Experience Canada Olympic Park: Ultimate Fun in Calgary, Alberta

Bobsleigh, Zip Line, and Luge Oh my! Yes, you can have all these adventures at Calgary’s Canada Olympic Park! Calgary, Alberta was home to the 1988 Winter Olympics.

Millions of people looked on as Canada’s most beautiful province was introduced to the world and it didn’t disappoint. Home to the Rocky Mountains, the Badlands and the rolling foothills of Cowboy Country, Alberta really showed us what it’s got.

10 Activities at Canada Olympic Park

Calgary has kept the Olympic spirit alive even three decades later. Just a short drive from Calgary, Olympic Park is a fantastic way to spend a day trying thrilling activities and family adventures.

Winsport Canada Olympic Park still has the giant ski jumps and the bobsleigh track is operational. It serves as an Olympic training facility for ski jumping and bobsledding, allowing tourists and visitors the chance to try them out.

1. Zipline the Monster

The Calgary zip line is known as the steepest and fastest in North America! You start by jumping off the top of the ski jump, soaring right above the ramp!

About the Zipline at Canada Olympic Park

Reaching speeds of 140km per hour, prepare for an exhilarating experience as you approach the bottom and process the sudden deceleration.

We took the elevator to the top of the jump at a height of 110 meters (360 feet) and were greeted with breathtaking views. However, if you have any fear of heights, this may not be where you want to find yourself.

The top of the ski jump provides the highest viewpoint in all of Calgary. This line is 510 meters long (1673 feet) and the rush was so thrilling it momentarily took my breath away.

In just seconds, I was whizzing at top speed. I needed to maintain focus as I had to release my parachute just before the tower. Instantly, I felt the deceleration. Our last zip line took us to the ground, and for this, they encouraged us to hang upside down, which we eagerly did.

2. Freefall

If any of this sounds too mild for your taste, give the Freefall a shot. It’s akin to a bunny jump, but unique in its own right—a freefall from 8 stories high leading to a gentle descent to the ground. Interestingly, you’re offered two jumps, adding to the thrill!

3. The Bobsleigh

Calgary boasts one of the few bobsled training centers in the world, attracting teams globally for training. Amazingly, the bobsleigh track is accessible to the public.

Our driver, Heath Spence, competed in the 2014 Olympics for Australia. He tirelessly takes tourists down the track before spending his evenings training.

How Does it Feel to Ride a Bobsleigh Track?

After one run down the track, both Dave and I felt a bit dizzy, astonished at how Heath manages to do multiple runs without feeling woozy. The ride jolts your body, making it a wild experience.

However, athletes handle this better, with every muscle stabilizing their form throughout the ride.

In Calgary, you experience the entirety of the bobsleigh run from top to bottom, and it felt like it was never ending, twisting through bank after bank. We encountered the force of 3Gs, feeling the twists and turns at high speeds. The Bobsleigh operates year-round, both summer and winter.

4. Winsport Olympic Park Luge

Our next adventure at Canada Olympic Park was the luge. Do not worry, this isn’t the Olympic luge; it resembles a go-cart ride downhill, making it fun for the entire family!

This activity was a delightful way to conclude the day, offering us the flexibility to go fast or slow. We enjoyed a leisurely trip down the track as well as some thrilling runs, both full-speed and relaxed.

The experience reminded us of the Jamaican bobsled in Jamaica, which is amusing since the legendary Jamaican Bobsled team debuted during the 1988 Calgary Olympics, garnering fame that inspired the movie Cool Runnings.

5. Mini Golf

If you’re looking for family-friendly activities, Canada Olympic Park also features an 18-hole mini-golf course during summer. It boasts stunning views of the Canadian Rockies and is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with kids.

6. Mountain Biking

For trail enthusiasts, mountain biking is available at Olympic Park in summer. You can utilize the chairlift to ascend to the top and explore 11 trails. Both serious downhill and easier beginner trails are on offer, making it an excellent opportunity to try mountain biking without the challenging uphill trek.

7. Scenic Chairlift

If you simply want breathtaking views of Calgary, Winsport allows visitors to ride the chairlift. This option is accessible for all ages and a perfect choice for those who prefer less intense activities.

8. Canada Sports Hall of Fame

A visit to Canada Olympic Park combines history with adventure. While there, make sure to visit the Sports Hall of Fame, adding a rich educational aspect to your trip.

Canada Olympic Park in Winter

We experienced Olympic Park in summer, but winter is when it truly flourishes, being the venue for the Winter Olympics. There are plenty of winter activities to enjoy!

9. Snowboarding and Skiing

Located conveniently close to Calgary, skiing or snowboarding is an excellent choice. The park features two chairlifts and 4km of slopes reaching an elevation of 1,246 m. Plus, it includes a world-class superpipe.

10. Snowtubing

If skiing seems too extreme, consider snowtubing. No skill is necessary; all you need to do is sit on a tube and allow gravity to do the rest!

11. Ice Skating

While visiting Canada, don’t miss out on experiencing our beloved national sport, hockey! While you don’t have to play, you should definitely try ice skating at Winsport Canada Park, which offers public skating sessions in a safe indoor rink with helmets mandatory for all participants.

Winsport Canada Olympic Park is just a short drive from Calgary. Visit their website, Winsport Canada, for more details.