Calgary’s location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains offers a unique opportunity for some great scenic lookouts. Whether it’s rolling farmlands to the east or majestic mountains to the west, Calgary has the scenic lookout you are craving. Not to mention, there are some pretty spectacular city views right in the middle. Explore 17 of our favourite Calgary lookouts. So, hop in the car, grab a Timmies and check out our must-visit list of scenic lookouts in Calgary.
Dale Hodges Park is the starting point for many walking paths along the Bow River escarpment. This former gravel pit has been transformed into a scenic area offering great views of the Bow River. Paved paths and boardwalks meander through the park, which connects to nearby Bowmont Park.
Cost: Free Address: 2123 52 Street N.W.
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As the fourth-largest urban park in Canada, it’s hard to miss Nose Hill. This enormous greenspace encompasses more than 11 square kilometres smack in the middle of Calgary. There are many scenic lookouts throughout the park. Find your favourite and settle in for a great view of the city’s skyline and the Rocky Mountains. Cost: Free Address: 5620 14 St. N.W., with other access points along Shaganappi and John Laurie Blvd. Website
Tom Campbell Hill is a pretty lookout near the Calgary Zoo. Located at the end of St George’s Drive, this off-leash dog park has great views of the Bow River andthe city skyline.An exhibit at the far end offers a great place to sit and enjoy the view. Cost: Free Address: 25 St Georges Dr NE, Calgary
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This viewpoint high above Stanley Park offers a pretty view of the riverfront park below. Park in the parking lot and walk up towards the end of 38 Avenue SW for a great view of the city, forest and river below. This popular park has numerous picnic spots and walking trails for a complete day of fun. Cost: Free Address: up the hill from 4011 1a St SW, Calgary
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Crescent Heights is one of the most popular places for locals to stop and enjoy the view. Located along a residential street, this area offers great views of the Bow River and city skyline. Trails and stairs along the paths are also popular for fitness. Cost: Free Address: 1101 2 St NW, Calgary
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The Calgary Tower is possibly Calgary’s most iconic structure, with its famous needle-top tower poking through the skyline. This lookout offers exceptional views of the city and surrounding mountains. Ride the elevator to the top or climb the 802 steps yourself for a heart-pumping experience. Cost: General (13 to 64) $18.00, Senior (65+) $16.00, Child (4 to 12) $9.00, Infants (3 and under) Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 1J9
This scenic spot is popular with locals, thanks to its sweeping city views and easy access. This historical spot once saw herds of Bison roam its grassy hillbut is more popular today for lounging and hanging out. This spot also offers a great vantage point for the city’s numerous fireworks. Cost: Free Address: Scotsman’s Hill, Salisbury St. S.E.
The Toronto Crescent View Point is a hidden gem in Calgary. This lesser-known spot offers the same views at the popular Crescent Heights area, but without the crowds. An observation deck provides an excellent view of the Bow River and city skyline. Cost: Free Address: 2564 Toronto Crescent NW, Calgary Google Map
This lookout in downtown Calgary gives you a prime view of the city skyline and the Calgary Stampede grounds. Travel along 6th Street SE, and look for a large wooden platform at the intersection of Ramsay St. Watch the sunset over the Calgary Saddledome and enjoy this scenic view of the Elbow River. Cost: Free Address: 2022 Salisbury St SE, Calgary Google Map
This small park is tucked away in the depths of the Bridgeland residential area. It is a well-known spot to residents for watching fireworks and photographing Calgary’s downtown lights. Since the elevation is higher than the downtown core, a great view is always guaranteed. Cost: Free Address: Drury Ave NE, Calgary
The large off-leash dog park in the 1000-block of Bellevue Ave is your starting point to enjoy this great view. Climb the hill, lay out a blanket and enjoy the view of the Elbow River and Calgary’s skyline. This area is popular with the residents of Ramsaybut is little-known to other Calgarians. Cost: Free Address: 1000-block of Bellevue Avenue SE Google Map
This wide-open space will make you forget you are in the busy southeast community of Cranston. On a clear day, this scenic lookout offers unobstructed views of the Bow River and the Rocky Mountain foothills. Several benches and picnic spots are available. Cost: Free Address: Behind Caterpillar Park, 250 Cranston Gate SE, Calgary Google Map
This tiny area along Hillcrest Avenue is a great spot for an unobstructed view of downtown Calgary. Located in Mount Royal, you’ll also get a view of the Beltline and Mission communities. A small park and garden make this a lovely spot to sit and relax. Cost: Free Address: Hillcrest Avenue& Earl Grey Crescent SW, Calgary Google Map
This beautiful park and pathway system is located in south Calgary. It has sweeping views of the Bow River, Fish Creek Park, downtown Calgary and the distant Rocky Mountains. A paved walkway extends for several kilometers in each direction. Cost: Free Address: 133 Mt Alberta Pl SE, Calgary Google Map
McHugh Bluff Park is perched on the edge of an outcrop overlooking downtown Calgary. You’ll have to work a bit to get there, as there are several sets of stairs to climb before reaching the top. Once there, you can relax and enjoy the sights!
Cost: Free Address: Along Crescent Rd. N.W., from 10 St. N.W. to Centre St. N Website
Edworthy Park is a popular park in central Calgary for its riverfront location and hillside paths. Hop on a bike or walk to the top for a great view of the city and surrounding area. Parking is available on either side of the Bow River, with a pedestrian bridge to pass back and forth. Cost: Free Address: 5050 Spruce Drive SW, Calgary