It’s no secret that fall in Calgary is short-lived but absolutely stunning while it lasts. If you’re anything like us, you’ll want to take full advantage of this fleeting season by heading out to see some of the city’s best fall foliage. Whether you're looking for a peaceful solo stroll or a cozy autumn date, these spots are sure to give you those perfect fall vibes.
Olympic Plaza
Right in the middle of downtown, Olympic Plaza is a great spot to catch a glimpse of fall while staying close to the city. The trees lining the area change into beautiful shades of gold, making it a great stop for a quick walk or lunch break to take in the crisp autumn air.
Fish Creek Park – Marshall Springs, Bannister Road, or Shannon Terrace
For an outdoor escape without leaving the city, Fish Creek Park is a fall treasure. Stretching across south Calgary, the entire park transforms with the season.
Marshall Springs: Perfect for a peaceful hike, this area offers trails with great views of trees that seem to glow in golden hues.
Bannister Road: Ideal for a laid-back walk to enjoy the colours without too much effort. The earthy scents of fall will definitely have you in the autumn mood.
Shannon Terrace: If you prefer to be close to the creek, head here to admire the contrasting bright yellow leaves mixed with deep green evergreens.
Elbow Park
One of Calgary’s most picturesque neighbourhoods, Elbow Park is perfect for those quiet walks when you want to escape the noise of the city.
With the Elbow River running through it, the tree-lined pathways make this a dreamy spot to soak in all the fall beauty. It’s also a great place for family outings or date strolls.
Edworthy Park
Is a fall gem with amazing skyline views of downtown Calgary. The vibrant colours will take your breath away. It’s a fantastic place to wander through the Douglas Fir Trail and Lawrey Gardens, especially if you’re into photography or simply want to bask in the beauty of fall. Plus, with picnic sites, off-leash areas, and public washrooms, it’s a great spot for an autumn day out.
Shouldice Park
Shouldice Park offers beautiful riverside paths framed by changing leaves. Whether you’re looking for a casual walk by the river or a picnic in the park, this is a fantastic location for soaking up autumn’s beauty.
Bow River Pathway
If you’re looking for that perfect blend of city and nature, the Bow River Pathway is a must.
Running along the river, you’ll be treated to golden trees with the Calgary skyline in the background. Whether you’re cycling, walking, or jogging, this is a great spot to catch some fall colours while enjoying the river’s calming flow.
Bowness Park
For family-friendly fun in the fall, Bowness Park is a must-visit. The towering trees and serene pond reflect the fiery hues of autumn. Whether you’re renting a canoe, taking a leisurely walk, or snapping photos, Bowness Park is one of the best places to enjoy fall with loved ones.
Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach, nestled along the Elbow River, offers beautiful views of the river reflecting the fall trees. It’s peaceful and makes for a great spot to wander and take in the season’s changing colours. Bring a blanket for a picnic by the water, or take a short walk up to Britannia Plaza for ice cream or coffee after your walk.
Mount Royal
Tucked away from the hustle of the nearby streets, Mount Royal feels like a serene retreat. The streets are lined with towering trees that explode with rich autumn tones, making it the perfect spot for a quiet fall walk. It’s a hidden gem close to the city’s heart, ideal for those who want to avoid crowds.
Prince’s Island Park
You can’t talk about fall in Calgary without mentioning Prince’s Island Park. The park is a go-to for anyone wanting to experience fall colours without leaving downtown. The trees here turn a vibrant gold, and the pathways winding through the island make it easy to explore the park’s beauty. Whether you’re walking or relaxing on a bench, it’s the perfect spot to watch the city shift into fall.
Mission
In the heart of the city, Mission comes alive with the warmth of fall. The tree-lined streets here feel like something out of a movie—perfect for a stroll, coffee in hand, while leaves gently fall around you. It’s also the perfect area to stop by some cozy cafés for a seasonal treat.
Confederation Park
Tucked away in the north, Confederation Park is a quieter spot to catch Calgary’s fall colours. The park’s wide-open spaces and towering trees make it a perfect place for a peaceful walk or a family picnic. The iconic bridge over the creek framed by golden leaves is a sight not to be missed!
Fall in Calgary is SUPER SPECIAL
Fall in Calgary is fleeting, which is part of what makes it so magical. One day the leaves are brilliant gold, and the next, they’re gone with the wind. It’s that urgency to get outside, breathe in the crisp air, and take in the beauty while it’s still here that makes the season so special.
So grab a warm drink, throw on a cozy sweater, and head out to explore these stunning fall spots around Calgary before the snow starts to settle in. 🍁
Where’s your go-to spot to see the fall colours? Let us know in the comments!
Such a great guide for the fall colors will definitely go on a walk though these places. This weekend