We had the BEST time exploring Sikome Lake, and we didn’t even mind the sunscreen struggle!
Last summer, I made the rookie mistake of thinking I could just “stop by” Sikome Lake for a quick dip, but once I got there, time flies faster than sunscreen can burn.
What started as a casual visit turned into an all-day lakeside adventure, complete with swims, snacks, and the kind of sunburn that makes you question your life choices.
Want to know why it’s Calgary’s top summer spot? Keep reading—trust me, you won’t want to miss this!
Best Time to Go
Sikome Lake is a fantastic destination year-round, with something to offer no matter the season. If you’re planning to swim, the lake is open seasonally from June to September.
For those interested in hiking, the Sikome Viewpoint and Fish Creek trails are best explored between March and October. Birdwatching enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Sikome Lake throughout the year, but the winter months are ideal for Black-capped Chickadees and Nuthatches.
Things to Know
Location and Parking
Sikome Lake is nestled within Fish Creek Provincial Park, an urban oasis in the southern part of Calgary that protects the scenic Fish Creek valley.
Visitors will find several convenient parking options around Sikome Lake, including NW Parking, NE Parking, South Parking, and Overflow Parking.
It’s important to note that parking regulations are strictly enforced, so make sure to park in designated areas to avoid tickets or towing.
If you’re using the overflow lot on weekdays, be prepared to walk to the north entrances to pay admission and access the lake facilities.
Admission Fees and Operating Hours
Admission to Sikome Lake in Fish Creek Provincial Park varies by category. A day pass for a family (up to two adults and four children from the same household) costs $19.
For adults aged 18–64, the fee is $8, while seniors aged 65+ pay $5. Persons with disabilities can enter for $5, and their aides are admitted for free.
Season passes are also available, with prices for families ranging from $25 to $100, offering great value for frequent visitors.
Amenities and Facilities
Sikome Lake offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy:
- Beach: A large sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family playtime.
- Aquatic Facility: A fenced area featuring change rooms, showers, playgrounds, picnic tables, a concession stand, and a beach shop for all your essentials.
- Trails: Extensive walking paths ideal for nature viewing and leisurely strolls.
- Bike Racks: Conveniently located in the parking lots outside the fenced area.
- Beach Wheelchair: Available for loan at the main entrance, making the lake more accessible.
- Safety Ambassadors: On-site staff providing water safety education, basic first aid, and facility monitoring.
- First Aid Services: Provided by the Aquatic Safety Staff stationed on-site.
- Boat Launch: Located nearby at the Bow River for those looking to enjoy water activities.
Rules and Regulations
There are several rules and regulations that you need to follow when visiting Sikome Lake. These rules are set in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines before your visit to make sure you have a pleasant experience at the lake.
- Supervision: An adult must accompany children ages 12 and under. Children under the age of seven must be able to reach adults.
- Personal flotation devices: Children and non-swimmers are advised to use FDA-approved flotation devices.
- Swim Diapers: Children under three years old are required to wear plastic trousers and a swim diaper.
- Cannabis and alcohol are both severely forbidden.
- Smoking: Nowhere on the property is it permitted to smoke or vape.
- Glass Containers: It is not allowed to bring glass containers.
- Pets: With the exception of guiding and assisted-living dogs, pets are not permitted.
- Grills: In grassy areas, propane gas grills are permitted, however charcoal barbecues are restricted to designated picnic zones.
- Water Sports: Water masks, snorkels, paddleboards, and hard-bottomed boats are prohibited.
- Bikes and Equipment: Bikes, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, drones, and kites are not allowed within the facility.
- Weather: Access to the beach and water is suspended during thunderstorms, lightning, or other threatening weather conditions until it is safe to return.
How to Get to Sikome Lake
By car: head to 3 St SW S and turn left onto 1 sT sw. Then, turn right into 5 Ave SW and keep driving on 5 Ave S N. Once you reach Memorial Drive, turn right. Then, take another right into Deerfoot Ramp.
From there, merge onto AB-2 S and take exit 243. Next, continue onto Bow Bottom Trail and take a right onto Sikome Cir SE. The lake will be on your right.
By public transit: board the 201 bus at Somerset-Bridlewood station and get off at the Bridlewood CTrain station. From there, board the train and get off at Sun Valley station. From there, the lake is an 11-minute walk away.
Where to Eat near Sikome Lake
Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant
– Media credit: bowvalleyrestaurant
Address: 15979 Bow Bottom Trail SE
Phone: +1 403-476-1310
Pricing: $$$
Bow Valley Restaurant is a gem nestled in the heart of Calgary, surrounded by scenic walking paths and eye-catching art installations. The menu here strikes the perfect balance between rich and light, savory and sweet.
While it leans on the pricier side, the experience is absolutely worth it. Don’t miss the creamy burrata cheese or the fresh oysters—they’re a treat! And for a unique starter, the duck appetizer is both intriguing and downright delicious.
The Winkin’ Owl Pub & Kitchen
– Media credit: thewinkinowlpub
Address: 13750 Bow Bottom Trail SE
Phone: +1 403-764-4668
Pricing: $
Wednesday wing nights here are a total win! The wings are consistently big, saucy, and downright delicious. With an impressive lineup of 69 flavors, most of them are absolute crowd-pleasers.
Beyond wings, the menu doesn’t disappoint either—burgers, fries, and more all hit the spot. Just a heads-up, though: it gets packed (especially on wing night), so plan to arrive early if you’re aiming to snag your share of the saucy goodness.
Lighthouse Pub
– Media credit: bedeliciousfood
Address: 1140 137 Ave SE
Phone: +1 403-278-0053
Pricing: $
Lighthouse Pub is a cozy, laid-back spot packed with pool tables, games, and seating for everyone. With dim lighting and walls decked out in sports memorabilia, it’s got a vibe that screams “relax and stay awhile.”
The menu is impressively varied, and the deep-fried pickles are a must-try. Plus, the prices for both food and drinks are refreshingly reasonable. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite, sip a drink, and rack up a game of pool.
Pho Vy
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Address: 3750 Bow Bottom Trail SE #24
Phone: +1 403-455-8822
Pricing: $
Pho Vy is hands down our favorite Vietnamese spot in the city! The salad rolls are fresh, packed with flavor, and absolutely delicious, while the soup is rich and comforting—a perfect choice no matter the time of day.
Don’t miss the chicken salad rolls with peanut sauce or the dumplings—they’re phenomenal. The vermicelli with spring rolls and fish sauce is another standout, so fresh and flavorful. And if you’re a coffee lover, get the Vietnamese espresso iced coffee!
Filos Restaurant & Lounge
– Media credit: filoscalgary
Address: 1221 Canyon Meadows Dr SE #38
Phone: +1 403-271-3340
Pricing: $$
Wednesday nights here are a steal with half-price appetizers! We scored dumplings, bruschetta, and a beer for just $21—talk about an unreal deal. Their pizzas are also worth trying if you’re in the mood for a slice.
Most meals typically run $22-$24, but from 11 AM to 2 PM, you can grab them for a budget-friendly $15. Don’t miss out on the daily specials either—half-price appies on Wednesdays and pasta night on Tuesdays are definite highlights.
What to Do in Sikome Lake
Take a Dip
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Sikome Lake, tucked away in Fish Creek Provincial Park, is a seasonal hotspot open from June to September. Thanks to its water treatment system, which filters and chlorinates fresh well water, it’s a safe and inviting spot for a swim.
With its expansive beach, there’s plenty of room to spread out, even on those sweltering summer days. Plus, the shallow waters warm up nicely, making it perfect for a refreshing dip or a lazy float under the sun.
Go Paddleboarding
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With a designated swimming area covering over 10,000 square meters and a max depth of about 2 meters, Sikome Lake is perfect for beginner paddleboarders.
The gentle waters, thanks to its well-maintained infrastructure, make it even more inviting. Just keep in mind, it’s a popular spot, so weekends in July and August can get a bit crowded!
Hike the Sikome Lake Loop
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The Sikome Lake Loop is a paved trail circling the lake’s inner perimeter. While the signage could be improved, it’s straightforward to navigate.
For a slightly longer stroll, the outer loop offers a short and scenic walk, especially in September when the trees start showing off their fall colors.
The trail is easy and often teeming with wildlife, adding a touch of nature to your walk. Just be prepared for the occasional crowd and keep an eye out for less-than-considerate cyclists.
Take the Kids to the Playgrounds
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Sikome Lake is a haven for families, complete with plenty of shade and three playgrounds. Near the North Gate, there’s a toddler-friendly playground designed for ages 2-5, featuring a climber, slides, and an adorable animal sway swing.
For the bigger kids (5-12 years old), the northeast playground boasts a climbing structure, activity panels, slides, and monkey bars. There’s even a smaller playground south of the lake with a slide and a few pull-up bars.
Other Things to Do at Fish Creek Provincial Park
Explore over 100 kilometers of Trails
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Fish Creek Provincial Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting over 100 km of paved and unpaved trails, plus countless beaten paths for walking, jogging, cycling, and snapping shots of local wildlife and vibrant flora.
With a mix of paved routes, gravel paths, and single-track biking trails, the park feels like a giant maze waiting to be explored.
Go Bird Watching
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Fish Creek Provincial Park is a hotspot for birdwatchers, offering a diverse array of birds to spot. From wood warblers and orioles to blackbirds, towhees, sparrows, finches, and even raptors, there’s always something exciting to see.
Spot Wildlife
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It’s hard to believe Fish Creek Park is right in the heart of a bustling city. Once you descend into the valley, it feels like you’ve stepped into the wild, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Keep your eyes peeled—you might spot coyotes, elk, moose, and even the occasional bear roaming the park!
Bike Over 80 kilometers of Pathways
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Fish Creek Park offers a fantastic network of walking and biking trails, with both paved and unpaved options. You can cycle, walk, or run for over 35 km just within the park, and if you’re up for more, you can connect to the Bow River pathway for even further exploration.
For those seeking adventure off the beaten path, there are plenty of unpaved trails that lead through woodlands, plains, forests, and a variety of other ecosystems to discover.