Welcome to Calgary, where adventure meets serenity.
Ever considered paddling amidst the stunning Canadian Rockies?
Discover the best places to paddle board in Calgary and beyond.
Join us as we navigate through Calgary’s picturesque waters. Are you up for the challenge?
Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Calgary
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Glenmore Reservoir
- 🏖️ Location Type: Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Heritage Park & North Glenmore Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, light winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Geese, ducks, small fish
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Calgary’s skyline, Heritage Park Historical Village
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: No swimming allowed, reservoir hours apply
The Glenmore Reservoir, just southwest of downtown Calgary, offers a serene paddleboarding experience while enjoying views of the city’s skyline.
The calm waters surrounded by beautiful parks make it ideal for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike.
#2 Bow River
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Shouldice Park & Edworthy Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, varies with seasons
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Trout, geese, ducks
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Calgary downtown, beautiful river passages
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for river hazards, and respect local rules
The Bow River, which runs through the heart of Calgary, provides a relaxing and scenic paddleboarding experience along its shores.
Due to varying currents depending on the season, it’s essential to watch for potential river hazards such as rocks and logs.
#3 Fish Creek Provincial Park
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Fish Creek Park (near Sikome Lake) (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, minimal currents
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, beavers, deer, birds
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Dense forest, scenic park trails
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to park rules, respect wildlife
Fish Creek Provincial Park is home to Fish Creek, which provides a serene paddleboarding experience surrounded by dense forest.
Its calm waters are easy to navigate and are suitable for all skill levels. Be sure to keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife in the area.
#4 Chestermere Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Anniversary Park & John Peake Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm and shallow, afternoon winds possible
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, fish
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Lakeside community, recreational activities
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to local lake rules, watch for other watercraft
Located just east of Calgary, Chestermere Lake offers a beautiful lakeside paddleboarding experience.
The calm and shallow waters make it friendly for all skill levels. Beyond paddleboarding, the lake also hosts various recreational activities suitable for the whole family.
#5 Ghost Lake
- 🏖️ Location Type: Mountain Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Ghost Lake Recreation Area (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm waters, may have afternoon winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds, occasional wildlife on the shores
- 🏞️️ Landmarks & Views: Rocky Mountains, dense forests, Ghost Reservoir Dam
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Be prepared for cool water, occasional winds, and follows reservoir rules
Ghost Lake, a short drive west of Calgary, provides a mountainous paddleboarding experience with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
The calm waters, combined with the natural surroundings, make it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque adventure.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Calgary?
You can paddle board at notable locations in Calgary like Glenmore Reservoir, Sikome Aquatic Facility, and Ghost Lake.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Calgary?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Calgary.
When is the best time to paddle board in Calgary?
The ideal time to paddle board in Calgary is from May until September, when the weather conditions are most favourable.
