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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
26 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1-1.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Lafarge Meadows

Lafarge Meadows
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Be sure to grab binoculars and bring the whole family for a hike at Lafarge Meadows in Calgary’s Southeast. Diverse wildlife like moose, owls, osprey and red-necked grebes can be found among the engineered wetlands. Walk alongside the Bow River or maybe even cast a line in the water, then head past the Blue Devil Golf Club where you can spot golfers practicing their swing.

Route Description for Lafarge Meadows

Park at the Fish Creek boat launch parking lot, which is the last parking lot before a gate that blocks the road.

Walk back towards the road and turn left, heading through a gate and under Stoney Trail. Once you walk under the overpass, you’ll notice a dirt trail to your left-hand side next to the river.

Follow along the dirt path to enjoy a closer view of the river and some shade among the trees. Be warned that the trail is narrow, and at times can require hopping over small water features. We’ve always been able to get our single chariot stroller over, but sometimes it’s a bit stressful, don’t be afraid to turn around.

Travel south along the dirt trail, where you’ll find the occasional pebbled beach. These are perfect if you want to relax in the sun or have a picnic.

Continue to follow the path, looking out for waterfowl on the water like pelicans, hawks, eagles, ducks and ospreys. You’ll often see fly fisherman here as well. It’s a scenic, peaceful spot.

Eventually the path narrows and then becomes very faint. It’s easy to keep following the river, however the smart walker will move off from the path beside the river and head up to the right to find another dirt path on a rise above the river. Follow this path until you get to a paved bike trail. Follow the paved trail until it turns right (west) into the community of Wolf Willow.

This is the turnaround point, so head back along the same paved bike path.

Walking back along the paved bike path makes for an easy trip back through beautiful grasslands. The tall grass and shrubs on either side are the perfect hiding place for birds, so keep an eye out in the surrounding trees. Keep your ears open for frogs, along the edges of ponds as well.

On your left-hand side, you’ll notice the Blue Devil Golf Club, where golfers can be seen zipping by in golf carts and practicing their swings.

Keep walking north until you find yourself back on Bow Bottom Trail SE. Follow the road until you reach the parking lot.

Side note: If the bridge is under construction (as it is currently), you can start the hike from the south end by going past the Blue Devil Golf Course.

Insider Hints for Lafarge Meadows

  • The hike can be extended by going north up to Hulls Wood and even to Fish Creek Ranch.
  • If you plan on taking the dirt trail on our map, be sure to pay attention to where the right path is so you don’t end up bushwhacking.

Getting to the Lafarge Meadows Trailhead

Take Deerfoot South and keep right for Bow Bottom Trail SE, then follow Bow Bottom Trail SE until you reach Fish Creek. Enter Fish Creek Park and keep driving until you reach the Fish Creek boat launch parking lot.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Lafarge Meadows Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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