The 802 Challenge is back again every Tuesday in March 2026.

Whether you’re looking for a unique activity or taking your fitness goals to another level. There is more to see than just the view from the observation deck of the Calgary Tower.

TALLEST ART GALLERY IN THE WEST

This fun and unique activity provides more than just a great workout. The stairway landings feature murals painted by young amateur artists. They were invited as part of a project spearheaded by the Alberta Wilderness Association.

The plaques beside each art installation remind you that the Calgary Tower is the “Tallest Art Gallery in the West.“

It should take less than 20 minutes to reach the top and under 10 minutes to descend. Like most great hikes, it is worth the effort. You can climb multiple times during the event. Staff simply ask that you exercise patience with other climbers and wait for your turn to re-enter the stairwell

The stairways are open to the public as part of the 802 Challenge every Tuesday in March from 4pm-7pm. Admission is $12. Climbers must be at least 8 years old to participate. Those 17 years or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no change room, but you can hang your coat. Visit the Calgary Tower website for parking and other information by clicking the 802 Challenge.

URBAN LOOKOUTs

From the top, you get a 360-degree view of the city. Looking down, you can see the railroad tracks alongside the former Husky Tower. A reminder, this was the site of the original Canadian Pacific Railway station. The CPR also built the historic Palliser Hotel next door. It was instrumental in facilitating the development of Calgary into a thriving urban centre. 

Across the street from the Palliser Hotel is a public art installation called Emergent. Its mirrored surfaces reflect the city’s evolution. From this urban lookout, you can see the city’s first skyscraper. As the city prospered, the inspiration for more impressive and taller structures grew with the buildings. The tallest building today towers 200 metres above it in the background.

NEXT STEPS – WHERE TO GO FROM HERE

Check out our self-guides to help navigate and inform you as you explore the city. Discover the story Behind Stephen Avenue. This National Historic District demonstrates the central role that retail streets play in the urban experience. Explore the city’s Sandstone Building Legacy and vote for your favourite building.

Walking along Centre Street, the city’s success and growth are embodied in art and architecture. From another iconic public art installation – Wonderland, you see two of the tallest buildings in the city. Their construction had a significant impact on the skyline and urban landscape. Follow the link to learn more: Wonderland – Tallest Buildings

There are so many great places in Calgary to explore.

Pictured: The mural stands at an official height of 95 metres (310 ft, 9 inches). It is the world’s tallest painted mural. The Calgary Tower, 190.8-metre (626 ft), stands in the background. The mural was painted by legendary German graffiti artist @mirkoreisser (DAIM) in collaboration with @yycbump.