Fish Creek Provincial Park Map

Fish Creek Provincial Park, nestled in the southern part of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is a lush and expansive urban park that offers a natural retreat in the midst of a bustling city. With its establishment dating back to June 10, 1975, the park is governed by Alberta Environment and Parks and spans an impressive 13.48 km² (5.20 sq mi). The park’s coordinates are 50°55′18″N 114°03′30″W.

Location and Natural Setting

Surrounded by the city on three sides and bordered on the west by the Tsuu T’ina Nation (Sarcee), a First Nation’s territory, Fish Creek Park is a testament to Calgary’s commitment to preserving natural habitats. Much of the park remains in its original, forested state, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife and plant species.

Fish Creek, the waterway from which the park gets its name, meanders through the entire length of the park, ultimately joining the Bow River on the park’s eastern edge. Additionally, an artificial lake within the park boundaries offers opportunities for swimming and recreation.

Recreation and Amenities

With over 100 kilometres (62 mi) of trails, both paved and unpaved, Fish Creek Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails are suitable for hiking, biking, and nature walks, while picnic areas, swimming spots, and fishing locations provide a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages.

Notable amenities in the park include:

• Visitor Centre
• Environmental Learning Centre
• Picnic Shelters and Group Day-Use Areas
• Restaurant and Concession Stands
• Sikome Lake Aquatic Centre
• Boat Launch at the Bow River
• Mackenzie Meadows Golf Course

Swimming is a popular activity at Sikome Lake, and fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the bounty of Fish Creek and the Bow River. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, owls, beavers, garter snakes, frogs, and over 200 bird species.

Geologic Setting

The Fish Creek valley was carved at the end of the last Ice Age by meltwater from retreating glaciers in the mountains to the west, giving the park its unique topography and geologic features. The valley exposes layers of sandstones, siltstones, and mudstones from the early Paleocene era, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s geologic past.

Overlying these bedrock layers are unconsolidated sediments, including glacial till, post-glacial stream deposits, loess, paleosols, and recent soil horizons. The park also features the Mazama Ash, a layer of volcanic ash that is a remnant of the eruption that formed Crater Lake in Oregon, spread to this region by prevailing winds.