Sunset chasing in Calgary: the best places to watch the sky turn pink
Anais Loeppky, Contributor
Calgary is known as the “Blue Sky City,” which seems like a perfect fit considering our skies are total show-offs.
They don’t just stop at blue—each morning and evening, they turn to a mix of pink, orange, purple, and gold, like nature’s version of a highlight reel. Everyone always talks about the mountains when it comes to Alberta’s beauty, but honestly, the sunsets here deserve their own moment.
If you’ve ever seen one of those nights where the whole sky glows and your camera roll ends up full of the same photo from five slightly different angles, you know what I mean. And if you haven’t yet, it’s time to change that.
Catching a Calgary sunset is one of those everyday luxuries that never gets old. It’s completely free, and it never disappoints. At the end of a long day, find a place to wind down and watch the city glow—here are a few of the best spots to watch the sun go down in Calgary.
Scotsman’s Hill
If you’re after that Instagrammable skyline, Scotsman’s Hill is the place.
Here, you can see the sun drop right behind downtown, while the Saddledome and towers glow like a scene in a movie—this spot is a photographer’s dream.
When the moment is right, the light refracts and shimmers off the towers, with an extraordinarily pigmented sky behind them. Bring your camera, or a blanket and some takeout, and let the skyline handle the rest.
Nose Hill Park
Nose Hill is for when you want to escape the city without actually leaving it.
It spans an endless 11 km, so you can always find your own little corner to claim. The views stretch from the city skyline all the way to the mountains, and when the sun starts to dip, the whole sky turns into a cotton-candy haze.
It’s the perfect way to switch up your night out, and take in one of the best experiences the city has to offer. There is a tranquil hush to it in the evenings that simply can’t be beat.
McHugh Bluff
McHugh Bluff might not be the most famous park in the city, but locals know it’s a total gem.
It’s tucked just far enough away from downtown to feel calm, but it still gives you one of the best views of the city. When the sun hits the glass buildings just right, everything turns gold and the Bow River starts to sparkle.
With a coffee in hand, wander down the curving paths and soak up the picturesque view . It’s got that perfect mix of city energy and golden-hour romance.
Prince’s Island Park
Prince’s Island Park is where the city really comes alive. It’s right downtown, but somehow it feels like its own little world.
The way the tree branches drape over the paths is truly enchanting. The island is so vibrant with groups of friends and family, it really has that fun, social energy that makes it such a special place. As the sun sets, the river glows pink and orange, music drifts from nearby patios, and it all just feels so Calgary.
Grab a warm drink from a nearby café, and take a walk across the bridge—the vibe is unmatched.
Signal Hill
If mountains are more your thing, Signal Hill is your go-to.
Out on the west side, you can watch the Rockies turn gold as the sun sets behind them with no city in sight. There are spots to park and stay cozy in your car—let’s be real, Calgary evenings can get cold fast.
It’s simple, quiet, and ridiculously pretty—like a mini road trip without actually leaving the city. If you are really lucky, you may even be able to catch some northern lights a few nights of the year.
Sandy Beach Park
Sandy Beach Park gives total laid-back summer energy, just like its name.
Unwind to the calming sounds of the river running past you. When the sun sets, the trees light up and the pink sky reflects on the water—it truly is gorgeous.
It’s one of those places where you end up staying way longer than you planned because it’s just that relaxing.
There’s something about Calgary sunsets that never gets old. They make the city feel a little softer, a little warmer, and a lot more magical.
Maybe it’s the big open skies, or just that reminder to stop and look up once in a while. Either way, when the sky starts to glow—take a moment to appreciate it.
Regardless of where you are watching from, it’s one of those small moments that make you realize how lucky we are to live here.
