Take a Deep Breath: Calgary’s First Forest Bathing Trail
Calgarians now have a new way to slow down, recharge, and connect with nature. The City of Calgary Parks & Open Spaces has officially opened the Forest Bathing Trail at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary - the first of its kind in the city.
This self-guided, one-kilometer loop is designed to support health and well-being by encouraging visitors to experience the sanctuary through their senses. Inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (“forest bathing”), the trail invites people to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and feel of the forest.
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest Bathing is “bathing” in the atmosphere of the forest. The practice began in Japan in the 1980s, when rising stress and anxiety in urban centers led researchers to explore the health benefits of spending time in forested environments. Their findings showed what many instinctively know, nature is good for us.
How the Trail Works
The Forest Bathing Trail begins at a welcome sign and continues through five stations along a one-kilometer loop. At each stop, visitors can:
Scan QR codes to hear short audio invitations guiding them to connect with their surroundings.
Pick up printed invitations at the trailhead for a phone-free experience.
Borrow seat mats or tarps from the welcome sign to make time in the forest more comfortable.
The first invitation lasts a few minutes, while the others are shorter, creating space to notice the forest at your own pace. Invitations change seasonally, so every visit brings something new.
Visit the Trail
The Forest Bathing Trail at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is open now. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, spark creativity, or simply enjoy a mindful walk, this unique trail offers a fresh way to connect with Calgary’s natural beauty.