Where are Alberta's best beaches and swimming holes?
Unlike some of Canada's coastal provinces, landlocked Alberta swimming destinations aren't exactly legendary.
Alberta's weekend warriors share their favourite swimming spots
CBC News
Alberta beachcombers in search of a swimming hole will find plenty of choices across the province, including this secluded spot on Lesser Slave Lake. (Michael Leonard)
Unlike some of Canada's coastal provinces, landlocked Alberta swimming destinations aren't exactly legendary.
"People have this perception that there's no lakes, or they're gross here," says Edmonton beachcomberJenelle Polok.
But those yearningfor a refreshing dip, without the price-tag of a tropical vacation, don't despair.
A white sandy beach or placid lake is never that far away.
The gang at CBC Edmonton's afternoon show, Radio Active,put out a call to Alberta's most water-wise weekend warriors, and asked them to share their favourite swimming spots.
Whether you're up for a long road trip, or a quick day trip, there are plenty of 'watering holes' to choose from.
Know a beach or swimming spot we missed? Let us know in the comments section below.
Pigeon Lake
Revel in the white sand beaches of Pigeon Lake in central Alberta. (Pigeon Lake Provincial Park)
Long Lake Provincial Park Beach
This amazing park, hidden away in northern Alberta, includes beautiful beaches and secluded fishing spots. (Travel Alberta )
North Saskatchewan River
The once-neglected beaches of the North Saskatchewan River are becoming increasingly popular for swimmers and paddlers in Edmonton. (Edmonton Tourism)
Alberta Beach at Lac Ste. Anne
Located northwest of Edmonton, Alberta Beach, with its sandy beaches and grassy picnic areas, has become a popular swimming hole for families. (MamaT/Flickr)
Sylvan Lake
Considered the swimming destination for central Alberta, the Sylvan Lake beach offers calm waters, a manicured shoreline, plenty of waterfront shops, and is home to Alberta's only lighthouse. (Town of Sylvan Lake)
Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park
Alberta beachcombers will find miles of lovely clean sand on the beaches of Lesser Slave Lake. (Travel Alberta )
Cold Lake
The beaches on the shores of Cold Lake may possibly be the best in Alberta, according to some weekend warriors. (Alberta Parks)
Horseshoe Lake
Best explored on a sunny summer day, this horseshoe-shaped lake has crystal clear water and plenty of swimming spots, surrounded by cliffs. (theoutbound.com)
Lake Annette Beach
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Lake Annette Beach may be one of the most stunning beach settings in Alberta. (Holger Knecht)
Herbert Lake
The water may be chilly, but plenty of Lake Louise locals like it that way, and there's even a diving board where you can really take a plunge. (fusionpanda/Flickr)
Wapiti River
The Wapiti River snakes its way from the Rockies of British Columbia, and meanders across Alberta toward the County of Grande Prairie. (Harlinadrim/Deviantart.com )
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