Canada Olympic Park | Calgary

Canada Olympic Park (COP), located in Calgary, Alberta, is a premier sports and recreational facility that holds significant historical value. Originally built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, it has evolved into a year-round destination for both athletes and the public, offering a wide variety of activities for all ages and skill levels. COP is not only a key part of Calgary’s sports infrastructure but also a popular spot for outdoor recreation, education, and family fun.

Overview of Canada Olympic Park

Location: Canada Olympic Park is located in the western part of Calgary, in the Paskapoo Slopes area, just a short distance from downtown. The park is situated on Bowmont Park and the Trans-Canada Highway.

History: COP was originally built for the 1988 Winter Olympic Games held in Calgary. The park hosted several Olympic events, including alpine skiing, bobsleigh, luge, skating, and more. After the games, the site was transformed into a multi-purpose sports park that remains integral to Calgary’s sporting community.

Size: The park spans over 2,000 acres, offering a vast space for a variety of activities, from winter sports to summer events, making it one of the largest parks of its kind in Canada.

Key Features and Attractions

Canada Olympic Park is home to a range of attractions, facilities, and sports that make it a popular destination year-round.

1. Winter Sports Facilities

Since its origins as a Winter Olympic venue, COP has retained its strong focus on winter sports. Some of the most popular winter activities at the park include:

Skiing and Snowboarding: The park is home to downhill skiing and snowboarding slopes suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. The Olympic ski hill offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas.

Bobsleigh and Luge: COP features the Canada Olympic Park Bobsleigh Track, where visitors can try the exhilarating experience of riding down an Olympic bobsleigh track during the winter months. You can even take part in a bobsleigh experience with professional drivers during specific seasons.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: In addition to downhill skiing, COP has groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a more relaxed way to enjoy the outdoors in winter.

Skating: During the colder months, outdoor skating is available on designated rinks. In addition, there are indoor skating facilities at the park, where visitors can enjoy ice skating in a more controlled environment.

2. Summer Sports and Recreation

While COP is best known for winter sports, it is also a year-round destination. During the warmer months, the park offers a wide range of summer activities:

Mountain Biking: Canada Olympic Park features mountain biking trails, catering to riders of all levels. The mountain bike park includes a variety of terrains, including technical trails, jumps, and downhill routes.

Zipline: One of the most thrilling summer activities at COP is the zipline, which allows visitors to soar over the ski hills for an adrenaline-pumping ride. The zipline offers a unique perspective of the park and is especially popular among visitors looking for an exciting outdoor adventure.

Golf: The park includes a mini-golf course, perfect for families and beginners, as well as golf lessons and driving ranges for those looking to practice their skills.

Outdoor Adventure and Play Areas: COP features a number of recreational play areas and open spaces for picnics, games, and family activities.

3. Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame

Another important attraction at Canada Olympic Park is the Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, which celebrates Canadian athletes and teams who have excelled in national and international sports. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing:

The History of Canadian Sport: The Hall of Fame tells the stories of legendary athletes and pivotal moments in Canadian sports history, with interactive displays and exhibits dedicated to the achievements of Canada's greatest sports figures.

Olympic Legacy: The Hall of Fame features numerous Olympic athletes, especially those who participated in the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, and offers insights into the impact of the games on Canada’s sporting culture.

Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can engage with hands-on exhibits that allow them to test their own sports skills or learn about Canadian sports achievements in various disciplines.

4. The WinSport Academy and Training Facilities

Canada Olympic Park is also home to WinSport, a major organization that provides training and athlete development. The WinSport Academy is a state-of-the-art training facility that supports athletes from various sports, including:

Alpine skiing and snowboarding

Bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton

Track and field

Hockey and figure skating

Gymnastics

The park offers a range of programs for athletes at different levels, from recreational skiers to elite competitors preparing for national and international competitions.

5. Olympic Legacy

Canada Olympic Park remains a testament to the success of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Visitors can experience the legacy of the Olympic Games through exhibits, events, and various features of the park that were specifically designed for the Olympics:

Olympic Cauldron: The Olympic Cauldron, where the flame was lit during the 1988 Winter Games, is still standing and can be visited as part of the Olympic legacy.

Hilltop Viewpoints: The park’s hilltop views offer panoramic vistas of Calgary, the surrounding Rocky Mountains, and the legacy of the Olympic venues, including the Olympic Ski Jump Tower.

Visitor Information

Location: Canada Olympic Park is located at 88 Canada Olympic Road NW, Calgary, Alberta. It is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site.

Hours of Operation: The park is open year-round, with seasonal hours depending on the activity. It’s best to check ahead of your visit for specific hours, especially if you're planning to participate in activities like skiing or bobsleigh.

Admission: There are varying costs for different activities at COP. While entrance to the park is free, specific activities like skiing, ziplining, and mountain biking may require tickets or a pass. WinSport memberships and day passes are also available.

Family-Friendly: Canada Olympic Park is very family-friendly, with activities and facilities for visitors of all ages, from the youngest children to adults looking for adventure and recreation.

Special Events and Festivals

Canada Olympic Park hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including:

Winter Festivals: During the winter months, the park hosts special events like winter carnivals, ice skating competitions, and festive celebrations.

Canada Day Celebrations: COP is a popular spot for Canada Day festivities, with fireworks, live entertainment, and outdoor activities for the whole family.

Sporting Events: The park hosts national and international sporting competitions, including bobsleigh, skiing, and snowboarding events. These competitions often bring world-class athletes to Calgary, making it a great destination for sports fans.

Conclusion

Canada Olympic Park is a must-visit destination in Calgary, offering a unique blend of history, sports, and recreation. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes in winter, try the zipline in summer, or explore the legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics, the park offers something for everyone. It is a great place for families, sports enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring one of Calgary’s most iconic landmarks.