Field Trips

Join our volunteer naturalists on outings within and beyond the Calgary. Everyone is welcome – more eyes mean more sightings! Field trips are held throughout the year and visit parks, natural areas and wildlands within the city and in the prairies, foothills and mountains. Field trips are led by Nature Calgary volunteers with local knowledge. Nature Calgary also organizes special trips to explore natural areas beyond Calgary, including bus trips.

Upcoming field trips are listed below. For any questions about the field trips, please contact the field trip leader directly.

Nature Calgary updates the field trips throughout the year to accommodate trail conditions and weather. Become a member for the latest updates or check this page often for trip updates.

Field Trip FAQ

Before the trip

Who can join the field trips?
Everyone is welcome to join the field trips. Check the event description for the level of activity and length of the outing. If you have any questions before the trip, contact the event leader.
Who leads the trips?

The field trips are led by volunteers with a passion for nature and for sharing their enthusiasm and knowledge with others. Our volunteers have walked the paths before and will try to encourage your interest in natural history. If you are interested in leading a trip, learn more about our volunteer opportunities.

What if the weather is questionable?
Calgary’s weather can change quick. To confirm the field trip will still happen, contact the trip leader and check this page for updates. If you’re uncertain, always contact the trip leader.

 

If the weather changes for the worse during the trip, the outing may be cut short. And sometimes, trips are extended if the weather is great and everyone is having a good experience.

How much do the field trips cost?
Most field trips are free for Nature Calgary members, with the exception of our special trips. If the trip has a fee, payment can be submitted through the website when registering for the trip. Non-members can join in most field trips and non-member pricing is available for our special trips.
Do I need to RSVP?
Most field trips do not require pre-registration. Some events, such as our bus trips, do require pre-registration. Please check the event details to confirm if pre-registration is required. If pre-registration is required, please contact the trip leader at least 24 hours in advance of the outing.
During the trip
Where is the meeting place?
The outings are located throughout and beyond the city. See the event descriptions for the meeting places and times – they are different for each field trip.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes – all participants must sign a waiver and release.

 

What should I bring?

Bring appropriate clothing, gear and food for the conditions and expected duration of the field trip. Here is a suggested list:

 

  • Appropriate footwear and clothing
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Insect repellent
  • Water, snacks and a lunch if going for a full day
  • Camera
Can I bring my dog?
No – we ask that you leave your dog at home.
Are there any ethics or etiquette that I should be aware of?
Participants are requested to stay with the group, let the leader lead, share the sighting and move quietly. For more information about birding etiquette please see the American Birding Association Code of Birding Ethics.
 

Have more questions? Contact the trip leader directly or send us a message with any general inquiries.

 

Upcoming Field Trips

Events Search and Views Navigation

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Event Series Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Friday Morning Walks)

Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Friday Morning Walks)

Event Description: Are you curious about the birds you see in your neighborhood? Eager to learn more about our feathered friends and how to identify them? Join us for Birding 101, a comprehensive course designed for beginners and aspiring birders! What to Expect: Birding 101 consists of four engaging online classes and four exciting in-person […]

68th Street Wetlands

68 Street SE Wetlands Alberta, Canada

Please register with trip leader Andrew Hart at andrewhartch@icloud.com

St. Patrick’s Island

656 Confluence Way SE 656 Confluence Way SE, Calgary, AB, Canada

Join Nature Calgary for a bird walk on St. Patrick's Island. These walks are open to the public and allow you to explore St. Patrick’s Island with a knowledgeable guide to observe the fascinating variety of birds found in their natural habitat. Each season brings new and different birds to St. Patrick’s Island. Our guides […]

Birding and Nature Walk at Ralph Klein Park

Ralph Klein Park 12350 84 Street SE, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Please register with Trip Leader Jessica Armand by e-mailing jess.armand11*@gmail.com (remove asterisk). Dress for the weather (no shade so bring a hat) and for walking on gravel paths for 2km. All levels of birdwatching are welcome.

Event Series Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Sunday Morning Walks)

Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Sunday Morning Walks)

Birding 101 Event Description: Are you curious about the birds you see in your neighborhood? Eager to learn more about our feathered friends and how to identify them? Join us for Birding 101, a comprehensive course designed for beginners and aspiring birders! What to Expect: Birding 101 consists of four engaging online classes and four […]

Airdrie Nose Creek Park

Airdrie Nose Creek Park Airdrie, Alberta, Canada

Please register with trip leader Andrew Hart at andrewhartch@icloud.com

Ralph Klein Park

Ralph Klein Park 12350 84 Street SE, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

We will spend the morning seeking shorebirds, gulls, and herons. Meet in parking lot off north of the visitors centre. The walk is quite flat and friendly to those with physical challenges. Can be windy. Finish by 11:00am. Bathroom access is terrific. Please bring water, sunscreen and insect repellent. Leader Doug Lawson: 403-512-8729, lawson.doug@icloud.com. Please […]

Event Series Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Friday Morning Walks)

Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Friday Morning Walks)

Event Description: Are you curious about the birds you see in your neighborhood? Eager to learn more about our feathered friends and how to identify them? Join us for Birding 101, a comprehensive course designed for beginners and aspiring birders! What to Expect: Birding 101 consists of four engaging online classes and four exciting in-person […]

Event Series Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Sunday Morning Walks)

Birding 101 – Birding for Beginners (Sunday Morning Walks)

Birding 101 Event Description: Are you curious about the birds you see in your neighborhood? Eager to learn more about our feathered friends and how to identify them? Join us for Birding 101, a comprehensive course designed for beginners and aspiring birders! What to Expect: Birding 101 consists of four engaging online classes and four […]

Nature Walk – West Edworthy Park

Edworthy Park (south parking lot) Alberta, Canada

Meet at the south parking lot down the hill from the end of Spruce Drive SW. Please register with leader John McFaul at alpglow@telus.net or 403 289-9517

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