Nose Hill Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Nose Hill Park?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Short hikes, climbing glacial rocks and spotting deer suit school-age children, but parents must monitor off-leash dogs and cope with only pit toilets and no playground.
Positives:
- Free Entry & Parking: No fees at any lot or trailhead.
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: Paved routes at main entrances work well for strollers.
- Educational Indigenous Sites: Medicine wheel and tipi rings add cultural learning.
- Washrooms Available: Seasonal pit toilets at four locations across the park.
Challenges:
- Off-Leash Dogs: Many areas allow off-leash dogs; keep kids within sight.
- No Play Structures: The park is natural grassland with no formal playgrounds.
- Seasonal Trail Conditions: Dirt trails can be muddy in spring and icy in winter.
- Basic Facilities: Pit toilets have no changing tables or running water.
What is Nose Hill Park?
- A vast natural grassland reserve preserving native prairie and steep coulees on Calgary’s northern edge
- One of Canada’s largest urban parks covering 11 square kilometres of rolling hills and scattered glacial erratics
- A provincially recognized protected area featuring archaeological sites and indigenous heritage markers
What is so special about Nose Hill Park for with kids?
- Family-friendly paved trails ideal for strollers and toddlers
- Glacial big rocks make a fun climbing and photo spot
- Interactive Indigenous sites add cultural learning
- Scavenger hunts for wildflowers and tipi rings in season
- Shaded picnic grove near parking for easy breaks
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets a family cover paved trails, rock climbs and a picnic without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Nose Hill Park
Edgemont Paved Stroll:
Gentle paved path from Edgemont Blvd parking into the park, ideal for toddlers and strollers.
Tip: Start early to secure a parking spot and use nearby pit toilets before heading out.
Big Rocks Viewpoint Trail:
2 km loop to glacial erratics where kids can climb on large boulders and see the city.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a camera for fun family photos atop the rocks.
Medicine Wheel Discovery:
Short detour off South Nose Hill Loop to view a traditional Blackfoot medicine wheel.
Tip: Download the free IndigiTRAILS app for audio stories and AR visuals at the site.
Wildflower & Tipi Ring Scavenger Hunt:
Spot circular stone rings and colorful prairie blooms on plateau and coulee trails.
Tip: Pick up a free park brochure map at the Edgemont lot to plan your scavenger route.
Picnic Under Aspen Grove:
Shaded picnic tables near the Edgemont parking lot under a stand of aspen trees.
Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks; tables are first-come, first-served and offer wind shelter.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Nose Hill Park
- Start Early: Enjoy cooler temps and better wildlife viewing in the morning.
- Use Edgemont Lot: Closest to paved paths and washrooms for a smooth start.
- Download IndigiTRAILS: Access free audio-visual guides to Indigenous history on site.
- Bring Water: No fountains—carry refillable bottles for everyone.
Reviews of Nose Hill Park
Scott R
It's a wonderful park right on the edge of the city. No missed in sight tho. ..We absolutely loved walking the endless amount of trails and a very nice place to visit.
Micah Leganchuk
Tons of trails, beautiful colors in the fall, some hidden treasures (archaeological indigenous history)to find that are apparently 1000’s of years old, an off leash dog park(dog must stay in leash till you find the off leash area-well marked), and just a great way to get out of the city within the city.
Neerja Tiwari
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Nose Hill Park in Calgary! One must experienc this vast spa e affording a panoramic view of Calgary downtown! ! The park is one of the largest urban parks in North America, offering vast open spaces, rolling hills, and breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to have a nice wa...
Guerric Haché
I decided to pop by here to explore Calgary's nature, and Nose Hill did not disappoint! What a huge and beautiful place, with so much open space and so many trails to follow around. The views and the sense of scale are fantastic, and there's a lot of interesting biodiversity if you look closely.
Russell Reed
I enjoyed a Saturday morning walk across Nose Hill Park. Its the perfect spot for a hike or just a leisurely stroll. The trails are extensive and well maintained, there are some signboards and maps to let you know where you are, and its dog-friendly - dogs are welcome everywhere with some off-leash areas too. The park is enormous and even at the weekend it never feels busy. There's some great vie...
When is the best time to visit Nose Hill Park (Calgary, Canada)?
Spring brings wildflowers—stick to trails to protect blooms. Summer: carry plenty of water and sun hats. Fall: watch for windy gusts on the plateau. Winter: trails can be icy—add traction devices or choose lower routes.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | CAD 0 |
| Parking | CAD 0 |
| Snacks & drinks | CAD 15 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 15 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Nose Hill Park
Address: 6465 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T3K 2P6, Canada
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About Nose Hill Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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