Park, and carry waste bags to clean up after your pet. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water, especially on warmer days.

While the Canadian Rockies boast stunning glacial lakes, many have strict regulations regarding dogs, especially swimming, to protect sensitive ecosystems. Within Calgary, areas like Carburn Park Pond and Elliston Park offer pleasant settings, but always check local signage for specific rules regarding dog access and swimming before allowing your dog into the water.

For summer dog hiking in Calgary, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for both you and your dog. Consider a cooling vest for your dog on hot days. Always bring plenty of water for both of you, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and sturdy walking shoes. Insect repellent can also be useful, especially near water bodies.

Yes, for more challenging dog-friendly hikes, Kananaskis Country, just west of Calgary, offers numerous options. Trails like Rawson Lake, Galatea and Lillian Lakes, and Moose Mountain provide more significant elevation gain and longer distances. Always research specific trail regulations and conditions in Kananaskis Country before heading out, as rules for dogs can vary.