Travel the city’s urban pathways, urges parks foundation

Want to take in the beauty of Calgary, visit all four quadrants of the city and win prizes while you’re doing it?

Parks Foundation Calgary has launched Summer Challenge, of Canada 150. They are challenging Calgarians to walk, run, cycle or in-line skate 150 kilometres using the Rotary/ Mattamy Greenway.

The Greenway is a 138 km network of paths and bikeways that circles the entire city. The greenway can be used year-round and is expected to be fully completed by the end of 2017.

Areas of the city still under construction include the path joining the northwest and northeast quadrants. There is also a wetland area in the southeast which will be completed in the winter when the water is frozen.

Many residents are unaware that Calgary boasts the longest urban pathway and park system in the world.

The Greenway directly connects 55 communities around the city and connects to almost 1,000 kilometres of Calgary’s existing pathways. It also links parks, natural areas, green spaces, river valleys and other amenities. It can be used to commute to work or for recreation.

“Many residents are unaware that Calgary boasts the longest urban pathway and park system in the world,” said Sheila Taylor, executive director of Parks Foundation Calgary in a press release.

The Summer Challenge kicks off June 25 and runs through to August 28. People can register for free through Facebook or greenway150. com as individuals or a team where they can add up everyone’ s kilometres throughout the summer.

For those with four-legged friends, their kilometres can be added to yours.

The entire pathway does not have to be completed, just enough to reach 150 km which encourages people to get out and explore other areas of the city.

Anyone taking part can share their journey on social media, tagging Parks Foundation Calgary and using the hash tags# My Green way and #Greenway150 where they will be eligible to win weekly prizes.

Parks Foundation Calgary will also be using social media and online tools to inform people about the progress, areas to avoid, detours and suggested routes while the pathway is still under construction.

Interactive maps are available to download at green way 150.com and the Greenway is highlighted on the City of Calgary pathways and bikes app.

Summer Challenge medals and certificates will be awarded on Sept. 2 at four simultaneous events in each quadrant of the city.