How to find free or cheap bike paths in Calgary?

Calgary is a true paradise for cycling enthusiasts. There are over 1,000 km of bike paths, most of which are completely free. If you want to not only pedal but also discover new places, here are some simple instructions on how to do so comfortably and without unnecessary expenses.

🗺 Where to find good routes

🟢 Greenway — a loop through the entire city

• What it is: 138 km of paved trails that pass through 55 neighborhoods in Calgary.
• Picturesque places: Fish Creek Park, Nose Hill Park, and others.
• Interactive map: Pathways and Bikeways Map
• PDF routes: Official city website

🗺 Pathways and Bikeways Map

• Online map with filters: Interactive map with the ability to filter by trail type (separate, mixed with car traffic).
• Printed versions: Available at libraries, pools, and even at the Co-op.
• Current detours and repairs: All closures and detours are displayed on the map in real time.

📱 Useful apps

• Google Maps: Turn on bike mode and the app will plan your route along the safest paths.
• Strava: Shows the most popular local routes with a “heat map.”
• Komoot: Ready-made routes with difficulty levels and time estimates.

💲 Where to rent a bike or electric scooter

• 🚲 Mobi by Rogers

• $19 CAD — daily pass (30 minutes unlimited)

• $169 CAD — annual subscription (more cost-effective)

• Official website

• 🚴‍♂️ SportsRent

• Ideal for mountain bikes — prices start at $45 CAD/day.

• Official website

• 🛴 Neuron or Bird (electric scooters)

• Cost — from $0.25/min.

• You can ride on bike paths and quiet streets.

🏞 3 top routes for beginners

1. Bow River Pathway

• 48 km along the river, with cafes and beautiful views.

2. Nose Hill Park

• 30 km of dirt trails where you feel like you're in the middle of nature.

3. Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

• Only 3 km, but with swans, birds, and tranquility.

💡 Tips to save money

• Community Pass
• If you're new to the area or on a tight budget, you can get Mobi for $20 CAD per year.
• Bike to Work Day
• Free coffee and even bike repairs on site.
• Do it yourself
• Learn how to change tires or adjust brakes on YouTube. For example, check out the Park Tool channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/parktoolcompany).

⚠️ To avoid fines

• Always stay on the right side of the road.
• Use hand signals when turning.
• Helmets are mandatory for children and highly recommended for adults.
• In the evening, lights are mandatory: white in front, red in back.

Calgary offers many opportunities for cycling, from long routes to short family trips. Use maps, apps, and tips to get the most enjoyment and spend the least amount of money!