Bow River Pathway to Carburn Pond Park loop — Sue Higgins Park

Hiking trails & Routes

Canada

Alberta

Calgary

Bow River Pathway to Carburn Pond Park loop — Sue Higgins Park

Moderate

3.0

(1)

hikers

Bow River Pathway to Carburn Pond Park loop — Sue Higgins Park

02:44

10.7km

40m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: November 5, 2025

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

609 m

Bow River Pathway

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The Bow River Pathway is a well-maintained multi-use trail that goes through Calgary, connecting parks, bridges, and viewpoints along the way. It follows the Bow River and offers constant water views with the city skyline or the Rockies in the background. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for a quieter ride or walk.

Tip by

4.03 km

Bow River

Highlight • River

The Bow River runs clear and fast through Calgary, cutting a wide path between forested banks and city parkland. Known for its turquoise colour and strong current, it’s one of Alberta’s most recognizable rivers. Trails line much of its length within the city, offering easy access for hiking or cycling with frequent views of the skyline, bridges, and nearby wildlife along the water’s edge.

Tip by

5.11 km

Carburn Park

Highlight • Natural

Carburn Park is one of Calgary’s best riverside areas for an easy urban hike. The trails wind through cottonwood forest and around two ponds, with frequent views of the Bow River along the way. The terrain is flat and well-marked, making it ideal for a relaxed walk or a quick break in nature. You’ll often see ducks, geese, and beavers, and the mix of trees, meadows, and calm water gives the park a peaceful feel just minutes from the city.

Tip by

5.50 km

Carburn Park Pond

Highlight • Lake

Carburn Park Pond is the highlight of the trails here, with calm, mirror-like water surrounded by trees and open sky. As you hike the loop around it, you’ll pass easy gravel paths and plenty of wildlife—ducks, geese, and the occasional beaver working near the shoreline. It’s not a long hike, but the pond’s peaceful setting makes it a great stop to linger, especially when the light hits the water in the early morning or evening.

Tip by

5.77 km

Bow River

Highlight • River

The Bow River runs through the heart of Calgary, offering some of the city’s best trails for walking and hiking. The paths follow the river’s edge for long stretches, with views of forested banks, bridges, and open water. It’s a steady, scenic route that feels natural yet stays close to the city, making it a great choice for an easy hike or a longer day on the trail.

Tip by

10.7 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

9.29 km

1.37 km

Surfaces

6.82 km

1.34 km

1.30 km