Last Saturday and today, I went for long bike rides. Each time, I rode for about 75 kms (~50 mi) through Edworthy Park, Glenmore Park, across Fish Creek Park, Carburn Park, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, parts of downtown, Calgary Zoo and back to Edworthy Park.
For both rides, the weather was great with temperature in the mid 30s C, (~95F). For the most part, the bike and pedestrian paths were not busy. The busiest locations were in the downtown core and at Edworthy Park.
The circuit takes between four to five hours, depending on how fast you want to go as well as how often and how long you want to break. I am not a speed demon and go at moderate speeds, though I tend to take few breaks.
As mentioned, the route is not busy, except for a few locations. Even then, it is great to people watch. It is a large circular route, so I don’t double back on any paths and I get to see a large portion of the city. And, for a large portion of the circuit, I am traveling through various scenic parks, especially through Glenmore and Fish Creek parks. It is a fun, reasonably quiet, and scenic ride.
If you decide to travel this route, I encourage you to stop frequently in Fish Creek Park to check the maps. It is a large park and it is easy to lose your way. You can always ask people nearby for directions. Last week I took a few wrong turns and explored more of Calgary than I anticipated. That, however, is part of the fun.
Also, make sure you have a bell on your bike and use it. Unless the person ahead of you signals that he or she has heard you, you should assume that the person is wearing an iPod. Slow down and provide lots of room. Watch for dogs, as they often move in an unpredictable fashion. Furthermore, wear sufficient sunscreen to protect yourself.
Even though it was hot both Saturdays, I didn’t drink a lot of water. I brought one water bottle with me and refilled at Fish Creek and Edworthy parks.
A great resource for those who enjoy biking is the Calgary Pathway and Bikeway Map - 2006. The map can be purchased online for two dollars plus an additional dollar for delivery. If this link is broken in future years, try going to the City of Calgary website and then finding the online store. From there, search for paper maps. For the pathway and bike map, according to the website, you can contact Guy Beavers by email or by phone at 403.537.7560.
You can also view the maps online at Calgary eMaps. In addition, I encourage using Google Maps to get a sense of your route. I like having a visual idea of various markers before heading out.
The photograph above of Pretty Woman With Orange Pants And A Big Black Dog was taken while leaving the downtown core and on my way to Edworthy Park. I have stopped at this particular location a few times because it offers a great view of downtown. The pictures are hosted on Flickr, and if you click on the top picture, you will be taken to Flickr where you can see more pictures.
Leave a comment