Summer 2023 is hot on our heels and it’s only a matter of time until every other weekend calls for a weenie roast and an afternoon swim. The best place to cool off? Well, that’s under the water of course! From not-so-secret spots to lesser-known pools – here are some of the most refreshing swimming holes near Calgary!
QUARRY LAKE
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What’s not to love about Canmore? The trees, the food, the mountains – the swimming holes? Quarry Lake is a gorgeous little spot in Calgary’s neighbouring mountain town with the most beautiful mountain view.. just watch for bears. They’re known to show up from time to time.
Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 105 km
GRIFFITH WOODS
Taking a walk around Griffith Woods? Bring a swimsuit! Whether you go for the day or just to cool down, this is a fantastic spot to check out on a hotter day. It’s quiet (because it’s practically unknown by those who don’t live in the area), it’s relatively pretty clean and it’s actually gorgeous despite it being within city limits. Check it out!
Where: 160 Discovery Ridge Blvd SW, Calgary
Distance from Calgary: 0 km
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JOHNSON LAKE
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Alright, now, we’re not going to lie, this one is a bit chilly, but we promise you that on an extra hot day, it’ll be totally worth the dive! Not interested in taking a dip? It’s also a great place to have a picnic or go canoeing.
Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 130 km
PEARCE ESTATE PARK
Rock beaches have a bad rep, but we promise this one is worth visiting. Located IN Calgary city limits, Pearce Estate Park actually has a few little spots where slower water has pooled just enough to cool off on a hot day. Can you get in a full backstroke? Not really no, but it’s close, it’s fun and it’s the Bow!
Where: 1440 17A Street SE, Calgary
Distance from Calgary: 0 km
FORGET ME NOT POND
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This sunny season, one of the places to be when that heatwave hits will be Forgetmenot Pond. While it’s damn near freezing – this water is as blue as it gets so it’s definitely worth checking out!
Where: AB-66, Bragg Creek – Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 76.6 km
SANDY BEACH
Sandy Beach is one of Calgary’s most popular natural ‘beaches’ (if you want to call it that). Though it certainly doesn’t precede its name, it is still a really great place to go on a hotter day. Bring the dog, the kids, a few snacks, and/or your friends and you’ve got it made!
Where: 4500 14a St SW, Calgary
Distance from Calgary: 0 km
CASTLE FALLS
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Castle Falls is another super cold spot – but it’s abso-freaking-lutely worth checking out. This summer grab an inner tube, some sunscreen, and a towel, then check out one of the most beautiful places (maybe in the whole province). You won’t regret it!
Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 238 km
There you have it, folks. The most refreshing swimming holes near Calgary. Check them out and tag us in all of your fun summer photos! It’s going to be a hot one!
