The sun is out and summer is here. For the weekend warriors, that means it’s time to grab your gear and seek out adventure. Regardless of whether you’re a novice or a pro, there’s nothing like getting out on the water when the weather is nice. Luckily, these are some of the best spots for kayaking in and around Calgary.
Kayaking in Calgary
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No need to leave the city! Bring your kayak, or grab a rental, and paddle around these urban spots.
Glenmore Reservoir
You can get all the water time you need right on Glenmore Reservoir! If you don’t have your own equipment, stop by the Glenmore Boat Patrol office and rent a three-person canoe, a single or a tandem kayak. Personal flotation devices and paddles are provided.
Bow River
Take your kayak and enjoy a serene paddle along Calgary’s Bow River. Some routes to try are Baker Park to Pearce Estate Park and Bowness Park to Bow River Pathway Bridge along Memorial Drive. Make sure to use designated boat launch points to avoid disturbing any sensitive wildlife areas.
Elbow River
If you want to start with training wheels, the Elbow Rover is a little shallower and calmer compared to the Bow. This river is ideal for families and inexperienced rafters. Try kayaking from Sandy Beach to McDonald Bridge, and once again, make sure to stick to designated launch points.
Kayaking near Calgary
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If you’re happy to drive in search of your next water adventure, these are a few kayaking spots within a couple of hours of Calgary. Not all of these spots offer rentals nearby, so come prepared or make sure your vehicle has a roof rack to transport your rental.
Chestermere Lake
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Just east of Calgary, this family-friendly lake is a perfect spot for a full day of water, fun, and sun. Bring your kayak to the boat launch area, or hit up one of the many rental places in the area if you don’t have your own gear.
Distance from Calgary: 24.5 km
Ghost Lake Reservoir
If you can’t make it all the way to the mountains, stop at Ghost Lake just West of Cochrane. The lake is massive, with a couple of points of entry, but make sure to stick to the boat launch areas for the easiest access to the water.
Distance from Calgary: 56.3 km
Barrier Lake
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Enjoy more stunning Kananaskis sights at Barrier Lake. This is another spot where the wind could be an issue, so make sure you’re safe and comfortable kayaking before trying this spot, or just check the weather beforehand.
Distance from Calgary: 86.4 km
Wedge Pond
A hidden gem in Kananaskis, Wedge Pond is a perfect spot for beginners to get their sea legs. There are plenty of entry points, and its views make it the perfect spot for a day in the mountains.
Distance from Calgary: 104 km
Lower Kananaskis Lake
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While it can get a little windy, it is more sheltered than Upper Kananaskis Lake. There are also lots of great picnic and camping spots in the area, so you can even make a weekend of it.
Distance from Calgary: 139 km
Johnson Lake
While this spot just outside of Banff is pretty popular, it’s for a reason. Get there early to beat the crowds and enjoy a day on the water surrounded by some of the most beautiful views in Alberta.
Distance from Calgary: 130 km
Two Jack Lake
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This is a great spot for beginners, and it’s right by Johnson Lake (if you didn’t find parking there). Enjoy easy paddling and stunning views. But it is another one where crowds might be an issue, so make sure you get there early.
Distance from Calgary: 138 km
Lake Minnewanka
From Two Jack, you can keep paddling into Lake Minnewanka. The water is very cold here, so make sure you’re stable on your kayak before you set off. Canoe and kayak rentals are available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis.
Distance from Calgary: 138 km
Lake Louise
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As if you needed another reason to visit this stunning spot. Nothing beats kayaking on the stunning glacier waters of Lake Louise, but make sure you plan ahead, since this is one of the most popular spots within Banff National Park in the summertime.
Distance from Calgary: 183 km
Do you have any favourite kayaking spots in or around Calgary that we missed? Let us know where in the comments below.