A bridge over a river with a bike path below the main bridge deck.

Pedal Your Way Through Calgary: Top Spots for a Family Bike Ride

Calgary, Alberta, is a beautiful city with plenty of outdoor spaces to explore. One of the best ways to enjoy the city’s natural beauty is by going on a family bike ride. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or just starting out, there are plenty of trails and paths suitable for all skill levels. Here are some of the best spots around Calgary for a family bike ride.

  1. Bow River Pathway: The Bow River Pathway is a scenic 48-kilometre trail that runs along the Bow River from Bearspaw Dam to Fish Creek Provincial Park. This trail is perfect for families who want to enjoy a leisurely ride with stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains.
  2. Nose Creek Pathway: The Nose Creek Pathway is a 22-kilometre trail that winds through several Calgary neighbourhoods, including Beddington Heights, Harvest Hills, and Coventry Hills. This path is perfect for families who want to explore the city’s urban landscapes while enjoying a peaceful ride.
  3. Glenmore Reservoir: The Glenmore Reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and for good reason. The reservoir offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Rocky Mountains. The bike path around the reservoir is approximately 16 kilometres long. It is perfect for families who want to enjoy a scenic ride with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the view.
  4. Fish Creek Provincial Park: Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada, and it offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including biking. The park has over 80 kilometres of trails, with a mix of paved and unpaved paths suitable for all skill levels.
  5. Elbow River Pathway: The Elbow River Pathway is a 20-kilometre trail that runs along the Elbow River from Glenmore Reservoir to Fort Calgary. This path is perfect for families who want to enjoy a leisurely ride with scenic views of the river and surrounding parks.
  6. Confederation Park: Confederation Park is a popular destination for families, with plenty of picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. The park also has a 3.2-kilometre bike path that winds through the park’s beautiful landscapes, making it an excellent spot for a family bike ride.
  7. Inglewood Bird Sanctuary: The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a tranquil nature reserve in the city’s heart. The sanctuary has several biking trails that wind through the park’s wetlands, forests, and grasslands, making it an excellent spot for families who want to enjoy a peaceful ride while bird-watching.

Calgary is a fantastic city for families who enjoy cycling. With its abundance of bike paths and trails, there is always something new to explore. From scenic riverside paths to peaceful nature reserves, there is plenty of options for families looking for a fun and active day out. So grab your bikes and hit the road – your next adventure awaits!