Free nature activities
Free nature activities
Free opportunities to learn about the local plants, trees and wildlife that make their home in Calgary. All ages are welcome! Programs will run indoors during inclement weather.
Please note that our drop-in programs are intended for families and small groups. For larger groups including summer camps, please see our group nature program options here.
Benefits of nature activities
- Connect with nature by getting to know the plants, trees and wildlife that calls Calgary home.
- Develop eco-literacy good stewardship habits to coexist with our wild neighbours.
- Foster a sense of ecological community.
- Encourage curiosity about nature.
- Take pride in our local parks and natural ecosystems.
Types of activities
About our leaders/instructors
Our Parks Program Ambassadors are experienced environmental educators with a deep-rooted passion for our local plants, trees and wildlife. Dedicated to fostering meaningful connections with the natural world, they bring expertise and enthusiasm to every program.
All staff are certified in Intermediate First Aid, CPR and AED, and possess extensive experience in engaging with individuals of all ages.
What are the activities like?
Wetland Wonders
In this 90 minute program, you and your kids will get to catch and gently examine some of the aquatic invertebrates (also known as bugs!) that live in our wetlands. You will learn how these small creatures contribute to wetland health, how these healthy wetlands benefit our larger water systems and what role you can play in the well-being of our watershed.
Register on-site before the program start time.
Birding Breaks
Birding Breaks are 90 minute guided tours of the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary. With lots of exciting artefacts and visuals, as well as binoculars available to borrow, you will learn all about this very special ecosystem in the heart of Calgary. Our Parks Program ambassadors bring a wealth of knowledge about the plants, animals, and rich history of the area.
Register on-site before the program start time.
Community Nature Walks
Join staff from Parks and Open Spaces for a 90-minute walk to learn about the local plants and wildlife in our communities. Through this guided walk and activities, you will explore one of the many neighborhood green spaces within Calgary and discover the wild right in your backyard.
YYC Trees: Guided Walks
Learn more about the beautiful trees in your community or local park with a free, 90 minute guided tree walk with Calgary Parks and Open Spaces. You will learn some fun facts and unique characteristics about our city’s trees, find out how to identify trees in your community, learn what trees would make great additions to your own yard, hear interesting stories and more.
Come prepared
Dress for the weather and please bring:
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Binoculars (optional)
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
