Sunshine, serenity, and zero tan lines: if this is your idea of the perfect summer day, then you are in luck. No, Alberta does not have palm trees or the ocean. But we do have beaches, and in Calgary, there are even a couple where you can soak up the sun without a swimsuit.
Before we jump into it, however, it is important to note that Calgary’s nude beaches are all about body positivity, acceptance, and above all else, beautiful weather.
These particular sandy escapes are clothing optional, so while you don’t have to wear anything, you can if you’re more comfortable.
If it isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of other places in and around the city where you can swim, lounge, and have fun, but here are the ones where you can do so… freely.
Tucked between the Glenmore Reservoir and Tsuut’ina Nation Land, Weaslehead has welcomed friendly folk for over 20 years.
“This area is open to people of all body types, sizes, all genders, all sexualities, young or old, and clothed or naked,” Calgary Nude Recreation (CNR) writes.
“Nudity is not required. Common sense, respectful conduct, and adherence to naturist values are required to ensure the long-term viability of the area. Air patrols (HAWCS) are a regular occurrence.”
To get there, you will have to take a 30 to 40 minute hike from the parking lot to the beach, but don’t fret.
Along the Hummingbird Trail, time will fly, and once you get there, you’re in for a relaxing afternoon.
True to its name, Hidden Beach is a little tougher to get to.
While centrally located, there are no sight lines, roads or clear pathways to the area.
“Hidden Beach has been used by CNR since the summer of 2020. Many of our members have returned multiple times and used this location by themselves without issue,” the organization writes.
“Despite being extremely close to high-traffic areas, Hidden Beach is surprisingly unused by others. The trail isn’t apparent when walking on the well-established nearby dirt paths, which makes Hidden Beach… well, nicely hidden.”
To get there, start your journey from Canyon Meadows Drive. You’ll be able to access the beach via the established paths on the south side of the creek near the Glennfield Day Use Area, then enjoy.
There’s no place like it.
Before you head out
Want to check it out? Before you head out, please be advised that while these beaches have been acknowledged by officials, they have not been designated, as CNR explained on its website.
“There are only two beaches in Canada that are officially designated as clothing optional, located in Vancouver and Toronto,” CNR says.
“Every other nude area in Canada is ‘unofficial’. This location has been used for decades without issue, and its location and use for non-sexual naturism are well known to the authorities,” so go forth!
Check it out, Calgary, or don’t, it is your body, your choice.
Either way, stay out of trouble, follow the rules, and be kind. It’s going to be a beautiful season, and everyone deserves to have a beachin’ summer.
Related posts:
There’s a collection of islands in Alberta with soft sand beaches and ‘ah-mazing’ sunsets
How Calgary’s oldest indie bookstore is celebrating its 50th anniversary
