Where to Rec Kayak in Banff

Bow River - A medium to large volume run in a very scenic valley. The paddling isn't overly difficult but paddlers should be able to maneuver confidently on Class I moving water before doing this run. The reason being there are often strainers and awkward corners to avoid. There are 3 locations where trips typically encounter challenges. The first is a sharp right turn below the hoodoo's in Banff. Keep an eye out for wood in the river before the corner, as the current is slowly eroding the bank and will push paddlers towards the wood. The second is to make sure paddlers take the right channel after the golf course. there is a split in the river, river left is blocked by wood. There is a large sign indicating the safe route to the right. The third is the area just before the park gates. The river becomes braided with some channels choked off with wood. Keep an eye out to find the right channel to follow. This trip is a fun full day run. If you'd like to shorten it down for an evening or half day run, you can pull out at the end of the golf course.

Bow River - A medium volume run, with some fun Class II rapids along the way. Lots of meandering paddling, semi-regular strainers and world class scenery.

Johnson Lake - Usually calm, good for an hour of paddling.

Two Jack Lake - Usually calm waters. When the wind picks up, it's sometimes difficult to get to the south end & the creek. The depth varies throughout. According to wannadive.net - Average depth 6.1 m / 20 ft Max depth 15.2 m / 49.9 ft. Easy paddling north toward Lake Minnewanka (not connected, there's a big dam). Possible to paddle almost to Johnson Lake Road on the creek under the railroad bridge.

Vermillion Lakes - A series of shallow lakes that are part of the Bow River system. The main lakes are joined by small channels which are kind of fun to wind your way through. Paddling from the Banff Canoe Club on the Bow River up Echo Creek is a cool way to access the lakes. Fun for a short paddle and great with kids and family. Lots of opportunities for observing bird and wildlife.