Feeling adventurous? Summer is coming in hot and so are long days spent in the sun, the sand and the water – but where will you make a splash?
From not-so-secret spots to lesser-known pools, here are just a few (very) refreshing swimming holes in Alberta.
Cowabunga!
Quarry Lake
There’s plenty to love about the town of Canmore but in the summer, one of our favourite places to visit is Quarry Lake. This gorgeous spot has some incredible views of the mountains, trees and there are a ton of space to enjoy a picnic by the water! Enjoy.
Where: Directions here
Bow Lake
This one is chilly, but if after a long hike through the mountains on an exceptionally hot day, nothing will feel as good as a cold plunge! Check it out, but don’t stay in the water for too long!
Where: Directions here
Herbert Lake
Surrounded by mountain peaks, Herbert Lake is often overlooked, but it’s a beautiful place to take a quick swim on a hot day. Don’t forget to bring a towel!
Where: Directions here
Horseshoe Lake
Bright blue water and stunning views. Horseshoe Lake is cold, but it’s a must-visit in the summertime – but please, exercise caution. While you can swim around, Parks Canada does not recommend jumping from any overhanging rocks due to its deceivingly shallow pockets of water.
Where: Directions here
Johnson Lake
At Johnson Lake, a beautiful spot nestled among some of the oldest Douglas fir trees in Alberta, go canoeing, have a picnic, or go swimming! Once temperatures exceed 30°C, there will be few places better – especially if you love the mountains!
Where: Directions here
Two Jack Lake
Love paddleboarding? Two Jack Lake in Banff, Alberta is one of the best places to do so – plus on a hotter day, you can take a dip! Bring some snacks, and you’ve got the ingredients for a perfect summer day.
Where: Directions here
Forget Me Not Pond
This sunny season, one of the places to be when that heatwave hits will be Forgetmenot Pond. It’s pretty cold (even in the summer) but this water is as blue as it gets and is definitely worth a quick dip – if you’re feeling brave!
Where: AB-66, Bragg Creek – Directions here
Lake Annette
Located in Jasper, Lake Annette is perfect for a summer’s day. Go swimming, take in the view, have a picnic, or lounge around. There’s so much to do!
Where: Directions here
Castle Falls
This summer grab an inner tube, some sunscreen, and a towel, then check out one of the beautiful, Castle Falls Recreational area. There are few places where the water is just as blue!
Where: Directions here
There you have it, folks. The most refreshing swimming holes in Alberta. Check them out and tag us in all of your fun summer photos! It’s going to be a hot one!
