Nature & Outdoors
Sunset Kayaking on Glenmore Reservoir is the City’s Best-Kept Secret
As temperatures rise, more locals are taking to Glenmore Reservoir for tranquil evening paddles that offer both exercise and serenity.
By Ava Martens | 2025-09-24 02:13
As the sun dips behind Calgary’s skyline, a quiet calm settles over the Glenmore Reservoir. The busy city fades into the background, replaced by the gentle lap of water and the rhythmic splash of paddles. For a growing number of locals, sunset kayaking here has become a serene daily ritual—and perhaps Calgary’s most underrated outdoor activity.
Nestled in the southwest of the city, Glenmore Reservoir was originally constructed for drinking water and flood control, but it has also become an unexpected haven for recreational paddlers. From early spring to late fall, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards skim across its surface, especially during the golden hour.
Evenings at Glenmore offer a uniquely tranquil experience. With motorized boats prohibited, the reservoir remains blissfully quiet. Wildlife sightings are common—everything from osprey and pelicans to deer along the forested shoreline. For paddlers, the sense of immersion in nature is immediate and restorative.
“There’s nothing quite like it,” says local resident Jasmin Leduc, who kayaks the reservoir several times a week. “I can leave work, hit the water in ten minutes, and completely reset my mood. The sunsets are just a bonus.”
Glenmore Sailing School and the Calgary Canoe Club both offer rentals and beginner classes, making the reservoir accessible even to those without gear or experience. Many newcomers are surprised by how beginner-friendly the water is—calm, spacious, and bordered by launch points with minimal current.
The north shore, particularly near Heritage Park, is a popular launch site for sunset sessions. Paddlers glide past docked sailboats and pine-lined trails, often accompanied by the distant sounds of music from park events or the calls of loons echoing over the water.
In recent years, sunset paddling has become a social activity as well. Groups organize evening meetups through apps and social media, while couples and families bring snacks or thermoses of tea to enjoy floating picnics. Some even attach lanterns or lights to their vessels for twilight excursions.
While the activity is peaceful, safety is still emphasized. Life jackets are mandatory, and paddlers are advised to return to shore before full darkness. Glenmore’s rules prohibit alcohol and require registration for any formal group activity, helping to maintain a low-impact, respectful atmosphere.
City officials have noted the uptick in evening usage and are working to improve access. Plans include expanding dock space, adding lighting along launch trails, and improving signage about safety protocols. However, there’s also an effort to preserve the reservoir’s low-key charm.
The Glenmore experience offers more than recreation—it provides perspective. Many paddlers say they gain a new appreciation for Calgary’s natural beauty and water resources while gliding across the reservoir. It’s an opportunity to slow down in a fast-paced city.
Beyond physical wellness, mental health advocates are championing kayaking as a mindful practice. “We encourage clients to connect with water as a grounding technique,” says therapist Ryan McKnight. “It’s an easy, accessible way to feel present, especially during those calm evening moments.”
Environmental groups are also engaging with the growing paddling community. Volunteers from the Weaselhead Preservation Society often educate users about shoreline protection and water quality, blending recreation with stewardship in a way that strengthens community ties.
Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or just seeking a quiet escape, sunset paddling on Glenmore Reservoir offers a front-row seat to nature’s evening show—without ever leaving the city limits. And for those who discover it, it quickly becomes a treasured habit.