Discover the Best Lakes Near Calgary: A Guide to Ghost Lake, Gleniffer Lake, and Sylvan Lake

At Progressive Edge Dental Hygiene, we are firm believers in the importance of hard work. Whether we’re re-tipping dental instruments or selling the finest new scalers, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and quality products to dental professionals. However, we also recognize the importance of recreation and taking time to unwind. With the hot weather we’re experiencing in the Calgary area right now, what better way to relax than by exploring some of the best lakes nearby? In this blog, we’ll highlight three of our favorite lakes: Ghost Lake, Gleniffer Lake, and Sylvan Lake. Each offers unique opportunities for fun and relaxation, making them perfect destinations for your next getaway.

Ghost Lake: A Water Sports Paradise

Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Ghost Lake offers a breathtaking backdrop for all kinds of water sports and outdoor activities. Located just 18km west of Cochrane on the 1A Highway and only 25 minutes from Calgary city limits, this deep and wide lake is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Activities and Attractions

Ghost Lake is renowned for its excellent conditions for sailing, thanks to the steady winds that sweep down from the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a novice, you’ll find this lake to be an ideal spot for catching the wind and enjoying the open water. For those who prefer fishing, Ghost Lake is home to a variety of freshwater fish, including:

• Bull Trout
• Brook Trout
• Lake Trout
• Rainbow Trout
• Cutthroat Trout
• Brown Trout

With such a diverse range of fish, anglers of all skill levels can look forward to a rewarding day on the water.

Camping and Amenities

Ghost Lake also offers ample opportunities for camping and RVing. The campground, open from May 1st to October 15th, features 80 sites for RV camping or tenting. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire pit, providing a perfect setting for family gatherings and outdoor meals. The campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during long weekends.

Additional amenities include potable water, outhouses, firewood for purchase, and a chandlery offering a variety of confectionary items. Whether you’re sailing, power boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, or paddleboarding, Ghost Lake provides a convenient location to make the most of your time on and off the water.

Gleniffer Lake: Year-Round Recreation

Just over an hour from Calgary and less than two hours from Edmonton, Gleniffer Lake offers a tranquil escape with a wide range of amenities and activities. The Gleniffer Lake Resort is the only resort on the lake that provides year-round accessibility, making it a prime destination for both summer and winter getaways.

Resort Amenities

The resort features a vibrant community atmosphere with numerous activities available both within the resort and in the surrounding area. Some of the highlights include:

• A challenging 9-hole golf course
• Three swimming pools (including one indoor pool)
• Hot tubs
• A marina with a new breakwater (added in 2022)
• Tennis courts
• A private, gated marina
• A general store
• Year-round servicing
• An exercise room

The 13,000 square foot clubhouse includes a restaurant and lounge, providing a comfortable place to relax and enjoy a meal after a day of activities.

A Beautiful, Clear Lake

Gleniffer Lake itself is a sparkling, clear body of water perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The serene setting is ideal for getting away from the hustle and stress of everyday life, offering a peaceful retreat where you can recharge and reconnect with nature.

Sylvan Lake: A Vibrant Lakeside Community

Sylvan Lake is a dynamic lakeside community located just 20 minutes west of Red Deer. With a population of 14,816 and a median age of 34.1, this thriving town offers a high quality of life and a wide range of recreational activities unique to a lakeside setting.

Year-Round Activities

Sylvan Lake is known for its year-round events and activities, which draw an average of 760,000 visitors each summer. Some of the highlights include:

• Winter polar bear dips
• Ice fishing
• Skating on the beautiful lake during winter
• Paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and even diving in the warmer months
• Beach volleyball
• Festivals and fireworks shows

With so many options, there’s always something to do at Sylvan Lake, whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter.

Economic Opportunities and Community Spirit

Sylvan Lake boasts diverse economic opportunities, with key industry sectors including tourism, professional scientific technical services, manufacturing, and oil and gas. The town is home to over 560 licensed businesses, and downtown revitalization efforts are underway, further enhancing its appeal as a vibrant community.

At Progressive Edge Dental Hygiene, we understand the value of balancing hard work with recreation. Exploring the beautiful lakes near Calgary—Ghost Lake, Gleniffer Lake, and Sylvan Lake—provides the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re sailing on Ghost Lake, enjoying the amenities at Gleniffer Lake Resort, or participating in the vibrant community activities at Sylvan Lake, there’s something for everyone. So, take some time to escape the heat and make the most of the beautiful weather by visiting these fantastic lakes. 

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We promise, you’ll return refreshed and ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way.