Nature and survival programs
Nature and survival programs
Learn about the wonders of nature in Calgary’s parks and open spaces. Our outdoor programs introduce participants to birdwatching, hiking, outdoor survival skills, and plant and animal identification. The skills learned will prepare you for a lifetime of enjoying the outdoors anywhere.
Benefits of nature and survival programs
- Independence
- Resiliency
- Curiosity
- Communication, problem solving and decision-making skills
- Good stewardship habits
- Ecoliteracy
- Pride in our parks and natural spaces
- A sense of identity and community
Spring & summer registration dates
- 6 a.m. — Online (virtual waiting room opens at 5:30 a.m.)
- 8:30 a.m. — By calling the Customer Service Centre at 403-268-3800 (option 1)
- During business hours — At any City-operated Aquatic & Recreation or Arts facility
Types of nature and survival programs
You can register online or by calling 403-268-3800.
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Out birdwatching courses will introduce you to some of the 270+ species of birds that call Calgary home. They include visits to some of Calgary’s natural areas and are led by birding experts.
Ages: 7+ years
Prerequisite: None
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In this single class, you will be introduced to a variety of basic skills and strokes needed for canoeing. This program is held outdoors on the South Glenmore Reservoir. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 18+
Prerequisite: None
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In this single class, kids will learn a variety of skills and strokes needed for canoeing. This program is held outdoors on the South Glenmore Reservoir. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 9 – 12 years
Prerequisite: None
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In this single class, you and your kid will work together to learn basic canoeing skills and strokes. You will be in a canoe together. This program is held outdoors on the South Glenmore Reservoir. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 6 – 17 years + adult
Prerequisite: Children must be accompanied by an adult
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You and your toddler will explore nature together through a variety of outdoor walks, play and songs. This program is held outdoors. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 1 –3 years + adult
Prerequisite: None
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Kids will take part in spring nature activities and survival skills. They may learn the names of some bugs and plants, fire and shelter building, s'more making and archery. This program is held outdoors. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 5 -12 years
Prerequisite: None
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Campers will be introduced to a variety of nature education and survival skills. Camp activities can include shelter and fire building, s'more making, animal track identification and sports. This program is held outdoors. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 5 -12 years
Prerequisite: None
About our nature and survival program Instructors
Staff are certified in Intermediate First Aid and CPR, High Five® Principles of Healthy Child Development, and receive additional City of Calgary training.
What are nature and survival programs like?
Filled with activities that will help your child learn more about themselves, others and the world around them. Depending on the program, your child can expect to:
- Explore in an outdoor setting.
- Learn about natural habitats.
- Identify plant and animal species.
- Develop skills in things like, birdwatching, shelter building, map reading, orienteering, fire building and archery.
Programs are typically 2 hours long.
Come prepared
- A refillable plastic or metal water bottle.
- Any necessary medication or medical equipment (such as an epi-pen).
- A light snack (nut free).
- A backpack/bag.
- Weather-appropriate clothing like gloves, hats, boots, footwear, sweater/jacket, etc.
