From the Badlands to big city parks, Wild Rose Country has plenty of magical destinations worth visiting in the summertime, but the mountains are among the best – especially when temperatures exceed 30°C.

When it gets too hot to handle, go for a dip, take a deep breath and appreciate the view from one of these Alberta beaches or swimming holes.

Quarry Lake

Canmore is a gift, but in the warmer months consider Quarry Lake – located just outside the beloved town. This gorgeous spot has some incredible views and a ton of space to enjoy a picnic by the water! Enjoy.

Where: Directions here

Lake Edith 

Feeling brave? Jasper’s Edith Beach has pretty chilly water but is totally worth the visit if you appreciate a dip with a view. Surrounded by the peaks and valleys of the Rockies, this place is absolutely breathtaking.

Where: Directions here

Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake is cold, but it’s a must-visit in the summertime. Go for a dip, swim around, and enjoy the view – but don’t dive in! Parks Canada does not recommend jumping from any overhanging rocks due to its deceivingly shallow pockets of water.

Where: Directions here

Lake Annette 

Lake Annette has a quiet sandy beach, crystal clear water, a beautiful grassy area perfect for having a picnic or reading a book, and a beautiful view of the mountains.

Where: Directions here

Johnson Lake

Photo via Shutterstock

Johnson Lake is a beautiful spot nestled among some of the oldest Douglas fir trees in Alberta. Here, you can go canoeing, have a picnic, or go swimming!

Where: Directions here

Pyramid Lake

Located in Jasper National Park, Pyramid Lake has a beautiful sandy beach with grills, picnic tables, and a dock. The best part? The incredible view of the namesake mountain.

Where: Directions here

There you have it, folks. Alberta beaches and swimming holes with a beautiful mountain view. It’s going to be a long hot summer!

Cassandra Stefanic

Regional Editor, Prairies –Cassandra is a Calgary-based journalist with a deep appreciation for music, film, food, travelling, and storytelling. When she’s not chasing a story, writing, or editing, you’ll likely find her in the mountains, binge-watching a new series, at a speakeasy, cooking, or getting lost in a Taylor Swift re-record.

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