When you think of swimming in Alberta, you probably picture cold lakes that take your breath away the second you step in. But hidden in the province lies a man-made lake that completely changes that experience.
Lake Newell becomes one of the warmest swimming spots in the province during the summer. It’s the kind of place where you can actually stay in the water for hours rather than doing a quick cold plunge and calling it a day.
A beach day in the prairies
Located in Brooks, Alta., Lake Newell comes to life during the summer months and becomes a go-to spot for Albertans looking for a beach day. According to Alberta Parks, it is considered one of the warmest lakes in Southern Alberta, setting it apart from all of the colder, glacier-fed lakes across the province.
Because it is a reservoir, the water warms up faster in the summer and can reach temperatures of up to 23°C, which is truly pretty crazy to think about.
It also helps that the lake is massive! According to Alberta Parks, it’s one of the largest reservoirs in the province, covering approximately 66.4 square kilometres, so even on busy days, you still have enough space to swim without it feeling overly crowded.
And if you’re more into the relaxing side of a beach day, there is plenty of space along the shoreline to hang out; it’s also covered in sand to really elevate that beach day feel.
What to know before you go
If you’re planning to head out to Lake Newell this summer, there are a few things to know before you go to make the most of your day. Primary access to the lake is through Kinbrook Island Provincial Park, which offers camping, picnic areas, and designated swimming spots.
Because it is a reservoir, wind conditions can change fairly quickly, especially later in the day, so it’s definitely best to keep an eye on the weather before you head out there.
If you’re planning to swim, it’s always important to practice water safety and wear a life jacket, especially if you are heading into deeper waters.
The lake is about a two-hour drive from Calgary, making it the perfect day trip if you’re willing to journey out for some warmer water and a laid-back day on the beach.
So if you’re tired of jumping into cold lakes for 10 seconds and calling it a swim, this is your sign to start planning a real beach day, and Lake Newell is the perfect place to do exactly that.
When: Open year-round
Time: Open 24 hours
Where: Kinbook Island Provincial Park, Brooks, Alta.
Cost: Free
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