Types of cycle tracks and bike lanes
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Calgary features a variety of designated cycling spaces in addition to our extensive pathway system. Each space reflects the best design for the location and existing traffic flows, as described below. Signs and road markings accompany each space; visit the Cycling signs, road markings and traffic signals page for details.
Downtown cycle tracks
A cycle track is a bike lane separated from other modes of traffic by a physical barrier. They are the most effective way of reducing potential conflicts between people driving, cycling and walking, and make sharing the road a more safe and predictable experience for everyone.
Download the Cycle Tracks Guide for more tips and illustrations on using the downtown network, and view or print a map of the full cycle track network.
Recent changes to the transportation bylaw include the legalization of motorized and non-motorized mobility devices on the cycle track and in public spaces in the downtown core. See the helpful guide for where different types of transportation modes are allowed.
Note: When operating in the cycling track, non-motorized and motorized modes are still expected to follow bicycle traffic signals and signs.
Two-way cycle tracks
- Tracks run in both directions on the same side of a street, typically a one-way for drivers.
- Custom bicycle-traffic signals direct people cycling through intersections.
- Two-way cycle tracks are located downtown on 5th Street S.W., 7th Street S.W. and 12th Avenue South.
One-way cycle tracks
- Cycle tracks are located on either side of the street.
- People cycling travel in the same direction as vehicle traffic.
- Regular traffic signals direct all road users through intersections.
- There are one-way cycle tracks on 8th Avenue S.W. and 9th Avenue South.
- Motorized and non-motorized mobility devices (such as non-motorized and motorized scooters*, inline skates and skateboards) are now permitted on the downtown cycle track and in public spaces in the downtown core, including Olympic Plaza, Stephen Avenue Mall and Barclay Mall.
Stephen/8th Avenue and Olympic Plaza
- People cycling share the avenue with people walking. Pedestrians always have the right of way.
- Cycling is permitted on the avenue between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., people cycling share the avenue with drivers between First Street S.E. and Sixth Street S.W., and leave the sidewalks for people walking.
- Between Macleod Trail and First Street S.E., cyclists share the avenue with both drivers and pedestrians.
- Bicycles are not permitted at any time in Olympic Plaza.
- Cyclists must follow all road closure signs and walk their bikes when pedestrian traffic is heavy.
- In sections where the sidewalk is designated for people cycling and walking, pedestrians have the right of way.
- Motorized and non-motorized mobility devices (such as non-motorized and motorized scooters*, inline skates and skateboards) are now permitted on the downtown cycle track and in public spaces in the downtown core, including Olympic Plaza, Stephen Avenue Mall and Barclay Mall.
Bike Lanes
Bike lanes and shared lanes give people cycling dedicated space on Calgary roadways, better enabling them to access destinations across the city.
Bike lanes are typically on Priority 2 snow routes and cleared within 48 hours after the snowfall ends.
On-street bike lane
- Designated on-street cycling space
- Identified by a ‘Cycling lane begins here’ sign, and a white line, bicycle icon and caution symbol (diamond shape) road markings.
Shared lane
- People driving and cycling share the same lane.
- Identified by ‘Share the Road’ signs and road markings.
- Depending on the width of the travel lane and signage, cyclists and drivers may travel side-by-side or single file.
Signed bicycle route
- Identified by a blue and white sign and, in some locations, road markings.
- Signed bike routes indicate dedicated cycle routes are nearby (arrows point in the direction to follow).