Spring in Calgary is an adventure in itself. One minute, you’re lounging in the warm sun, and the next, you’re caught in a surprise snowstorm. So yes, you can expect melting snow, longer days, trees budding and green grass poking through…
But spring in Calgary also means unpredictable weather can turn your outdoor plans upside down. Snow, sleet, sunshine, showers and slush are all totally normal this time of year, making it tough to know what to do, where to go and what to wear.
So if you want to make the most of your spring adventures in and around Calgary, a little planning can go a long way. To take full advantage of the season when Calgary starts to come alive again, here are our top 5 tips to prepare you for anything spring throws your way!
1. Layers, Layer, Layers
Since you never know what Mother Nature is planning (especially in the mountains), pack for all weather possibilities. Mornings can feel like winter, leading to summery afternoons, followed by chilly evenings.
So we bring multiple layers to stay comfortable throughout the day:
- Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin — something like merino wool or a breathable material.
- Add a light insulated jacket for warmth — we have a few Helly Hanson jackets, either synthetic or a light down.
- Top it off with a waterproof and windproof shell to block surprise changes in the weather — this will save your down-filled jacket if you bring one.
- It never hurts to pack gloves and toque — they take up minimal space but can make all the difference when the temperature drops.
- Sometimes we even throw in a pair of shorts, so we can stay warm with longer pants in the morning, and change to a cooler option come afternoon.
2. Check Conditions Before You Go
Trail, park and road conditions are important to check year-round, but especially in the springtime. Because melting snow means a combination of icy, muddy, or dry conditions — so be prepared to get dirty!
Knowing the conditions before you head out can save you (and your gear) from surprises:
- Some trails may still be icy in shaded areas, while others are muddy or even closed for maintenance.
- Perfect example: Spots along the Bow River Pathway from Edworthy Park to the Crowchild Bridge take more time to melt due to thick tree coverage and run-off.
- Warm and cold snaps can dramatically change conditions overnight – always check trail or road reports before you head out of the city.
- Certain roads close during the winter, as they’re not safe to travel on. Check updated road reports here to see when they reopen in the spring (like Highway 40 near Peter Lougheed and Highway 66 past Bragg Creek)
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3. Bring Proper Footwear
Yep, your shoes might need to handle snow, ice, mud, and soggy grass all in one trip, especially if you’re headed to the mountains. Here’s what we recommend:
- Waterproof hiking boots with good traction — we personally use Scarpa and Merrells.
- Microspikes or trail crampons if you’re heading to higher elevations or treed trails where ice may linger. If you want extra stability, bring hiking poles too.
- Extra socks in case your feet get wet, or you don’t have waterproof boots.
- An extra pair of shoes or sandals to change in to after your adventure if you want to let your feet breathe on the drive home!
4. Choose The Right Time Of Day
After checking the forecast, think about what time of day makes sense for your adventure. Trails and conditions can change drastically throughout a spring day, so here’s our quick guide:
- Mornings: Trails are often frozen and firm (especially in the mountains), which is great for avoiding mud, but they can be slippery.
- Midday: As the sun softens things up, this is typically the best spring hiking conditions, and when we choose to start.
- Afternoons: As the temperature rises and more snow melts, trails can turn into a slushy, muddy mess. So be prepared!
- Evenings: Once the cooler air sets in again, expect trails to firm up, and perhaps get icy as the new melt from today freezes again.
So before you head out, plan accordingly based on the temperature and trail conditions.
5. Keep Your Eyes Peeled For Increased Wildlife Activity
Spring in and around Calgary means more than just changing landscapes—it also signals to our local wildlife that it’s time to wake up or start exploring again. Bears emerge from hibernation, deer and elk become more active, migratory birds return home, and smaller critters are out and about.
When you’re exploring the great outdoors…
- Carry bear spray when you’re in bear territory, and know how to use it.
- Make noise when you’re hiking to avoid surprising nearby animals.
- Stick to marked trails and respect wildlife from a safe distance.
Curious what birds you might see? Here are 12 common birds you may spot in and around Calgary.
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Sure spring in Calgary can be unpredictable, but with the right prep and planning, it’s also one of the most rewarding times to explore as nature comes alive again.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or walking Calgary parks and nearby mountain trails, knowing what to expect can elevate your spring adventures, and help you make the most of your time outdoors.
That’s why we’re personally exploring a new trail every single week, and sharing ALL the details with you in the Outdoor Insider — so you can spend less time scrolling, and more time strolling.
Get weekly updates, trail reports, and personal recommendations here.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and enjoy the beautiful transition into spring here in Calgary.
