Rehabilitation of the Douglas-fir trail in Edworthy Park is set to begin

The Douglas-Fir Trail in Calgary's Edworthy Park is set to undergo significant rehabilitation work to address safety concerns and erosion issues. This trail, which has been closed to the public since November 2023 due to its unsafe and eroded state, is particularly known for its "drunken forest" section where trees lean at unusual angles due to the instability of the slope. The city has recognized the need for slope reconstruction since 2019, and the project is now moving forward with the closure of a portion of the adjacent dirt parking lot.

The parking area will be closed for approximately 16 months to serve as a staging area for construction crews. This closure is essential for the safety of both the workers and the public. The rehabilitation work involves stabilizing the slope and repairing the trail, which runs along a 200-foot escarpment. The project is set to begin once all necessary approvals are in place and is expected to be completed by mid-October 2026.

The trail's vulnerability is attributed to factors such as water from natural springs and drainage from nearby communities, which have contributed to the erosion. The city is finalizing an agreement with the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway (CPKCR), as part of the work will be conducted on their land.

The popular 2.5-kilometre hiking path has been affected by the continued movement of the slope, known as "creeping," which has caused trees to lean dangerously and even resulted in a major slide that left a noticeable mark on the landscape. The rehabilitation efforts aim to restore the integrity of the trail and ensure its long-term sustainability for future generations to enjoy.

While the closure may be inconvenient for some park-goers, it is a critical step in preserving the natural beauty and safety of the area. Once completed, the trail will be reopened, providing Calgarians with improved access to the picturesque "drunken forest" and its unique ecosystem. The city is investing in the necessary infrastructure to prevent further degradation and ensure that the trail can be used safely for many years to come.