Where to Kayak in Banff National Park

Where to Kayak in Banff National Park

AQ Staff
5 minute read

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Where to paddle in Banff national park
Photo:  Paul Kolman

Banff National Park is famous all around the world!  As a teenager snowboarding in the 90's in Australia and New Zealand I had even heard about it!  Now, that was for winter activities, what I have since learned (since moving to Calgary in 2015) is that the paddling is also amongst some of the best in the world.

 
This 'Where to Paddle Guide' gives some of the highlight locations for both recreational and whitewater paddlers.  Each entry is just an introduction, if you click on the PaddlingMaps.com links it will take you to full location descriptions with maps, gps waypoints (downloadable when logged in), local knowledge and much more.

This is by no means an exhaustive list and there are many more listed within the PaddlingMaps.com website.  The site is driven by community members, so, if you have some gem paddling spots we dont have listed we would love to see you add them on Paddlingmaps.com.

If the list below gets you excited to get out on the water, feel free to follow the links below for more information:

Where to paddle in Banff National Park

Where to Paddle in Banff Map

LAKE PADDLING NEAR BANFF & LAKE LOUISE

 

WHITEWATER RIVERS (EXPERIENCED WW PADDLERS)

  • Johnston Canyon (Class V):  A drop filled hike in whitewater run.  Lots of classy whitewater and some portages.  Go ready to answer lots of questions from hikers on your way to the put in.
  • Upper Kananaskis Lake:  Upper Kananaskis Lake is a gorgeous mountain lake created by a dam on the Kananaskis River. More exposed to wind and elements than its big brother Lower Kananaskis Lake, paddlers need to be ready for sudden weather changes and strong winds. Absolutely gorgeous surroundings in the Rocky Mountains, and there are options for camping and overnight excursions.


Well, that is just a small sampling of the amazing paddling opportunities in and around Banff National Park.  For more options and details simply go to PaddlingMaps.com and browse the region.  We hope this will provide loads of paddling based inspiration for this season and beyond

If you are looking to get more experience on the water our Calgary location (and Edmonton) offer a full range of kayak and SUP instructional programs.  We also offer rental kayaks, SUPs and gear to help get you out on the water in and around Calgary.

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