Calgary, Alberta may sit more than 800 kms (500 miles) from the nearest ocean, but every summer the city transforms into an unexpected water hub. In a destination best known for cowboy culture and wide-open plains, Calgary's urban water scene offers a surprising new perspective on the city, one that feels adventurous, local, and distinctly Calgary.  

Travelers may be surprised to stumble upon surfing culture in Calgary. At Harvie Passage, the South Channel creates low-intensity standing waves where surfers gather from May to October. The Alberta River Surfing Association supports first-timers looking to learn the basics of river surfing. It's uniquely Calgary where in spring you can ski the Rockies in the morning and catch a wave by the afternoon. Just minutes away from Harvey Passage, the redesigned Eau Claire Plaza brings a beach-like escape downtown with sand, loungers, and sunny yellow umbrellas, offering the perfect post-surf hangout.  

Celebrating 60 years of teaching guests how to sail in the prairies, Glenmore Sailing School is the largest sailing school in Canada. Located on the Glenmore Reservoir, Calgary's only base for sailing, adaptive sailing, and dragon boat racing, the school has become a focal point for urban outdoor adventure, where travelers and locals alike can learn the skill of sailing with mountain views in the distance. Programs Boys, Boats, and Beers and Sails & Sips offer a modern twist of the tradition, inviting drop-in visitors and first-time sailors to learn the ropes, take the tiller, or relax on the water before sharing drinks and stories back on shore. 

Nothing says summer in Calgary quite like floating the Bow River. Fed by glacier waters from the Rocky Mountains, the river offers a unique way to experience the city. Paddle past downtown skylines, urban parks, and riverside neighborhoods by inflatable raft, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. The Paddle Station makes the experience easy and accessible with riverside rentals and all the gear needed for a low-impact adventure, not to be missed on your trip to Calgary. 

For an unexpected take on outdoor summer adventures, discover a landlocked city with limitless urban outdoor experiences. Surf, sail, and paddle right in the heart of Calgary, Alberta. 

For more information, please contact Travel Media Manager, Aviva Kohen at avivak@tourismcalgary.com.