7 of the best lakes near Calgary to swim in this summer
Summer days are best spent lounging by the water, slathered in sunscreen. While Calgary is known for its epic hiking and sunny weather, locals know that lakes to swim in are a little harder to come by.
While glacier lakes abound in the mountains, we understand if you’re not willing to sacrifice your toes for the sake of a summer swim. We double checked these ones, and while we can’t promise the balmy waters of the tropics, you can confidently swim at these lakes and keep all your extremities. Probably.
Here are some of the best lakes near the city to take a dip when temperatures rise.
Chestermere Lake
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Located in the nearby city of Chestermere, this lake is probably the easiest to get to from Calgary. The thing is, everyone else knows it too, so it’s best to get here early if you’re planning a lake day. The 4.8 km long lake has a dedicated sandy beach with ample space to lounge and build sand castles, as well as a sectioned off area for swimming. The lake also allows motorized and non-motorized watercraft, so it’s a one-stop shop for all your favourite water spots in the summer.
Distance from Calgary: 24.5 km
Ghost Lake
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Ghost Lake is less than an hour from Calgary and a popular spot for boating, sailing, and paddleboarding. There are several points off of Bow Valley Trail from which to access the water, and while it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day, the shoreline is pretty rocky, so be careful where you step.
Distance from Calgary: 71.6 km
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Barrier Lake
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If Ghost Lake is too crowded, you can continue a little further until Barrier Lake. Located in picturesque Kananaskis, this lake is man-made but glacially fed. While you can expect the water to have some bite, it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day or enjoy some serene paddleboarding, kayaking, and stunning mountain ambiance.
Distance from Calgary: 86.4 km
Quarry Lake
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About an hour’s drive from Calgary, you’ll find the local favourite, Quarry Lake. It’s known as the warmest mountain lake in the area, with a sandy beach at the shallow end that’s great for families with small children. It’s also a great place to hone your paddleboarding skills. If you don’t have your own, you can pick up some rentals at Bow Valley SUP & Surf in Canmore.
Distance from Calgary: 105 km
Johnson Lake
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Not too far from Banff and about an hour-and-a-half west of Calgary is Johnson Lake, home to Banff’s only beach! This spot is great for swimmers thanks to its gentle shoreline and sandy bottom. While considered one of the warmer lakes in the area, it’s still a little chilly, so save this one for a hot day.
Distance from Calgary: 130 km
Sylvan Lake
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If you don’t mind a bit of a drive, head towards Red Deer and stop to enjoy the sparkling waters of Sylvan Lake. Less than a two-hour drive, this place is more than worth it if you’re really dying for a lake day. Enjoy the expansive beachfront complete with everything from grassy parks, walking trails, a beach boardwalk, beachside shops, along with a marina and boat launch.
Distance from Calgary: 154 km
Gull Lake
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In the same direction and still within a two-hour drive from Calgary, you’ll find Gull Lake. This lake offers a few different swimming areas and beaches, but the best is definitely Sandy Point if you’re looking for sun, sand, and pristine water. Take a dip, build a sandcastle, and work on your tan. What could be better?
Distance from Calgary: 183 km
Do you have any favourite swimming spots near the city? Let us know in the comments below.