Whether you are new to Calgary or you’re born and raised in YYC, it’s time to learn a little bit more about Parks Foundation Calgary’s Rotary/Mattamy Greenway — the longest urban pathway in the world.
This one-of-a-kind environmental destination stretches 138 km, surrounding the entire city from First Nation communities such as Tsuu T’ina Nation and Blackfoot lands, to ex-hamlets including Midnapore and Shepard. As a new claim to fame for the city, the Greenway offers incredible access to Calgary’s natural landscape and has few restrictions on who, how or when it’s used. Accessibility is a no-brainer as the routes directly connect to 55 communities, tapping into all four quadrants of the city and intertwining with almost 1,000 km of the city’s prevailing pathways all year long.
Once completed in late 2017, the Greenway will be recognized as the longest urban pathway and park system in the world. If that isn’t enough motivation to explore the Greenway, then the “mark your map” worthy stops along the way should be. With tons of path to cover and amenities to visit, we highlight the top ten features along the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway.
1. Tourmaline Outdoor Fitness Park in Point McKay
Take one of the nine pieces of Norwell Outdoor Fitness Equipment for a test run. If you thought that was too good to be true, the area also includes its very own “fix-it” bike station.
2. Cityscape Interpretive Wetland
Stop and stare for a breath of fresh air at Cityscape Interpretive Wetland. With music and educational signage integrated into this scenic playground, Mattamy Homes gives you an unexpected way to learn and enjoy the Greenway on the go.
3. TransCanada Outdoor Fitness Park and Mahogany Wetlands
Get creative with your workout and utilize this outdoor fitness area, specifically geared towards adults. With plenty of tough obstacles to work through such as large boulders and ropes, your inner child is bound to come out to play.
4. The Cranston Ridge Pathways
Fuel up on your journey with a “grab and go” beverage or bite at the Cranston Market shopping center. Make your trip quick and easy or travel farther down the pathways where you’ll run into the Rotary Nature Park.
5. Taradale Dog Park
As one of two fully fenced dog parks located along the Greenway, Taradale is fixed with benches and weave poles so you and your pup can let loose at the northeast pit stop.
6. Progress Energy Memorial Garden
With 9,000 poppies planted by volunteers, this flourishing memorial park deserves an honest moment of reflection as it honors those who served our country, and those who continue to do so.
7. CN Rail Playpark
Plan your next play date at the CN Rail Playpark where the “wee” ones can climb and crawl through rocks and ropes. Located near the area of Applewood, this unique area offers an imaginative way to play.
8. Baker Park
With picturesque views of the Bow River and Bowness Park, the Greenway gives us a reason to visit Baker Park. The park also features an 18-hole disc golf course. “What is disc golf?” you ask? You’ll just have to stop by to find out.
9. The Northeast Pathways
Although the Greenway is convenient for on foot travel, this route is well recommended for those looking to explore other areas of the city with plenty of parking available to drop and walk.
10. #Greenway150 Summer Challenge
We saved the best for last. To celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday, PFC has introduced a free #Greenway150 Summer Challenge. Starting June 25th, Calgarians are encouraged to register as an individual or team (including four-legged friends) and enjoy 150 km on the Greenway for a chance to win weekly prizes.
If you want to know if any of the listed amenities are near you or how to get there, there are several options to assist in guiding you through your Greenway experience. First, after downloading the City of Calgary Pathways & Bikeways App, users have the option to selectively choose the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway map. If you are feeling keen, plan in advance and download the Greenway map . If all else fails, there are plenty of signs and posts along the way to keep you on track.
For more information visit greenway150.com
By Robyn Potolicki
