Calgary, located in the province of Alberta, Canada, is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking wilderness in North America. The city is the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, offering vast forests, sparkling lakes, and towering mountains. For nature lovers, thrill seekers, and families, Calgary’s surroundings provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun throughout the year. From hiking in summer to skiing in winter, the region’s natural beauty is unmatched.
Exploring Calgary’s wilderness allows visitors to escape the city’s hustle and bustle while experiencing fresh air, wildlife, and remarkable scenery. Whether you prefer active adventures, relaxing scenic walks, or wildlife observation, there is something for everyone. Many of the best locations are easily accessible if you plan your trip carefully, and having your transport allows you to explore multiple sites in one day.
One of the most popular outdoor activities near Calgary is hiking. The city is surrounded by mountain trails suitable for all skill levels. For beginners, the Bow River Pathway offers gentle trails with scenic views of the river and surrounding forests. This network of paved and unpaved trails winds through Calgary and continues into nearby wilderness areas. It makes it easy for families and casual walkers to enjoy nature without venturing too far from the city.
For more experienced hikers, the Canadian Rockies provide challenging trails that lead to stunning alpine lakes, waterfalls, and mountain summits. Popular hikes include the Lake Minnewanka Loop and Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park. These trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear waters. Hiking in these areas allows you to truly immerse yourself in the wilderness, spotting wildlife such as elk, deer, and even bears in their natural habitats.
Hiking is also a great way to enjoy the changing seasons. In spring and summer, wildflowers bloom across the meadows, adding bursts of colour to the green landscape. In autumn, the trees transform into golden and red hues, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor photography. Winter hiking, when trails are less crowded, offers a quiet, peaceful experience under the snow-covered forest canopy.
Calgary’s wilderness is also a paradise for mountain biking. Trails range from easy forest paths to technical downhill tracks. Areas like Canmore Nordic Centre and Fish Creek Provincial Park are favourites among local riders. These trails weave through dense forests, open meadows, and rocky terrain, offering both adventure and beautiful scenery along the way.
Mountain biking provides a thrilling way to explore the wilderness while keeping fit. Riders can enjoy the challenge of navigating hills and rocky paths, while also taking in views of mountains, rivers, and wildlife. Many trails are family-friendly, allowing beginners and children to enjoy the outdoors safely. Renting a bike or joining a guided tour can enhance the experience, providing equipment and local knowledge of the best routes.
Calgary’s wilderness is dotted with lakes and rivers perfect for water-based activities. Canoeing and kayaking allow visitors to experience the region from a different perspective. Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake are popular spots for paddling, offering calm waters surrounded by majestic mountain views. Paddling in these lakes is both relaxing and invigorating.
You can glide across still waters, listen to the sounds of nature, and watch for wildlife such as ducks, loons, and occasionally moose. Early morning or late evening paddles often provide the most tranquil experiences, with fewer crowds and beautiful light reflecting off the water. For families, calm lakes provide a safe environment for children to try canoeing under supervision, while more adventurous paddlers can explore longer routes and hidden inlets.
Calgary’s wilderness is home to diverse wildlife, making animal watching a rewarding outdoor activity. Visitors often spot elk, deer, coyotes, foxes, and a wide variety of birds. In the Canadian Rockies, bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep are also common, though sightings require patience and caution.
Wildlife watching is best done early in the morning or late in the evening when animals are most active. Guided tours can enhance the experience, as experienced guides know the best locations and provide safety instructions. Photography enthusiasts will also find abundant opportunities to capture stunning wildlife shots. Remember to respect the animals’ space and observe them from a safe distance to ensure both your safety and theirs.
Winter transforms Calgary’s surrounding wilderness into a playground for snow sports. The Canadian Rockies offer world-class skiing and snowboarding, with resorts catering to all levels. Skiing and snowboarding in these areas are not just about the sport. You also get to enjoy breathtaking mountain views, fresh air, and pristine snow conditions.
Many resorts provide lessons for beginners, while advanced skiers can explore challenging slopes and off-piste areas. Winter also brings opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, ensuring that every visitor can enjoy the snowy landscape in their preferred way.
For those seeking a slower-paced adventure, horseback riding offers a unique way to explore Calgary’s wilderness. Trails near Canmore and Banff provide guided rides through forests, meadows, and along riverbanks. Riding through these scenic landscapes allows visitors to feel closer to nature while enjoying a peaceful, relaxing activity.
Horseback tours cater to all experience levels, from beginners to experienced riders, making it a perfect family activity. In addition to the experience itself, horseback riding offers great opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting, as horses can access areas that might be difficult to reach on foot.
Fishing is another popular activity in Calgary’s surrounding wilderness. Rivers like the Bow River and lakes such as Ghost Lake provide excellent spots for trout, pike, and other freshwater fish. Fishing can be a relaxing way to spend a day outdoors, combining patience, skill, and a love for nature.
Early mornings or late evenings often yield the best results, and the peaceful environment adds to the overall experience. Guided fishing trips are available for beginners or visitors unfamiliar with local regulations, providing equipment, expertise, and advice on the best locations and techniques.
Camping in Calgary’s wilderness allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature. Whether you prefer tent camping or staying in a rustic cabin, the experience provides a unique way to enjoy the outdoors. Popular areas like Kananaskis Country and Banff National Park offer well-maintained campsites with access to trails, lakes, and rivers.
Camping also provides excellent stargazing opportunities. Away from city lights, the night sky comes alive with stars, planets, and, occasionally, the Northern Lights. Observing the stars from a quiet wilderness campsite can be a magical experience, offering a sense of connection with nature that is difficult to find in urban areas.
Calgary’s wilderness is a photographer’s dream. Every season provides different opportunities, from colourful wildflowers in summer to snowy landscapes in winter. Nature walks allow visitors to capture unique moments, observe wildlife, and appreciate the details of the natural environment.
Whether you are a professional photographer or enjoy taking photos for memories, Calgary’s scenery offers endless inspiration. Nature walks are accessible to all ages and fitness levels, providing a relaxing way to enjoy fresh air, learn about local flora and fauna, and appreciate the beauty of the Canadian wilderness.
For more ideas on exploring Calgary, check out our Guide to a Calgary Road Trip From the Rockies to the City. It’s full of tips on planning the perfect route, must-see stops, and hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or a longer adventure, this guide can help you make the most of every moment in Calgary and its stunning surroundings.
Exploring Calgary’s wilderness is easier, safer, and more rewarding when you have your transport. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit multiple attractions, access remote locations, and create a personalized adventure. Here’s why having a rental car is a game-changer:
With a rental car you can explore Calgary and its wilderness on your terms. For more tips on making the most of your rental experience, check out Essential Car Rental Tips for International Travellers in Canada.
Calgary’s outdoors offer something unique in every season, from vibrant wildflowers in spring to snow-covered mountains in winter. Planning your trip around the seasons ensures you can fully enjoy these natural highlights safely. With a rental car, you can easily move between locations and experience the best activities each season has to offer.
Calgary’s wilderness offers something for everyone, from thrilling adventures to peaceful escapes. Hiking, skiing, canoeing, wildlife watching, and camping allow visitors to connect with nature and explore some of Canada’s most stunning landscapes. The freedom to travel at your own pace, combined with a variety of seasonal activities, ensures that every trip is unique and memorable.
Renting a car in Canada with Final Rentals amplifies this experience, giving travellers access to remote locations and the flexibility to plan their itinerary. By combining careful planning, local knowledge, and a spirit of adventure, anyone can enjoy Calgary’s wilderness to the fullest. Start your Calgary outdoor adventure today and explore all the natural beauty the region has to offer!
