The best road cycling routes around Calgary

Calgary offers a vast network of road cycling routes, with over 180 routes available on komoot. This includes a wide variety of options, from easy urban loops to more challenging rides with moderate elevation changes.

Calgary's road cycling terrain is diverse. Within the city, you'll find mostly gentle, well-paved pathways along river valleys like the Bow and Elbow, and through large urban parks. For those seeking more challenge, the proximity to the Rocky Mountains provides options for routes with greater elevation, such as the 'Road to Nepal' in the Priddis Area, known for significant climbing.

Yes, Calgary's extensive pathway system includes many family-friendly options. Routes along the Bow River Pathway or around the Glenmore Reservoir offer mostly flat, paved surfaces, making them suitable for cyclists of all ages and abilities. These paths often connect to parks and amenities, perfect for a family day out.

Calgary's routes offer numerous scenic stops. Along the Bow River Pathway, you can enjoy views of the city skyline and pass through Peace Bridge (Calgary) and Prince's Island Park. The Glenmore Reservoir loop provides views of sailboats and the Weaselhead Natural Area. Other notable landmarks include Barry Erskine Bridge and the vast landscapes of Fish Creek Provincial Park.

For distance riders, Calgary offers several options. The Rotary/Mattamy Greenway forms a 138-kilometer ring around the city, connecting numerous communities and parks. Outside the city, routes like the Calgary to Chestermere ride can extend up to 80 km, and the Canola Century Ride offers a 100-mile experience through farmlands north of Calgary.

The best time for road cycling in Calgary is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the pathways are clear of snow and ice. Late July is particularly scenic for the Canola Century Ride when the canola fields are in bloom.

Many urban routes in Calgary, especially those along the Bow River Pathway, pass through or near neighborhoods like Kensington, which offer numerous cafes and restaurants. Prince's Island Park, a popular stop on river pathways, also hosts eateries. For example, the Lazy Loaf Bakery – View of Bowmont Park loop from Barlow/Max Bell starts near a popular bakery.

Calgary caters to all skill levels. You'll find a significant number of easy routes, perfect for beginners or leisurely rides, making up about 84 of the total routes. Moderate routes are also abundant, with 94 options, offering longer distances or gentle climbs. There are a few difficult routes (3 total) for experienced cyclists seeking more challenging elevation gains, particularly closer to the mountains.

The road cycling routes around Calgary are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive, well-maintained pathway network, the scenic river views, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Yes, the Glenmore Reservoir is a popular feature for road cyclists. Routes like the Barry Erskine Bridge – Weaselhead Natural Area loop from Sunalta and the View of the Reservoir – Weaselhead Natural Area loop from Shaganappi Point offer beautiful views of the reservoir and its surrounding natural areas, including the Weaselhead Natural Area.

Calgary offers various parking options near its extensive pathway network. Many parks, such as Fish Creek Provincial Park and Nose Hill Park, have designated parking lots. Additionally, many urban routes are accessible from neighborhood streets with street parking, or from public transit hubs, allowing for flexible starting points.

Absolutely. The Bow River Pathway is one of Calgary's most iconic and extensive pathways, perfect for road cycling. It offers stunning city skyline views, passes through key attractions like Prince's Island Park, and connects to other pathways, providing a smooth and scenic ride through the heart of the city. A popular option is the Prince's Island Park – Bow River loop from Shaganappi Point.