Experience Sikome Lake
Ask any Calgarian, we don’t get a ton of super-hot weather. However, when the temperature does soar in summer, the place to be is at a lake. For thousands of Calgarians, especially those living in the southeast quadrant of the city, the go-to lake is Sikome (si-KO-me). And, given the fact that Alberta Parks is in the midst of a redevelopment plan to upgrade this already outstanding facility, that’s not about to change anytime soon.
The Sikome Aquatic Facility provides outdoor recreational opportunities for Calgarians. In the summer of 2017 about 100,000 people visited the facility, which is located in Fish Creek Provincial Park. Not surprisingly, given its popularity and its age, Alberta Parks, in conjunction with the public, have decided to enhance and modernize the facility. A three-phase plan, scheduled for completion in 2018, is well underway.
“Phase 1 of this redevelopment is now finished and included a 30-day public consultation,” says Tim Chamberlain with Alberta Parks. “In 2017 we replaced the sand and introduced commercial food trucks. Other improvements have included a renovated shower building, upgrades to water treatment, new tent structures, and upgrades to paving stones.”
Sikome Aquatic Facility – courtesy Travel Alberta
Sikome offers plenty of opportunities for aquatic fun and a family-friendly atmosphere. It is especially popular with young families on hot days. Sightings of water fowl and beavers are common in the area, so make sure to bring your camera.
In 2016, small user fees were introduced, with proceeds going back into capital investment in the facility itself, such as:
- Reopening the south side of the lake and increasing the number of Aquatic Safety Staff
- Upgrading washroom and change facilities
- Extending the swimming season to include the Labour Day weekend
- Improving accessibility for persons with disabilities
Alberta Parks plans to complete the final two phases of the planning and public participation process in 2018. This will include an open house and another public consultation to gather additional feedback that will be applied to the final plan for the modernization of the facility.
With numerous amenities in place – including swimming areas, change rooms, gas-powered BBQs, concession stands, and playground areas, the future of the Sikome Lake Aquatic Facility has a firm foundation. Thousands of Calgarians will continue to flock to the facility to enjoy those attributes. And regardless of how, exactly, those final two phases play out, without a doubt, on those precious few hot days, Sikome Lake will continue to be the place you want to be.
By: Andrew Penner
The fenced Sikome Aquatic Facility is open seasonally beginning in late June. (Opening and closing dates vary each year.) Access is via Bow Bottom Trail or Sun Valley Blvd. Parking is free.
Check out what’s new this year or visit Alberta Park’s Sikome Aquatic Facility at albertaparks.ca/sikome to see more details.
