At a time when community stakeholders care more about the environment than ever before, a newly updated Green Communities Guide from Canada's Land Stewardship Centre highlights the environmental, economic and health benefits in nature-based solutions (NBS).

For those who enjoy being surrounded by nature and other green spaces, the communities of Beddington Heights and Huntington Hills might be just the ticket.

Nose Hill Park looms large over Calgary's northwest – an expanse of unspoiled grassland enveloped by the vastness of an ever-evolving city. Nearly unchanged from the days when herds of buffalo roamed the Prairies, the park now serves as a stomping ground for the herds of Calgarians that jog, walk and bike their way around its 300 kilometres of trails every day.

Ask anyone who lives across a broad swath of south Calgary for their favourite spot to go for a walk, jog or leisurely bike ride, and the No. 1 answer is bound to be Fish Creek Park.

As anyone who has recently spent time in any of the city's 8,000 hectares of green space can attest, Calgarians are eager to get outside.

Driven by the long-awaited arrival of summer and the need for closer-to-home recreation options due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the popularity of Calgary's parks is on the rise.

For many residents of apartment-style condo buildings, a balcony offers a small, private slice of the outdoors – a place to kick back with a book, sip your morning coffee, catch a few rays, or enjoy an al fresco meal or cocktail.

In recent months, the widespread adoption of social distancing and self-isolation to combat COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of private outdoor spaces. For those who have them, balconies and backyards provide a crucial refuge – a safe space to get some fresh air while avoiding contact with other people.

The new southwest community of Hudson in Creekstone makes the most of its spectacular setting – perched on a ridge overlooking the Pine Creek coulee with the Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Dennis Inglis, development manager with Highfield Land Management, says the community's location alongside a protected reserve means its scenic surroundings are here to stay, unlike some new communities where development eventually encroaches on natural lands.

If you think year-round outdoor living is out of reach for Calgarians, you haven't paid a visit to the new community of Rockland Park.

As northwest Calgary's first master-planned community in more than 10 years, Rockland Park draws on open spaces, well-tended parks, and a network of trails and pathways to craft a four-season recreation hub.

Amenities and stunning natural beauty are continuing to draw both recreational and full-time buyers to Canmore, despite struggling real estate markets across the rest of province.

The city of Calgary is home to more than 1,000 playgrounds that families can choose from for a fun-filled outing.

"What I love most about Calgary is there are so many options here," said Dana Wheatley, founder of Calgary Playground Review and mom to three children.