Some of the best spots to canoe, kayak and float

A relaxing river float is a favourite summer pastime in Alberta’s cities and, to some, a rite of passage. If you’ve never been floating before, or don’t have your own equipment, Calgary River Experience offers guided float tours along the Bow River. The tours start at Pearce Estate Park, and all you have to do is sit back and relax. River float tours in Edmonton are offered through River Valley Adventure Co. and begin at Louise McKinney Park, nestled near downtown in the city’s famous North Saskatchewan River Valley.

If you’d rather choose your own adventure, the Elbow and Bow rivers are ideal for floats in Calgary. Rafts are available to rent from The Paddle Station and Lazy Day Raft Rentals, and the rivers can be accessed from various points throughout the city – popular end points are Prince’s Island Park, Shouldice Park and Edworthy Park. Plan your route ahead of time – take particular note of the location of Harvie Passage, a channel that features man-made rapids (stay right for the easier route!) -- and don’t forget to arrange safe transportation back to your vehicle.

Near Edmonton, the Pembina River is a well-kept secret west of the city, where you can enjoy a meandering, lazy current through a deeply carved gorge. Pembina River Paddling offers rentals, life jackets and a shuttle service.

Canadian Rockies

There’s unbeatable canoeing and kayaking opportunities across the province. No boat? No problem. If you’re after a quintessential mountain experience, rent a canoe or kayak from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Boathouse in Lake Louise or Moraine Lake Lodge and paddle on unbelievably blue water with mountain peaks all around. In the town of Banff, visit the Banff Canoe Club for rentals, advice and some fantastic paddling on the Bow River or check out the canoe, kayak or even power boat rentals on Lake Minnewanka.

For an easy daytrip from Calgary, head to Kananaskis Country and rent a canoe from Kananaskis Outfitters. Their boats are built to accommodate beginners and advanced paddlers, and they also offer guided tours, if that’s more your speed. The rental canoes need to be transported to the water, so come prepared for that. The company has canoes as well as single and tandem kayaks available on the shores of nearby Barrier Lake, or you can rent and transport the canoe to other area lakes.

In Jasper National Park, stop at the historic Maligne Lake Boat House, rent a canoe, kayak or rowboat and paddle across the famous lake. The trip will take you to remote shorelines amid Jasper’s rugged natural beauty – including Spirit Island. Wild Current Outfitters also offers canoe and kayak rentals, as well as guided Pyramid Lake tours that can accommodate two to six people per canoe.

Venture down south to Waterton Lakes National Park and visit Blakiston & Company to get sorted out with canoe and kayak rentals. The three larger lakes in Waterton often experience high winds and rougher water conditions, but Cameron Lake is a calmer option that’s best for beginner paddlers.

Central Alberta

Central Alberta is an Alberta hidden gem worth exploring this summer. The region is known for outdoor recreation, including paddling on Sylvan Lake. The laidback lake community has no shortage of watersport opportunities, including one- or two-person kayak rentals from Sunsport Recreation.

Northern Alberta

The North Saskatchewan River, which winds through Edmonton’s sprawling river valley, also offers excellent paddling options – without having to venture outside the city. Stop by Edmonton Canoe to rent canoes for a variety of trips, whether it’s a happy hour paddle after work or a full-day excursion. They even offer a shuttle service.

The northern region of the province is an adventure all its own. Rivers wind through lush boreal forests and sprawling national parks. For a quick daytrip from Edmonton, head 47 km (29 mi) east to Elk Island National Park. Rent a canoe or kayak from Haskin Canoe and explore the park’s scenery from as you paddle along Astotin Lake – keep an eye out for wildlife, including bison.

Lakeland Expedition Rentals in Lac La Biche can provide canoes to tackle Alberta’s only backcountry canoe circuit. This one may be best for more adventurous paddlers, as there’s a 3 km (1.9 mi) portage at the start, but the water conditions are ideal for all levels. If you’re up for it, the entire circuit is 38 km (24 mi) long and takes three days to complete.

Of course, let’s not forget about Peace River, affectionately known as the Mighty Peace. You’ll have your pick of lakes and rivers to explore, from the Whitemud River to Lac Cardinal. Rent a canoe from Peace River Cabins and Outdoors and you’re ready for your northern adventure. They can even arrange a shuttle up the river so you can enjoy one or more days paddling back down to the cabins, with a hot shower and cozy stay to look forward to when you return.

Southern Alberta

The Canadian Badlands are often on summer bucket lists for their otherworldly scenery and fossil hunting, but they’re equally fun to experience from the water. Stop by Red Deer River Adventures in Drumheller for a guided tour of the valley or rent a canoe or kayak if you’re up for venturing out on your own. Either way, the Red Deer River is ideal for all levels to explore.

If you’re interested in city paddling, visit The Paddle Station at Shouldice Park or St. Patrick’s Island in Calgary. Get your hands on a kayak or stand up paddleboard and paddle your way along the Bow River, which will take you past fantastic views of downtown. If you’d rather paddle in a canoe, the Calgary Canoe Club can get you ready to enjoy the water and scenery at the Glenmore Reservoir.