The wild side of the marina
Bearspaw Reservoir is home to an incredible array of birds, wildlife, and natural beauty. Part of what makes this place special is sharing it respectfully with the creatures who live here.
Species spotlights
Western Grebes
BirdsFamous for their elegant "rushing" courtship dance across the water surface.
Ospreys
BirdsThese fish-hunting raptors can dive at speeds of up to 80 km/h.
Great Blue Herons
BirdsStanding over a metre tall, they're patient hunters along the shoreline.
Bald Eagles
BirdsOccasionally spotted soaring above the reservoir, especially in spring and fall.
White-tailed Deer
MammalsOften seen at dawn and dusk near the trails and tree line.
Beavers
MammalsLook for their lodges along the quieter edges of the reservoir.
Interactive nature map
Discover local trails, prime wildlife viewing spots, and key points of interest around Bearspaw Marina.
Tap a marker on the map to learn more
Discover what lives beneath the surface
The Bow River is one of Alberta's most celebrated waterways — known for its clear, cold waters and remarkably healthy ecosystem. Flowing near Bearspaw Marina, it supports a rich variety of fish species that have thrived here for generations. Whether you're curious about what's swimming below your paddle or simply appreciate the life that makes this river so special, there's a whole world beneath the surface worth knowing.
Brown Trout
Established SpeciesKnown for their golden-brown colouring and dark spots. A well-established species throughout the Bow River.
Rainbow Trout
CommonRecognizable by their silver body and distinctive pink stripe. Often seen in clearer, well-oxygenated sections of the river.
Cutthroat Trout
Native to AlbertaA native Alberta species identified by the red markings under their jaw. A beautiful and important part of the local ecosystem.
Mountain Whitefish
Ecosystem StapleSlender and silvery, the Mountain Whitefish is one of the most common fish in the Bow River and plays a key role in the food chain.
Respecting the River
The Bow River thrives when we treat it gently. Enjoy its beauty, take in all that lives within it, and leave it just as you found it — so others can share in the same wonder.
The landscape
The area around Bearspaw Marina is part of a rich Alberta ecosystem where prairie grasslands meet foothill forests along the Bow River watershed. The reservoir itself provides critical habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and fish.
Connected trails wind through aspen groves, open meadows, and along the water's edge — perfect for a walk, a ride, or just sitting quietly and watching the world go by.
This is a place where nature is close. Where you can hear birdsong over the sound of your paddle. Where the light changes beautifully from morning to evening.
Respecting this place
Bearspaw Marina is committed to low-impact, non-motorized recreation. Here's how we all help keep this place beautiful.
Observe from a distance
Enjoy wildlife without disturbing their natural behaviour.
Stay on trails
Protect nesting areas and fragile shoreline habitats.
Leave no trace
Take everything you bring with you. Leave only footprints.
Non-motorized only
Our quiet, non-motorized approach protects the ecosystem.
Come see for yourself
The best wildlife viewing is early morning and golden hour. Plan your visit accordingly.
Plan Your Visit