Skirting the Bow River in Calgary’s northwest, Bowness Park is a popular hub for people to hang out, play games, exercise outdoors and enjoy one of Calgary’s most picturesque green spaces.
This island oasis has 74 acres of water, trees, play areas, paths and even its own restaurant — not to mention over 100-year-old history. Whether you’re a local, a life-timer or a weekend visitor, you’ll never run out of things to do here at Bowness Park, no matter the season.
Before Bowness Park Was A Park
The history of this area is actually quite fascinating. Bowness Park was established back in 1911 before World War I.
At the time, Bowness was a separate town, so land developer John Hextall created the park as a “weekend getaway” for Calgarians. Complete with swimming pools, boat rentals, a ferry service, picnic grounds, dance pavilion, midway games and a merry-go-round, some people referred to it as “Calgary’s Coney Island.”
The land was soon donated to the City of Calgary as part of a deal (learn why here) and, over time, it turned into a more natural space. While Bowness Park is no longer an amusement park, there are still many unique elements that make this park a local hotspot.
Hikes In Bowness Park
You don’t need to head out to the mountains to get out in nature. These riverside trails in Bowness Park vary in length and difficulty, and are great for all ages:
- Circle the area on this leisurely 4.3 km Bowness Park Loop that takes you around the island. Start at the main parking lot, and follow the creek to then enjoy riverside views and (hopefully) a light breeze through your hair. Share the trail year-round.
- There a few trails leading back into the south trees behind Bowness Park, like the 3.9 km Romeo & Juliet Trail, as well as Upper Wood’s Home Trail (Jeal Nature Trail) and Lower Wood’s Home Trail (Douglas Fir Sanctuary). The latter two can be found starting off 48 Avenue NW.
For a longer jaunt, hop over the river to check out the stunning riverside Baker Park for a 5.5km loop. Start in Bowness Park, then walk west to cross the pedestrian bridge under Stoney Trail. Follow the river pathway through Baker Park before crossing the 85th Street bridge to circle back. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue part way through Bowmont Park and take the pedestrian bridge back instead of 85th.
Want to go even future? The Bow River Pathway spans 48 kilometres, all the way from Bearspaw Dam to Fish Creek Provincial Park. Connecting major parks and green spaces here in Calgary, this multi-use trail is great for walking, running, biking, rollerblading, scootering, you name it.
Where To Eat In (Or Near) Bowness Park
Trust us — you’ll want to hang out here for awhile, so having a food plan will help you make the most of your day!
- Pack your own picnic. Bring a blanket and/or chairs to snag a spot anywhere, or rent a picnic table or covered pavilion in advance to guarantee your spot (link to do so below).
- Enjoy the view at Seasons of Bowness from their patio or dining room. Perched on the lagoon’s shore, this upscale but laidback restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, whether you want a drink or a full 3-courses. Don’t have time to sit down? Their market next door is stocked with grab-and-go drinks and snacks so you can keep adventuring.
- Grab takeout at Angel’s Drive-In on your way in or out of Bowness Park. Known for classic burgers, shakes and other fast food, this historic hotspot located just outside of the park serves up eats in a playful 1950s style.
What To Do In Bowness Park During The Summer
This may be one of Calgary’s most bustling parks once the sun starts shining. Here are just some of the things you and your crew can do at Bowness Park this summer.
- Relax at a picnic site and/or shelter. There are tons of picnic tables and benches scattered around the park for you to hang out and use. If you have a larger group or you want to guarantee your spot, book in advance here.
- Paddle the Bowness Lagoon. Visit the Boathouse in Bowness Park to rent pedal boats, canoes or kayaks to take out on the water. Find hours of operation and rental prices here.
- Enjoy the river views. Running along on the park’s north side, the Bow River is generally flowing too fast for safe swimming, but it offers beautiful views.
- Pop across the river to picnic, play disc golf, and take in the view at Baker Park using bridges located at either end of Bowness Park. You’ll pass the Baker Park boat launch, which is where river adventures with Lazy Day Raft Rentals kick off.
- Ride the mini train. A favourite activity for visiting kids and families, this short train ride starts at the boathouse and weaves throughout Bowness Park. Train tickets are $5 each or $10 for a family, and can’t be booked in advance.
- Cool off in the wading pool. On the east side of Bowness Park, you’ll find a seasonal wading pool, open daily from June to September from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Bring your kids here to cool off in the summer heat.
- Play at the large playground. As if this park wasn’t already a kids’ jungle gym, there is a large playground suitable for all ages, and also includes accessibility features.
- Take your dog for a walk. While there is no off-leash area in Bowness Park, this scenic oasis tends to be a hotspot for dogs of all sizes to enjoy with their owners.
What To Do In Bowness Park Year-Round
While this lively hangout attracts people all year long, it does tend to be quieter in non-summer months. During the winter, you can go ice skating, play crokicurl, warm up by the fire, or enjoy the Christmas lights strewn throughout the park.
It’s also one of our favourite places in Calgary to watch the seasons change. In the spring, the trees and grass turn green early, and you might even catch an eager beaver floating down the river.
In the fall, watching the leaves change and slowly coat the multi-coloured ground is incredible. Catch these views from in the park itself, across the river in Baker Park, or even as you zip by on Stoney Trail above.
Want More Summer Activity Ideas?
Check out our blog: Best 25 Outdoor Activities To Do In Calgary This Summer.
Better yet, download our Fun In The Summer Sun YYC Activities Guide to get outside and explore city-wide.
Don’t miss our Summer Road Trip Guide, packed with day trips, weekend getaways and obscure sites (the latter of which are only found in Alberta).
Need More Calgary Parks Info?
Use our YYC Adventure Atlas for everything you need to know about Bowness Park and green spaces here in Calgary.
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