Nose Hill Park
Nose Hill Park is a vast natural environment park situated in northwest Calgary, covering approximately 1 129 hectares. It offers an extensive network of hiking trails, off-leash areas, and restroom facilities, making it a versatile outdoor destination for walking, running and nature observation. The park preserves one of the largest remaining rough fescue grasslands on the Canadian prairies, a globally threatened ecosystem, and supports diverse wildlife—from deer, coyotes and porcupines to numerous small mammals and birds of prey.
Beyond its ecological significance, Nose Hill Park is rich in cultural and historical features, including tipi rings, stone cairns and Indigenous ceremonial sites—evidence of centuries of use by First Nations. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Calgary’s skyline, the Rocky Mountains, and the Bow River valley, adding scenic value to its natural and cultural appeal.
Since its designation as a municipal park in 1980, Nose Hill Park has remained open year-round and is managed by the City of Calgary. The park emerged from decades of local advocacy, including citizen petitions, community marches and strategic land purchases, culminating in protection by both municipal and provincial governments.
A notable modern feature is the “Echoes of the Past” experience—an augmented reality (AR) trail powered by the Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth’s IndigiTRAILS app. It immerses visitors in Indigenous stories at selected park locations.
Overall, Nose Hill Park offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, wildlife observation, recreation, and thoughtful interpretation—making it a valuable urban green space that appeals to a wide range of visitors.