Calgary Attractions
Nose Hill Park
Rising above northwest Calgary, Nose Hill Park protects more than 11 square kilometres of native grassland. The City set it aside in 1980 as a natural environment park. It covers 1,129 hectares, the City's address for it is 6465 14 Street NW, and it's open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Operated by
- City of Calgary Parks
- City district
- Nose Hill Park — City parkland, not a residential community
- Interpretive trail
- 1.6 km return, barrier-free (on-site sign)
- Bordering communities
- 13, from City of Calgary community boundaries
Why the Grass Matters
Most of the hill is rough fescue, and the City calls Nose Hill one of the most significant examples of that grassland left on the Canadian prairies. In the coulees, the plants change: trembling aspen and willows cover the north-facing slopes and give wildlife shelter.
Wildlife to Watch For
You may see deer, coyotes, porcupines, pocket gophers or Richardson's ground squirrels. Look up, too, because northern harriers and Swainson's hawks hunt over the grass.
A Place with Deep Roots
Indigenous peoples used this hill for thousands of years, and tipi rings and other archaeological sites have been recorded here. A Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy) landmark stands in the park.
My Tips
- The Interpretive Trail is barrier-free and 1.6 km return
- Dogs can run in the designated off-leash areas
- There's very little shade, so bring water and a hat
- Give coyotes space and never feed them
- On a clear day, you can see the Rockies from the top
Neighbourhoods Around the Park
Sandstone Valley, MacEwan Glen, Beddington Heights, Huntington Hills, Thorncliffe, Cambrian Heights, Collingwood, Charleswood, Brentwood, Dalhousie, North Haven, North Haven Upper and Edgemont all sit on the edge of the park.
Nose Hill Park in pictures
Photographed on the ground by Kelly Baker.
Communities around Nose Hill Park
The residential communities closest to it.