Disc Golf in Calgary: A Thriving Scene with Room to Grow
Calgary, Alberta, might be known for its Stampede, snow-capped mountains, and die-hard hockey fans, but if you know where to look, you’ll find an incredibly passionate and ever-expanding disc golf community. From dedicated public courses to premier tournaments, Calgary is quickly becoming a must-visit city for disc golfers of all skill levels.
While disc golf has been around for decades, Calgary’s scene truly started picking up steam in the early 2000s. One of the city’s longest-standing courses, Baker Park, remains the heartbeat of the community. Nestled along the Bow River, Baker Park offers a mix of open fairways and technical wooded shots, making it a staple for both casual rounds and competitive play.
Over the years, the city has seen a surge in new courses, each bringing unique challenges. Thorncliffe/Hidden Valley serves as a great beginner-friendly option, while Forest Lawn provides tight fairways and elevation changes that test even the most seasoned throwers. More recently, St. Mary’s University introduced a new course, adding another layer of variety for Calgary’s disc golfers.
Calgary is home to some of the biggest disc golf tournaments in Alberta. The Alberta Open, held annually, attracts top talent from across the province and beyond. The Limber Open set a city record for the largest tournament ever held in Calgary, featuring a unique temporary course at Elliston Park. Meanwhile, the EmBee Open has become a highlight event, drawing players from all over Western Canada.
The city’s leagues also offer fantastic opportunities for regular play. Weekly leagues at Baker Park and other courses provide a mix of casual and competitive atmospheres, welcoming players of all levels. The Calgary Disc Golf Club (CDGC) has been instrumental in organizing events and advocating for more disc golf infrastructure across the city.
Despite the city’s strong disc golf culture, demand is outpacing supply. With the sport’s rapid growth, existing courses are often packed, and new courses are needed to accommodate Calgary’s expanding player base. Advocates are pushing for more permanent courses, particularly in underutilized green spaces across the city. The success of pop-up courses, like the one at Elliston Park, has demonstrated the potential for further expansion.
For those new to the city or visiting for a weekend, here are some must-play courses:
With increasing player numbers, strong community support, and growing advocacy for new courses, Calgary’s disc golf future looks incredibly bright. More courses will mean more opportunities for new players to get involved and for competitive players to hone their skills. If Calgary continues on its current trajectory, it could soon rival some of Canada’s best disc golf cities.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up a disc for the first time, Calgary has something to offer. With vibrant leagues, exciting tournaments, and a passionate community, there’s never been a better time to get involved in Calgary disc golf. So grab your bag, hit the course, and let the chains sing!
