Nose Hill Park is Calgary’s hidden green gem! Take a hike along its winding trails and be rewarded with panoramic city views and chances to spot deer in the wild. Spring brings blooming flowers, autumn paints the trees in fiery hues—each season tells its own story. Perfect for recharging your soul in nature’s embrace.




















Everything you need to know about Nose Hill Park
The Westin Calgary is a top choice, just a 15-minute drive from Nose Hill Park, offering family-friendly amenities including an indoor pool and kids’ activities. Its central location near Downtown Calgary makes access to park trails convenient. With modern design and spacious rooms, it’s ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience.
The park features multiple eco-friendly hiking trails and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Rocky Mountains. Early morning visits are recommended to enjoy peaceful nature walks, wildlife spotting, and panoramic mountain vistas without crowds.
From hotels like The Westin Calgary or Holiday Inn Calgary, head south on Bowness Road for about 8 minutes to reach the main entrance—Bowness Road Trailhead. Clear signage and ample free parking are available. Some hotels offer shuttle services directly to the park entrance, saving time and effort.
Once inside, follow the Crescent Path, a 3-km loop trail with gentle terrain suitable for all ages. Along the way, you’ll spot native wildlife and flora, plus interpretive signs explaining local ecology and history—perfect for an educational and enjoyable hike.
Nose Hill Park offers unique experiences like spring birdwatching tours, held from April to June, where expert guides lead visitors through grassland wetlands to spot over 80 species of migratory birds, including hawks, kingfishers, and ducks. The on-site Nature Education Centre hosts interactive exhibits and night sky observation sessions using telescopes to view the Milky Way core and meteor showers.
In summer, join Indigenous cultural workshops to learn traditional herbal knowledge and crafts. These immersive programs deepen understanding of the Canadian prairie ecosystem while promoting conservation awareness—ideal for eco-conscious travelers seeking meaningful outdoor engagement.
Yes, hotels near Nose Hill Park offer excellent connectivity. The Westin Calgary and Holiday Inn Calgary are located along Bowness Road, just 10 minutes from downtown, with easy access to Calgary Transit bus stops—take Route 201 directly to the park entrance.
The park also features dedicated bike lanes and e-scooter rental stations, supporting low-carbon travel. For walkers, the northern trailhead connects to the Bow River Pathway, allowing a scenic ride into downtown. All hotels provide free parking and smart navigation tools, ensuring seamless planning from accommodation to exploration.
The Calgary Marriott Hotel is ideal, just a 10-minute drive from Nose Hill Park, offering spacious rooms, free parking, and an indoor pool. It’s perfect for travelers exploring trails like Lions' Gate Trail and Nose Hill Trail, providing easy access to Calgary’s urban green space. The hotel also features family-friendly dining options nearby, making it a great base for nature lovers seeking both comfort and outdoor adventure in a scenic, low-impact environment.
From downtown Calgary, drive approximately 15 minutes via Bowness Road—well-maintained and convenient. For public transit, take the CTrain to Crescent Heights Station, then transfer to Route 302 bus, which takes about 25 minutes. The park offers ample parking, and several trailheads are close to transit stops, ensuring excellent accessibility. With dedicated bike lanes and walking paths, Nose Hill Park is a seamless blend of urban connectivity and natural tranquility, ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
Must-do activities include hiking the Nose Hill Trail for panoramic views of the Bow River Valley, spotting native wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and birds, and joining guided ecotours that explore the prairie ecosystem. Families can visit the on-site children’s nature learning zone. During summer, attend stargazing events—the park’s low light pollution makes it one of Calgary’s top spots for night sky viewing. These experiences highlight the park’s role as a living classroom and sanctuary within the city.
Yes, Holiday Inn Calgary Airport is highly recommended—just 12 minutes away with family suites, a kids’ playroom, indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It offers airport shuttle service and safe, walkable access to nearby parks and trails. The hotel hosts regular family workshops on nature crafts and plant identification, blending education with fun. Its child-centered amenities and proximity to green spaces make it a top choice for family getaways seeking comfort and connection with nature.
Nose Hill Park does not have official campgrounds, but legal backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas with prior permit approval. Ideal spots include open grasslands near Bowness Park or McCall Creek Trail, following Leave No Trace principles. Note: no electricity or restroom facilities are available. Bring warm layers and insect protection, as nights can be chilly. This remote experience offers true solitude and unspoiled night skies—perfect for adventurers seeking a quiet, authentic wilderness escape.
The optimal season is late spring to early fall (May to September), when temperatures are mild, trails are dry and accessible, and wildflowers bloom. Spring brings vibrant colors, summer offers abundant wildlife sightings, and autumn displays rich foliage. Winter visits are possible but limited due to icy paths and reduced accessibility. For the best balance of weather, scenery, and activity options, plan your trip between May and August—ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying the park’s serene, untouched beauty.
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