Echo Dale Regional Park to reopen on Friday morning, Swim Lake to remain closed

Jun 18, 2026 | 7:40 AM

Echo Dale Regional Park is set to reopen Friday morning, but its swim lake will remain closed until further notice as the City of Medicine Hat continues to respond to the aftermath of a tragic incident earlier this week.

The city announced Thursday that the park will reopen at 7 a.m., with all amenities available except the swim lake.

Officials say the lake is being drained because the city does not currently have sufficient staffing to safely supervise the area or manage restricted access. Draining the lake will eliminate the need for on-site security staff or barricades to prevent entry.

The decision follows Monday’s fatal incident at the park involving an 11-year-old boy who was taken to hospital after a suspected drowning and later died.

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In a statement, the City said keeping the swim lake closed will allow available aquatic staff and resources to focus on safely operating other open pool facilities while maintaining appropriate supervision standards.

The City has already reopened its other aquatic facilities, including Kinsmen Aquatic Park and the Crestwood, Strathcona and Hill pools. They were temporarily closed to allow staff time to access support services.

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READ: Aquatic facilities in Medicine Hat reopen after temporary closure following Echo Dale Park incident (June 17, 2026)

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Officials said the safety and wellbeing of residents and employees remains the City’s top priority.

The City also thanked residents for their patience, understanding, and compassion during what it described as a difficult time.

No timeline has been provided for when the swim lake could reopen. The city says updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

by Jesse Gill

Echo Dale Regional Park to reopen on Friday morning, Swim Lake to remain closed

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