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Outdoor Nature & Survival

Register for Outdoor Nature & Survival Programs

Nature and Survival Programs introduce participants to Calgary’s natural spaces, teaching skills such as birdwatching, shelter building, and plant/animal identification. These outdoor sessions foster environmental awareness, self-reliance, and a lifelong appreciation for nature. Led by knowledgeable instructors, participants explore habitats and develop practical survival skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Come prepared with the following:

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Medication (e.g., epi-pen)
  • Nut-free snack
  • Backpack
  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Birdwatching class & walk - parent & kid


You and your kid will learn the unique sounds, shapes and colours of local birds through an indoor presentation and outdoor walk. You will be introduced to basic birdwatching skills and how to use binoculars. Please dress for the weather.

Age: 5 - 12 years + adult

Birdwatching class & walk - teens & adults


Gain an understanding of the unique features of local birds through an indoor classroom presentation and outdoor birdwatching walk. Please dress for the weather as this course is outdoors.This class is intended for beginner birdwatchers.

Age: 14+

Birdwatching walk - teens & adults


On this outdoor birdwatching walk, you will observe wild birds in their natural habitat, learn about bird behaviour and Calgary's unique ecosystems. Please dress for the weather as this course is outdoors. Each offering of this course takes place at a different park around Calgary so it can be taken multiple times.

Age: 14+

Canoeing: beginner - kids


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

Canoeing: beginner - parent + kid/teen


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

Nature & survival skills: spring - kids


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

Nature skills - parent & toddler


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

Nature skills - preschooler


Preschoolers 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: 3 – 4 years

Outdoor adventures: PD day camp - kids


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

Outdoor adventures: summer day camp - kids


Campers who enjoy the outdoors will be introduced to a variety of sports, nature education and outdoor survival skills in this week-long summer camp. Camp activities may include special guest visits and water activities.

Age: 8 - 12 years