Best Lakes Near Calgary
Quarry Lake
Just over an hour drive from Calgary you’ll find Quarry Lake, locally known as the warmest mountain lake in the area. The sandy beach at the shallow end of Quarry Lake is great for kids to play in, while the deeper parts are over 100 feet. The lake is also a popular spot for paddle boarders and you can rent paddle boards from Bow Valley SUP & Surf and pick up them up in Canmore.
Features:
- Sandy beach
- Picnic area
- Swimming (depending on temperature)
- Paddleboarding
- Nearby walking trails
Local Tip: The Canmore Nordic Centre disc golf course is only a 3 minute drive from Quarry Lake and free to use.
Chestermere Lake
Chestermere Lake is a beautiful, 4.8 km long lake that offers a range of activities to help you cool down on hot summer days. Buoys are placed near Anniversary Park and John Peake Park that mark shoreline areas where you can enjoy a comfortable swim. Chestermere Lake also welcomes motorized boats, and you can expect to see several wakeboarders skimming across the water on any given day. You can also use non-motorized boats such as canoes, kayaks, sailboats & paddleboards.
Features:
- Boat launch
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing
- Picnic area
- Motorized boating
- Sandy beach
- Swimming
Local Tip: Book rentals right on the lake at Hyperactive Watersports.
Barrier Lake
Barrier Lake, glacially fed and man-made, is a wonderful spot for paddle boats and is large enough that you can spend a whole day exploring out on the water. You can rent paddling equipment from Kananaskis Outfitters, like canoes and paddleboards. Bring your portable chairs and barbeques for a beach side picnic while you enjoy picturesque views of Kananaskis Country. The pebble ridden beach is full of perfect skipping stones, try your arm at skipping one across the lake.
Features:
- Boat launch
- Kayaking, paddloeboarding, canoeing
- Swimming (depending on temperature)
- Picnic tables
Local Tip: Hike the Prairie View Trail for a great lookout over the lake. From above, the lake takes on a breathtaking turquoise hue.