Sikome Lake in Calgary's Fish Creek Provincial Park opened on June 29 for the 2026 season, following a comprehensive $6-million renovation that took four years to complete. The artificial lake, a popular summer destination for nearly 50 years, typically attracts about 100,000 visitors annually.
Renovation Details
The Alberta government invested $6 million over four years to upgrade the facility, which is fed by three freshwater wells and features an on-site water treatment plant. Key improvements include two new admissions booths, a new water safety centre, renovation of five existing buildings, site grading, and surface restoration. Minor finishing work will continue throughout the 2026 season, according to Alberta Parks.
New Water Safety Centre
The newly built water safety centre includes an on-site first aid station, safety education resources, and storage for aquatic safety equipment. This addition aims to enhance visitor safety at the lake, which has faced past incidents including a drowning in 2014.
Building Upgrades
Renovated and upgraded buildings include the concession and beach shop, staff services building, north change house, south change house, and south administration building. These improvements are designed to improve the visitor experience and operational efficiency.
Official Comments
“Sikome is an important summer destination for families across Calgary, and especially for my constituents in Calgary-Fish Creek,” said area MLA Myles McDougall in a news release. “I’m thrilled to see this investment revitalize the facility so it can safely welcome visitors this season and continue serving our community for years to come.”
Past Challenges
Despite its popularity, Sikome Lake has faced public relations challenges. In 2016, Alberta Parks faced backlash after introducing a fee to access the lake. Additionally, a drowning occurred in 2014 when 29-year-old Ali Shaikh jumped into the water from a raft without a lifejacket and failed to resurface; his body was found two days later. An urban myth about a dead horse discovered at the bottom of the lake has also persisted among Calgarians, though no news coverage confirms the incident.
