By Leo Chen, Volunteer Writer
Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Calgary is a vibrant, fast-growing city that blends urban sophistication with outdoor adventure. Known for its stunning landscapes, booming economy, and welcoming community, Calgary offers something for everyone.
Interested in exploring the city? This guide will break down the basics of Calgary’s public transit system, ensuring you have a smooth, stress-free, and green travel experience!
CTrain
The CTrain has operated in Calgary since 1981, running two lines:
- Red Line: Extends from Tuscany Station (Northwest) to Somerset-Bridlewood Station (South).
- Blue Line: Runs from Saddletowne Station (Northeast) to 69 Street Station (West).
Trains typically run from 4:00am to 1:30am (depending on day, station, and line), with frequencies varying based on time and day. For a complete list of bus and train schedules, click here.
Both lines also pass through the TD Free Fare Zone, where traveling is free of charge! This zone is in effect at the following stations: Downtown West Kerby, City Hall/Bow Valley College, Centre Street, 1 Street, 4 Street, 7 Street, 3 Street, 6 Street, 8 Street.
Fun fact: The CTrain is the only light rail system in North America that is powered by 100% wind electricity! Click here to learn more about their environmental commitments.
Bus Routes
Calgary’s bus network complements the CTrain, covering areas beyond the red and blue line. The system includes 5 MAX rapid bus routes, which are designed to be more comfortable, convenient, and connected:
- MAX Purple: East Hills to City Centre station
- MAX Orange: Brentwood to Saddletowne station
- MAX Teal: Westbrook to Douglas Glenn station
- MAX Yellow: City Centre to Woodpark station
- MAX Green: North Pointe to City Centre station
They also provide 160+ regular routes throughout the city, operating from 5:00am to midnight (depending on route, day, and time). For specific schedules and departure times, click here. Alternatively, you can use Calgary Transit’s trip planner or transit app to plan ahead and track your ride.
Planning to use the bus and CTrain? Click here to view the entire system map. To see specific station or terminal maps, click here.
Furthermore, various bus companies such as Red Arrow & FlixBus provide intercity bus services to various regions nearby Calgary, such as Calgary Airport, Red Deer, Banff, Edmonton, and Lethbridge. On-It Regional Transit also provides scheduled bus service to commuter towns (Cochrane, Okotoks, Banff, and Canmore) surrounding Calgary.
Accessibility
Calgary Transit is dedicated to ensuring accessibility for all passengers. Both buses and trains are designed with ramps and low-floors, facilitating easy boarding for individuals with mobility challenges. They also have designated spaces for wheelchairs and strollers, as well as priority seating. Furthermore, all CTrain stations are equipped with ramps, elevators, or are ground-floor accessible.
Additionally, their On Demand program serves neighbourhoods that do not have fixed bus routes due to their limited population. On Demand vehicles pick up/drop off travelers from any location to nearby grocery stores, commercial areas, and transit hubs for the same price as a regular bus fare. This service is provided in:
- Carrington, Livingston, and Ambleton
- Glacier Ridge and Sage Hill
- Ricardo Ranch, Seton, and Rangeview
- Pine Creek, Belmont, and Yorkville
- University of Calgary’s Spy Hill Campus and Calgary Police Services Spy Hill Locations
To use On Demand, you must pre-book your trip through the app or by calling 403-262-1000. It is recommended to book your trip 45 minutes in advance.
Fares and Payment
Calgary Transit offers single-use tickets, which are valid for 90 minutes and cover transfers between buses and CTrains. Fare pricing is offered to adults (18+) and youth (13-17 years), while children under 12 can ride for free.
For frequent travelers, day and monthly passes are available, providing unlimited rides within those periods. Calgary Transit also offers a Weekend Group Day Pass, a Low Income Monthly Pass, and two annual transit passes. For more information, click here.
You can purchase your fare at a Customer Service Centre, City Hall Cashiers (only cash or debit), the My Fare app, the Transit app, the Calgary Transit estore or at select convenience and grocery stores (look for a sign indicating they sell Calgary Transit fare products). Additionally, all CTrain stations have ticket vending machines that accept coins, credit, or debit. Click here for more information.
Active Transportation in Calgary
Want to combine biking with public transit? Buses have front-mounted racks and bicycles are welcome on all CTrains. Click here for instructions on how to unload/offload your bike, and here to read the rules for bringing your bike on the CTrain.
Additionally, numerous stations are equipped with racks to park your bike. For extra security, 14 stations have bike lockers for rent. For more information, click here.
Beyond public transit, Calgary boasts an active transportation network, promoting walking, cycling, and other non-motorized modes of travel. The city maintains approximately 1,000 km of multi-use pathways, 96 km trails, and 290 km of on-street bikeways, making it one of North America’s most extensive networks. These pathways connect various areas, providing safe and scenic routes.
This includes the Plus15 network, which spans 16 km of elevated, weather-protected, and climate controlled walkways, connecting numerous downtown buildings.
Embracing Calgary’s public transit and active transportation options will enrich your experience and help you feel at home in no time. Start planning your route and touring the city’s attractions today.
Photo Credits
- https://www.calgarytransit.com/content/dam/transit/rider-information/CTrain%20Map%202023.pdf
- https://www.calgary.ca/bike-walk-roll/plus-15-network.html
