Summer is a time for sunshine, laughter, and making memories—and that includes everyone. Whether you're living with a disability or caring for someone who is, there's a wide world of inclusive, accessible fun waiting for you. Here are some great ideas and tips for making the most of summertime, along with suggestions tailored to Calgary, Alberta.
1. Nature & Outdoor Adventures
Accessible parks and pathways are a fantastic way to enjoy nature. In Calgary and nearby areas, check out:
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Fish Creek Provincial Park: Offers paved trails and accessible washrooms.
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Nose Hill Park: Features level walking paths and gorgeous prairie views.
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Inglewood Bird Sanctuary: A peaceful, accessible space to watch wildlife.
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Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park (just west of Calgary near Cochrane): Offers breathtaking views of the Bow River Valley. While not all trails are wheelchair accessible, the park has been working to improve accessibility and features wide, hard-packed gravel trails. They offer adaptive cycling and guided programs that may be suitable for individuals with various mobility needs—just contact the park for details ahead of time.
2. Adaptive Sports & Recreation
Many cities now offer adaptive versions of popular sports like:
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Wheelchair basketball
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Sledge hockey
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Boccia (a precision ball sport that’s great for people with all levels of mobility)
Calgary Adapted Hub is a local collaborative that connects people with inclusive sport and recreation programs. They list summer camps, swimming programs, and multi-sport opportunities for kids, youth, and adults.
If you're willing to venture a little beyond Calgary:
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Rocky Mountain Adaptive (based in Canmore and serving the Bow Valley region) offers world-class adaptive outdoor adventures, including:
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Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even adaptive paragliding
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Programs for all ages and ability levels
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Personalized support and adaptive equipment
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This is a phenomenal organization making the Rockies truly accessible to everyone.
3. Accessible Festivals & Cultural Events
Calgary is known for hosting inclusive events like:
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Calgary Stampede Sensory Day: Designed for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
- Giddy Up Events for people with disabilities and special needs
- Private, free to attendees, and allow time, space and a gentle setting for children to explore the western program offerings and spirit of the Calgary Stampede. Giddy-Up Events can range in size and capacity but there is typically something for every age group. Every attempt is made so these events are as friendly as possible for guests with mobility limitations.
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Canada Day and Folk Fest: Offer accessible seating and accommodations.
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GlobalFest: A multicultural fireworks festival that provides accessibility features.
4. Water Fun for Everyone
Many splash parks, pools, and lakes now offer:
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Zero-entry pools
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Water wheelchairs
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Pool lifts
In Calgary:
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Vecova Recreation Centre
Both offer inclusive swim programs and adaptive swimming aids.
5. Respite and Day Programs
Caring for someone with disabilities is a full-time commitment. Calgary offers:
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Between Friends: Summer day camps and social programs for children, youth, and adults with disabilities.
- Sinneave Family Foundation hosts learning and skill building events.
- Easter Seals offers day programs for people with special needs.
Tips for Planning an Inclusive Summer
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Call ahead to confirm accessibility features (washrooms, transportation, seating).
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Pack essentials: water, sunscreen, backup supplies, sensory aids, etc.
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Use Calgary Transit Access: Offers door-to-door accessible rides (book in advance).
Final Thoughts
Disability should never mean missing out on summer fun. With a little planning and the right resources, everyone can enjoy the sunshine, explore the outdoors, and create lasting memories.
So grab your sunhat and get out there—your best summer yet is waiting!