8 of the best outdoor activities to do in Calgary this summer
Summer in Calgary only lasts so long, so it’s worth making the most of every sunny day while you can, and luckily, Calgary is full of outdoor activities.
From river adventures to exploring scenic parks and trails, here are eight of the best outdoor activities to do in Calgary this summer.
Go hiking without leaving Calgary
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You don’t have to leave the city to find a good hiking trail in Calgary. The city is home to plenty of scenic spots where you can get some fresh air, take in some views, and explore nature. If you’re looking for some spots to go, we rounded up some of the best urban hikes in the city.
Spend the day at Sikome Aquatic Facility
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When the temperatures rise, Sikome Aquatic Facility is one of Calgary’s best spots to cool off. Located in Fish Creek Provincial Park, the popular man-made lake features a sandy beach, swimming areas, and recent upgrades that refreshed the facility for the summer.
Explore Fish Creek Provincial Park
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If swimming isn’t your thing, there is much more to check out at Fish Creek Provincial Park. Spanning over 12 square kilometres, it’s one of the largest urban parks in Canada and offers plenty to do. Visitors can walk or bike along its pathways, spot wildlife, enjoy a picnic, or simply spend the day surrounded by nature.
Catch an outdoor event or concert
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Calgary comes alive during the summer with outdoor events, live music, festivals, and community gatherings. From concerts in Prince’s Island Park to movies at the Rise on St. Patrick’s Island, there are plenty of ways to enjoy entertainment while taking in the warm weather.
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Relax in a Calgary park
Calgary Parks/Facebook
Sometimes the best summer activity is keeping things low-key. You can pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and spend an afternoon soaking up the sun at one of Calgary’s many parks. From scenic riverside spots to quiet green spaces, there are lots of places to enjoy the warm weather.
Stroll Calgary’s paths
Calgary Parks/Facebook
A nice summer stroll can make for a perfect summer day, and Calgary has no shortage of scenic pathways. Whether you’re walking along the Bow River, through a park, or just through the city, there are a bunch of routes to enjoy the outdoors at your own pace.
Float down the Bow River
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Floating down the Bow River is an iconic Calgary summer activity. Whether you’re with a group of friends or enjoying a more relaxed float, it’s a fun way to cool off while taking in awesome views of the city.
Explore the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
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For a quieter outdoor experience, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary offers a peaceful place to walk, enjoy nature, and spot local wildlife. The 36-hectare area features trails and is home to hundreds of bird species. You can even try out Calgary’s first forest bathing trail.