Weaselhead Flats
A vast 585.6-acre natural environment park in Calgary, featuring spruce forests, wetlands, and diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Birdsong and blooming nature
Weaselhead Flats
Best Time
Birdsong and blooming nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast 585.6-acre natural environment park in Calgary, featuring spruce forests, wetlands, and diverse wildlife.
"It's one of my favorite places to walk/run/bike. Great trails some wildlife."
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails vary from paved to natural; good footwear is key for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Pack bug spray
Especially near water in warmer months, mosquitoes can be present. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oxbow Lakes & Wetlands
Various locations throughout the park
Discover serene oxbow lakes and expansive wetlands, teeming with birdlife and offering stunning reflections.
River Valley Trails
Along the Elbow River
Explore scenic trails that wind alongside the Elbow River, perfect for walking, running, or biking.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the park
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and other fascinating creatures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Within the City
Best Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails vary from paved to natural; good footwear is key for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Pack bug spray
Especially near water in warmer months, mosquitoes can be present. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Leash your dog
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed to protect wildlife and other visitors. :dog:
Explore off the main path
Discover quieter, natural trails away from the busy bike paths for a more immersive experience. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails vary from paved to natural; good footwear is key for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Pack bug spray
Especially near water in warmer months, mosquitoes can be present. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Leash your dog
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed to protect wildlife and other visitors. :dog:
Explore off the main path
Discover quieter, natural trails away from the busy bike paths for a more immersive experience. :hiking_boot:
Visit for sunrise/sunset
The park offers beautiful light for photography and a peaceful atmosphere. :sunriseovermountains:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Weaselhead Flats is lauded as a beautiful, expansive green space within Calgary, offering a genuine escape into nature. Visitors praise its diverse trails, clean river, and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for walking, running, and biking. It's a cherished spot for its immersive natural feel and scenic beauty.
"Beautiful green space here in the city of Calgary. Nice off the main path trails which are nice to get off the busy bike path. The river is beautiful and clean. Great spot for pretty much any outdoor activity!"
Ben Bronsema
"It's one of my favorite places to walk/run/bike.
Great trails some wildlife.
You can start at weaslehead and do the loop it's about 16km , walking ittook my 2½ hours non-stop. Biking with a couple of stops took 1½ hours."
katy
"It is my favorite park in Calgary. It's a really huge piece of forest full of birds, animals, and other wildlife inhabitants. Despite the past history of this territory (it was an old military area), it's a truly unique place with fascinating landscapes views towards the river. You can use main trails with hard cover goods for bicycles or choose small paths. Each visit here is a special story, that's why I so love this park."
Artemii Plekhanov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Weaselhead Flats is a short drive from downtown Calgary, often described as a 'hidden gem' and a 'short drive from Calgary, Alberta'.
You can access it via various routes, often linked with North Glenmore Park or South Glenmore Park. Public transport options might involve bus routes that get you close, followed by a walk.Yes, there are parking areas available, particularly near the entrances and trailheads. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up due to its popularity as a natural escape within the city.
Absolutely! Weaselhead Flats is a popular spot for biking, with both paved and unpaved trails. The loop around the reservoir is approximately 16km and can be biked in about 1.5 hours.
While direct public transport to the heart of Weaselhead Flats might be limited, you can take buses to nearby areas like Glenmore Park and then walk or bike into the natural area. Check Calgary Transit for the most up-to-date routes.
Popular entry points include areas near North Glenmore Park and South Glenmore Park. These offer access to the main trail systems and amenities. Some visitors also access it from the east side near Forest Lawn.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Weaselhead Flats Natural Environment Park is a public space and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to explore and enjoy the natural beauty.
Weaselhead Flats is generally open from dawn until dusk. As a natural environment park, it doesn't have strict closing hours like a developed facility, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
Generally, no special permits are required for casual bird watching or photography. However, for organized events or commercial activities, you may need to contact the City of Calgary Parks department.
Yes, Weaselhead Flats is open year-round. Each season offers a different experience, from spring blooms and summer greenery to vibrant fall colors and winter snowscapes.
While the park is a natural environment, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety reasons. Some organized events, like bat walks, may occur after dark.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a mix of paved multi-use pathways, ideal for cycling and easy walking, and unpaved natural trails that wind through the forest and along the river. Some natural trails can be rougher and more secluded.
Weaselhead Flats is known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, various bird species (making it great for birdwatching), and potentially smaller mammals. It's a 'huge piece of forest full of birds, animals, and other wildlife inhabitants'.
Yes, it's a fantastic place for hiking. The loop around the reservoir is about 16km and takes around 2.5 hours to walk non-stop.
You can choose longer routes or shorter explorations depending on your preference.Restroom facilities may be limited within the natural area itself. It's advisable to check for facilities near the main park entrances or plan accordingly. Some visitors suggest using facilities in adjacent parks like Glenmore Park.
Swimming is generally not recommended in the Elbow River or the oxbow lakes due to currents, water quality, and wildlife. The park is best enjoyed for walking, biking, and observing nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbanks offer beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The wetlands are also picturesque, and the dense forest provides opportunities for capturing light filtering through trees. Keep an eye out for wildlife subjects.Yes, the varied terrain, including the river, wetlands, and forest, provides diverse landscape photography opportunities. The 'moody sky' and 'reflection' shots are popular.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer the best light for photography, creating golden hues and dramatic shadows.
Midday can be harsh but still offers opportunities for wildlife shots.Look for reflections in the water, diverse bird species, deer, and the interplay of light and shadow within the forest. The bridges and river bends also make for interesting compositions.
Drone usage in City of Calgary parks is subject to regulations. It's essential to check the City of Calgary's bylaws regarding drone operation in natural areas to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for wildlife, listen to bird songs, and explore the different textures of the forest. The paved paths are great for strollers or young cyclists, while the natural trails offer a sense of discovery. Remember to pack snacks, water, and bug spray, and keep a close eye on children, especially near the water and on more rugged trails.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
Beyond the main loop, the natural trails offer a more varied and challenging terrain. These paths wind through the forest and along the river, providing a beautiful and stimulating route. Runners and walkers can enjoy the changing scenery and the sounds of nature, making it a refreshing alternative to urban routes. It's a great place to 'walk/run/bike' and enjoy the scenery.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be mindful of the trail conditions, especially after rain, as some natural paths can become muddy. Always carry waste bags to clean up after your dog. The variety of trails means you can choose a route that suits your dog's energy level and your desired walk length.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Weaselhead Flats
For the more adventurous, a plethora of unpaved, natural trails branch off from the main paths. These trails wind through the dense spruce forest, skirt the edges of oxbow lakes, and follow the Elbow River. They offer a more immersive nature experience, with opportunities to get closer to the flora and fauna. Redditors often recommend venturing off the main paths to 'get off the busy bike path' and discover quieter spots.
When planning your hike, consider the full loop around the reservoir, which is approximately 16km and can take about 2.5 hours to walk. Biking this loop is faster, taking around 1.5 hours with stops. Always wear appropriate footwear, as some natural trails can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
The park's natural environment is crucial for conservation efforts. For instance, the Alberta Community Bat Program hosts bat walks here, highlighting the importance of nocturnal wildlife and their habitats. This underscores the park's role not just as a recreational space but as a critical ecological corridor within Calgary.
When exploring, remember that you are a visitor in the animals' home. Maintain a safe distance, never feed the wildlife, and always keep dogs on a leash to minimize disturbance and ensure the safety of both animals and pets. Respecting the natural inhabitants is key to preserving this urban wilderness.
Photography Opportunities
Photographers can find compelling subjects along the riverbanks, where reflections are often stunning, and in the wetlands, which are teeming with birdlife. The park's natural trails also offer intimate forest scenes. Many visitors enjoy capturing the 'moody sky' and the serene atmosphere of the park.
For the best photographic results, aim for early mornings or late afternoons when the light is soft and warm. Be prepared for varied terrain and potentially muddy conditions, especially near water. Always be mindful of wildlife and maintain a respectful distance when photographing animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit