The Urban Wild Calgary Nature Loop Private Tour
Active
6h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this day tour of Alberta's biggest city, we escape downtown to explore the "Nature Loop": a series of hand-picked stops that showcase the harmony between our modern skyline and the rugged Alberta landscape.
This tour features a series of short walks, looping through the parks, river valleys and prairie vantages that make Calgary a bustling, world-class outdoor city.
Route and timings can be adjusted to match your group’s specific preferences. With door-to-door transport included, this is your day to soak up the best of Calgary and see why it is one of the fastest growing cities on the continent.
- Activity Level: Easy to Moderate.
- Field lunch and refreshments included.
Available options
The Urban Wild Calgary Nature Loop Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private, door-to-door transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
Field lunch and refreshments including drinking water refills
Parking
Hiking poles and microspikes/ice cleats (if winter conditions)
Local, certified guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin with an iconic skyline vista from the Crescent Heights Lookout and McHugh Bluff, capturing the Bow River, downtown core, and distant Rockies to set the scene for the day.
2
Access the park via the McHugh Bluff stairs to explore a forested urban oasis, where pathways and bridges wind through the heart of the city along the Bow River.
3
Experience the massive scale of this natural highland - one of North America's largest urban parks. We'll walk through wild grasslands that offer 360-degree views of the city, mountains on the horizon, and airport off in the distance below. We'll keep an eye open for wildlife, with deer and coyote sightings common.
4
Walk through the city’s only delta ecosystem to discover a hidden wilderness of spruce forests and oxbow wetlands, where you can spot diverse wildlife along the shores of the Glenmore Reservoir.
5
Next we'll head to one of our favourite sections of the sprawling Bow River Pathway in the southeast of the city. We'll walk up a short incline to a spectacular vantage point of city, mountains and river park below. Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of Canada’s largest urban parks, a natural corridor known for its diverse birdlife and quiet canyon landscapes.
6
On our way back to the city proper, we'll stop at Carburn Park for one of Calgary's best examples of city-meets-nature. Complete with lagoons, riverside trails, forest, wildlife, and its own "donut" ice rink and fire pits in winter, this is a year-round hit with the locals.
7
One final skyline view from this historic ridge in the community of Ramsay. This elevated vantage point, which served as the original grandstand for the first Calgary Stampede, offers prime views of the river valley below, city front and centre, and the Rocky Mountains on the horizon.
What's not included
Participant travel insurance
Personal expenses (such as souvenirs or gifts), and any additional snacks, meals, or beverages
Any applicable pet fees
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
ES
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Clothing & Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots/walking shoes (insulated for winter) and adaptable layers (avoid cotton). Check weather conditions before departure.
Personal Gear: Please bring a small daypack, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle (refills provided).
Technical Gear: We provide hiking poles and microspikes/ice cleats if needed. USB-A charging ports are available in the van—please bring your own cable.
Child Seats: required by law for under 6yrs (≤18kg). Not provided; please bring your own if needed.
Waiver: required for all guests before departure.
Changes/Cancellations: please contact us to discuss.
About Calgary
Calgary, known as the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends urban energy with stunning natural beauty. It's famous for its annual Calgary Stampede, a world-renowned rodeo and festival, and offers easy access to the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies.
Top Attractions
Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is the greatest outdoor show on earth, featuring rodeos, chuckwagon races, live music, and much more. It's a must-visit event held annually in July.
Cultural
10 days
Free entry to the grounds, tickets required for some events
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Free entry with a Parks Canada pass
Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. It's a great place to learn about Calgary's history and enjoy a meal with a view.
Architecture
1-2 hours
$19 CAD for adults, $10 CAD for children
Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park is Canada's largest living history museum, showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Visitors can explore historic buildings, ride vintage trains, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Historical
3-4 hours
$29.95 CAD for adults, $17.95 CAD for children
Prince's Island Park
Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of Calgary. It's a great place for picnics, walks, and outdoor concerts. The park is also home to the Calgary Folk Music Festival and other events.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Beef Brisket
Slow-cooked, tender beef brisket is a Calgary staple, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan
Bison Burger
A delicious and lean alternative to beef, bison burgers are a popular choice in Calgary.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan
Butter Chicken
A beloved Indian dish, butter chicken is a creamy, spicy curry made with tender chicken pieces.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan, contains dairy
Caesar Cocktail
A Canadian classic, the Caesar cocktail is a spicy, savory drink made with vodka, Clamato juice, and various seasonings.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Picnicking in parks
Yoga and meditation
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Calgary for warm weather and outdoor activities. It's also when the Calgary Stampede takes place, a major event not to be missed.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Punjabi, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
GMT-7 (Mountain Time Zone)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Calgary is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Calgary International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Calgary Station
By bus
Calgary Transit Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The CTrain is efficient, frequent, and a popular way to get around Calgary. It's free to ride downtown.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Beltline
Kensington
Innisfail
Day trips
Banff National Park
130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight
Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Canmore
100 km (62 miles) • Half day or full day
Canmore is a charming mountain town located near Banff National Park, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning scenery.
Drumheller
135 km (84 miles) • Full day
Drumheller is a town in the Canadian Badlands, known for its unique geological features, dinosaur fossils, and the famous Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Festivals
Calgary Stampede • July
Calgary Folk Music Festival • Early July
Calgary International Film Festival • Mid-September
Pro tips
- Visit during the Calgary Stampede for a unique and unforgettable experience, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
- Explore the city's extensive park system, including Prince's Island Park and the Bow River Pathway, for a taste of Calgary's natural beauty.
- Take advantage of the city's excellent public transit system, including the CTrain and buses, to get around easily and affordably.
- Try local specialties, such as beef brisket and bison burgers, and don't miss out on the city's thriving coffee and craft beer scenes.
- Dress in layers, as the weather in Calgary can change quickly, especially in the spring and fall.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
