Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
A serene urban oasis in Calgary, offering diverse birdlife, scenic trails along the Bow River, and a rich history of conservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bird activity
Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
Best Time
Peak bird activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban oasis in Calgary, offering diverse birdlife, scenic trails along the Bow River, and a rich history of conservation.
"A delightful haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike, offering a serene and picturesque environment."
🚶♀️ Leave Fido at Home
No dogs allowed to protect the birds and other wildlife. Leave your furry friends at home for a peaceful visit.
🚴♂️ No Bikes Allowed
Bicycles are also prohibited to maintain the sanctuary's tranquility and safety for its inhabitants.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Birdlife
Throughout the sanctuary
Spot over 270 bird species, including woodpeckers, magpies, and even bald eagles. A true haven for avian enthusiasts.
Scenic River Trails
Along the Bow River
Enjoy peaceful walks with benches and viewing platforms, perfect for observing waterfowl and the natural beauty.
Nature Centre & Museum
Entrance area
A welcoming hub with informative displays about the sanctuary's flora and fauna, plus clean restrooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Bird Sightings
Sanctuary Access & Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Leave Fido at Home
No dogs allowed to protect the birds and other wildlife. Leave your furry friends at home for a peaceful visit.
🚴♂️ No Bikes Allowed
Bicycles are also prohibited to maintain the sanctuary's tranquility and safety for its inhabitants.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning wildlife and scenic views. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photography. 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but can be long. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the sanctuary.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Leave Fido at Home
No dogs allowed to protect the birds and other wildlife. Leave your furry friends at home for a peaceful visit.
🚴♂️ No Bikes Allowed
Bicycles are also prohibited to maintain the sanctuary's tranquility and safety for its inhabitants.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning wildlife and scenic views. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photography.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails are well-maintained but can be long. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the sanctuary.
🦉 Pack Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience by bringing binoculars to get a closer look at the diverse species.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Inglewood Bird Sanctuary for its serene atmosphere, well-maintained trails, and abundant wildlife, making it a gem for nature lovers and families. The free entry and convenient location near downtown Calgary are significant draws, though some may find the trails less challenging.
"Fantastic walk with the family, enjoying God's beautiful scenery.
Small museum at the front, side gate on the side of the museum which allows access to the sanctuary.
Birds, deer, porcupines, beavers have been seen here.
Best time to go, in my opinion, is Fall!
See photos."
L. Smith
"Inglewood Bird Sanctuary in Calgary, Canada, is a delightful haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. My visit was thoroughly enjoyable, as the sanctuary offered a serene and picturesque environment. The well-maintained trails are clearly marked, making it easy to navigate through the lush greenery and various habitats that attract a diverse array of bird species.
The sanctuary is home to numerous bird species, and I was fortunate to spot several during my visit, including some rare finds. Each trail is designed to enhance the viewing experience, with strategically placed benches and viewing platforms that allow for unobstructed observation of the birds in their natural surroundings.
The reception center is impressively designed, providing a welcoming atmosphere with a wealth of information about the sanctuary and its inhabitants. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights and answering questions with enthusiasm. The center also features clean and well-maintained washrooms, which are a much-appreciated convenience.
Overall, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a gem in Calgary, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a seasoned bird watcher or just looking for a tranquil place to enjoy nature, this sanctuary is well worth a visit. Highly recommended for its beautiful trails, abundant bird life, and excellent facilities."
Swapnil
"We took a beautiful walk along the river, where we saw lots of wood ducks, magpies, northern flickers, two sharp shinned hawks and both a juvenile and adult bald eagle. There are benches along the trail that provide peaceful places to sit and watch the river flow by. This sanctuary is close to downtown Calgary with plenty of parking and a very nice visitor center with washrooms. I’d love to visit during the peak of spring and fall migration. I’m sure it’s teeming with birds then!"
Janice Castro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is conveniently located just 7 minutes from downtown Calgary. or consider public transport options depending on your starting point. The proximity to downtown makes it an accessible nature escape.
Yes, there is parking available at the sanctuary, making it easy to access by car.
While the sanctuary is accessible, bicycles are not permitted within the sanctuary itself to protect the wildlife.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is completely free!
The trails are open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted at the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary to ensure the safety and well-being of the wildlife.
Bicycles are not allowed inside the sanctuary grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of birds, with over 270 species recorded.
The trails are generally well-maintained and clearly marked, making them easy to navigate. They offer excellent bridges and river access.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for families, with kids enjoying the bridges and bird spotting. The free entry and natural beauty make it a great outing.
There is a visitor center with informative displays and clean, well-maintained washrooms.
Yes, the Colonel Walker House is a neat historical viewing site within the sanctuary.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during sunset, offer beautiful light for photography and often coincide with peak wildlife activity.
Bird photography is very popular, with opportunities to capture various species in their natural habitat. Wildlife photography in general, including mammals, is also rewarding.
Be patient and quiet to observe wildlife. Consider bringing a telephoto lens for birds and a wider lens for landscapes. Early or late light is best.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Birdwatchers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven for Wildlife Since 1929
+1 This dedication to conservation has made it a sanctuary for a remarkable array of species.Today, the sanctuary is home to an impressive biodiversity. It boasts records of 270 bird species, 21 mammal species, and 347 plant species.
+1 This rich ecosystem makes it a significant area for ecological study and a wonderful place for visitors to connect with nature. The sanctuary's ongoing commitment ensures its survival for future generations.Visitors can explore the sanctuary's natural beauty through its well-maintained trails. These paths wind through diverse habitats, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. The presence of the Bow River adds to the scenic appeal, providing a habitat for waterfowl and a tranquil backdrop for a walk.
Exploring the Trails and Observing Wildlife
Birdwatching is a primary activity here, with numerous species to spot. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers, magpies, and even birds of prey like bald eagles.
Beyond birds, the sanctuary is also home to mammals such as deer, and occasionally, you might even encounter a coyote or beaver. For an enhanced experience, consider bringing binoculars to get a closer look at the birds in the trees or along the riverbanks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit