Photo via Alberta River Surfing Association
When those hot summer days inevitably roll around, nothing feels better than migrating to the water. Whether swimming, paddling, boating, or lounging on the shore, the coolness of rivers and lakes is a welcome relief.
Best of all, you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy a waterfront afternoon. Here are six spots in Calgary to cool off this summer.
Rent a paddleboat or canoe and take to the Bowness Park Lagoon. Although you can’t swim there, the wading pool at the east end of the park is a great option to cool off, and there are multiple access points to the Bow River throughout.
Where: 8900 48th Ave. NW
Located on the Elbow River, the Glenmore Reservoir is a popular spot for canoeing and sailing. Rent a boat, or kick things up a notch by registering for lessons at the onsite Glenmore Sailing School.
Where: Multiple launch points
This river park in the heart of Calgary was redesigned to give locals a safer and more enjoyable experience. The small rapids make it feel like nature’s own water park, and the shore is a fantastic spot for people-watching.
Where: 1440 17a St. SE
Along with access to the river, this southwest beach also offers picnic areas, firepits and barbeque stands, and inclusive playgrounds. The 50th Avenue entrance is currently closed, but you can still access the area via River Park and the Sandy Beach footbridge.
Where: 1411 50th Ave. SW
This man-made beach in south Calgary is great for families and is open to the public from June to September. Whether you’re swimming in the deep end, going for a shallow float, or making sandcastles on the beach, fun in the sun is all but guaranteed.
Where: 22 Sikome Cir. SE
Cost: $5 to $19
Paddling down the Bow River is a rite of passage for Calgarians, and The Paddle Station provides a launching station with everything you need to have a fulfilling, safe time. We’re talking a prepped, inflated raft, lifejackets, and a mandatory safety talk. Then, the beautiful Bow is yours to explore!
Where: 5227 13th Ave. NW
Cost: $79+
These spots don’t have on-duty lifeguards, so please exercise caution wherever your adventures take you. Check out the full river access map online.
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