Introduction
The opening of Stoney Trail in the mid-1990s made living in Calgary’s northwest more appealing, while also creating newer subdivisions like Royal Oak. The neighbourhood was founded in 1998 and has Stoney Trail as its southeastern boundary. The northeastern boundary is marked by Country Hills Boulevard and Rocky Ridge Road marks the west, where its neighbouring community of Rocky Ridge is located.
Lifestyle
Young families who love to get outdoors will enjoy life in Royal Oak. There are dozens of small storm water ponds that dot the neighbourhood. The rolling terrain provides breathtaking views of the Rockies and, being on the city’s western edge, a trip to Canmore or Banff is only minutes away. Major shopping and business services are nearby, so everything is close at hand for a family on the go.
Dollars & Sense
The chic, upscale homes and condos in Royal Oak are typical for the newer Calgary neighbourhoods that were built during the oil boom. Young professionals with disposable income enjoy being able to access the nearby Starbucks and higher-end clothing boutiques. Some big-box retailers are also expanding into the area providing even more options for shoppers.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
While access in and out of the area has improved dramatically over the past few years, Royal Oak is still a little while from downtown. Commutes can take more than half an hour during rush hour, depending on traffic. However, for those not working in the downtown core, traffic is not so bad. Once the complete ring road is finished, all areas of Calgary will be accessible from Royal Oak.
15.9 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The convenience of the Stoney Trail ring road gives Royal Oak residents easy access to other areas of the city. Crowchild Trail is a main commuter road that will get you downtown or to the University of Calgary quickly. The expansion of the LRT system to the city’s northwest also enhances transit options, as the nearby Tuscany C-Train Station opened in 2014 and features bussing and park-and-ride services.
In the Area
There are plenty of recreational options in and around Royal Oak, but that will increase even more with the projected opening of the Rocky Ridge Recreation Facility in 2017. Golfers enjoy the Bearspaw Country Club, and if you love shopping, the Royal Oak Shopping Centre and adjacent Royal Vista Business Park (including Royal Oak Park and Royal Oak Place) offer a host of restaurants, stores, professional services, and other amenities.
Meet the Neighbours
According to the 2014 civic census, a quarter of Royal Oak residents were under the age of 14. That’s a pretty big signal that young families dominate the neighbourhood. However, there are multi-unit buildings and smaller condos in the area that attract singles and seniors. Royal Oak is also an ethnically diverse neighbourhood.
The Vibe
Enjoying peaceful living away from the city is what residents love about Royal Oak. Whether it’s taking the kids to soccer practice or the family dog on a walk through the many parks and ravines, Royal Oak offers tons of outdoor activities. The nearby restaurants and shopping cater to the young professionals and families that have moved into the area.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Royal Birch View Playground
This park is a popular playground for little kids in the area. Families in the east end of the neighbourhood can enjoy the swings and a slide for the little ones.
more infoRoyal Oak Shopping Centre
This is the major shopping destination for residents in the northwest. It features restaurants, retail, grocery, banking, and other professional services. The Royal Vista Business Centre is nearby too, offering more shopping options.
more infoStoney Trail pathways
On the south side of Royal Oak is a long stretch of park space that separates homes from the Stoney Trail freeway. Stroll along the paved paths that lead to some great views.
Stormwater Ponds
There are more than a dozen small- to medium-sized ponds and man-made lakes located around Royal Oak, and most are well maintained. They are home to wildlife and a great spot for bird watching.
Royal Oak Pointe Park
This is a quaint little green space on the western edge of the neighbourhood. A paved path will take you through a magnificently landscaped area with plenty of trees to provide shade.
more infoRoyal Oak School Park
The park adjacent to the school stretches way back along Royal Birkdale Drive. There is a playground, a basketball court, and a baseball diamond. It has a paved path that winds through the open fields.