Calgary
Along the Bow River
Bow River Pathway - The Bow River pathway runs along both sides of the river. For a short loop, walk from Eau Claire through Prince's Island and back on the south side of the river. For a longer loop, head west along the north side, and loop back over one of the many bridges. Keep your eyes peeled for beavers (they build their lodges on the banks of the river).
Tip: Pick up a copy of the Calgary Pathway and Bikeway Map, available from any Co-op grocery store, or the Outdoor Resource Centre on the river pathway.
Prince's Island Park - This park is a peaceful island oasis in the center of the bustling city and where the city's major festivals are held. The park is named for Peter Anthony Prince who came to Calgary in 1886 and founded the Eau Claire Lumber Mill.
Prince's Island Park is an excellent spot for a summer picnic, followed by some fun at the large kid's playground, or a walk around the ponds at the eastern end of the park. In July, come here for the Folk Festival (great for kids), and Shakespeare in the Park, July and August.
To get to the park, there are two pedestrian bridges from the Bow River pathway to the south. Or from Memorial Dr. to the north, there's a footbridge at the curling rink. No cars are allowed on the island.
Eau Claire - Just over the bridge from the island, you'll find an outdoor wading pool for the warm weather, coffee shops and casual eateries. For a treat, reserve a table for lunch at the River Cafe (restaurant is kid-friendly, closed in January).Calgary Zoo - The Calgary Zoo, situated on an island in the Bow River, is a "must see." Check out the Prehistoric Park, which recreates a typical Alberta landscape when the dinosaurs roamed the region. Wander through the sandstone hoodoos and discover the life-sized dinosaurs, including Albertosaurus, a relative of T-Rex. Another unique exhibit is the Canadian Wilds section, where you can get a close up view of the local wildlife, including wolves, moose, bison and bears. The grizzly bear named Skoki was captured and relocated to the zoo after wandering into a bakery in Lake Louise! The zoo has an ongoing program of special events, including a regular Safari Sunday Brunch and behind the scenes aimed at both adults and children.
To get to the zoo, it's about a 30 minute walk along the river pathway from downtown, or a short ride on the C-Train (McKnight/Westwinds North-East line).
Fort Calgary Historic Park - In 1875, the North West Mounted Police built a fort at junction of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, and here the city began. In this open-air museum, kids can check out a re-created log fort and other vintage buildings, try on a Mounted Police uniform, and sit in a jail cell. Open year round.
