There is nothing like summer in Calgary, the sunniest major city in Canada with the longest trail network in North America. It’s the perfect time to soak up the sun, find fun things to do, and explore the great outdoors in a whole new way. Summer in Calgary can be short so start checking off your summer bucket list early. From hiking and biking to river surfing and picnics, outdoor summer adventures are ready and waiting for you in and around Calgary.
Outdoor Summer Activities in and Around Calgary


Outdoor Summer Activities in and Around Calgary
Parks in Calgary
Local Tip: Plan your route before you go with the Fish Creek Park Map and check out our complete list of the 10 Best Parks in Calgary.

Sikome Lake at Fish Creek Park in Calgary.
Hikes in Calgary
Local Tip: Gear up for your next hiking experience with the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre, with everything from hiking boots and poles to backpacking packs and gaiters.

The RiverWalk in East Village (Photo Credit: Rachel Ng)

The Glenbow Ranch is just outside Calgary on the way to the Rockies
Biking Trails in Calgary
Local Tip: Take your two wheeled tour to Bike and Brew in Bridgeland for a quick tune-up and a cup of coffee.

Biking in Calgary (Photo credit: Travel Alberta/Mike Seehagel).
Outdoor Activities for Kids
Local Tip: Take a family photo in front of the historic Jamaican bobsled at WinSport, home to the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, in front of the Frank King Day Lodge.

Downhill Karting at WinSport in Calgary.
Float the Bow River
Local Tip: Park a car at the start and end of your river float and remember a set of keys for both cars before jumping on the raft. Some rental companies provide shuttle services, or you can taxi or ride-share back to your original starting spot.

Rafting along the Bow River (Photo credit: Travel Alberta).
Picnic Spots in Calgary
Local Tip: Order a picnic lunch from River Café in Prince’s Island Park with a selection of locally sourced and handmade items to fill your basket. River Café even sells picnic totes, blankets, chiller bags, and corkscrews in case you forgot yours at home.

Picnic in Prince’s Island Park in Calgary.
River Surfing in Calgary
Local Tip: Not ready to jump in the water? Locals love to watch river surfing from the banks of the Bow River at the 10th Street Wave in downtown Calgary and get the ultimate Instagram shot.

River surfing at the 10th Street Wave in Calgary (Photo credit: Kelly Hofer).
Day Trips near Calgary
Local Tip: Shuttle services like Prairie Sprinter and RTB Tours & Shuttles are a great way to experience a day trip near Calgary and let someone else do the driving so you have more time for taking pictures.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (Photo credit: Travel Alberta / Jeremy Fokkens).