Where to Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Alberta

Rocky Mountains

A day spent stand-up paddleboarding means a day spent taking in stunning scenery. Win-win. If you've never tried, or you don't have a board, no problem. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) can look tricky at first, but it's quite easy to get the hang of. Here are some places in the province where you can rent a board (don't forget a life jacket), take lessons and even book SUP tours. You'll be hooked in no time.

The Canadian Rockies have some of the most popular SUP spots in Alberta. With turquoise water beneath your board and towering mountain peaks all around, it's easy to see why.

Canmore

Bow Valley Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Canmore offers rentals, SUP sales, lessons and tours.

Come for the calm waters and great views of Ha-Ling Peak at Spray Lakes Reservoir, just outside town. Another popular spot is Quarry Lake, a small lake with plenty of space for picnics.

Banff

Paddlers can explore a section of the Bow River with the Banff Canoe Club, near downtown Banff. Inflatable boards are also available for rent at Adventure Hub. Some of the best places to SUP are  Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake. Both can be reached from the Minnewanka Loop Road, Vermilion Lakes, which has great opportunities for wildlife viewing and the idyllic backdrops of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.

Jasper

The Boathouse at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge provides SUP rentals to hotel guests and visitors. On the shore of Lac Beauvert, this tranquil lake is perfect for getting to know the sport.

Translucid Adventures offers daily rentals, tours and a SUP school, including Paddle Canada skills courses, SUP fitness classes and even SUP yoga. Find them on the beach at Edith Lake, about 6.5 km (4 mi) from the town of Jasper. Gas-powered motors are forbidden on the lake, which means extra-calm water for you and your SUP.

Central Alberta

Central Alberta is a hidden gem. Its picturesque landscapes and lakes make it a worthy destination for your summer SUP list. Sylvan Lake is a popular spot about 24 km (15 mi) from the City of Red Deer, and Nomads will get you set up with SUP rentals.

Pigeon Lake, about 108 km (67 mi) from Edmonton, is central Alberta's largest lake. It's a popular destination and there's plenty of space for some self-powered aquatic adventures. If you need to rent a board, stop by Pigeon Lake Boat Rentals.

Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta is where you'll find unbelievable scenery and places to SUP – whether it's the otherworldly badlands or in the middle of Alberta's largest city.

Calgary & Area

The University of Calgary offers SUP courses ranging from beginner lake and river sessions to advanced overnight and white-water excursions. The locations of the courses vary, but they'll make sure it's right for the level you're at. If you want to find your own place to SUP, the Bow River is the place to be. Just remember that, while on the river, you're required to wear a lifejacket with a whistle, and the fast-moving water is better suited to advanced SUP-ers.

Just 18.7 km (11.6 mi) from downtown Calgary is Chestermere Lake. Rent a SUP from Hyperactive Watersports and spend a relaxing day on this beginner-friendly lake.

Waterton Lakes

Stop by Blakiston & Company in the town of Waterton to rent a paddleboard. They'll get you set up with everything you need and give you plenty of tips for where to SUP in the area.

The three larger lakes within Waterton Lakes National Park are stunning, but it can be windy. Of the three, Middle Waterton Lake is fairly sheltered along the shore – and you get an excellent view of the Prince of Wales Hotel. Another option for SUP-ers of all abilities is Cameron Lake, about 16 km (10 mi) away from town. It's smaller and calmer and located at the end of the gorgeous Akamina Parkway.

Watercraft in 2024: New restrictions on non-motorized watercraft from outside Waterton Lakes National Park are in effect as of April 1, 2024. Rental companies operating inside the park may be exempt. See  Parks Canada and check with rental companies directly for more details.

Northern Alberta

With daylight lasting until after 10 p.m. in mid-summer, there's plenty of time for SUP-ing in Northern Alberta. Known for its lush boreal forests and expansive lakes, the water can be on the chilly side. A wet suit might be a good idea.

In the city of Fort McMurray, you can easily access smooth water SUP-ing on the Snye River from Snye Point Park. There's easy access and several spots to rent a board in town, too.

Edmonton

In Alberta's capital, grab a board from River Valley Adventure Co. It's best to reserve ahead of time. Edmonton is home to the longest stretch of urban parkland in North America, and the ponds in Hermitage Park and Rundle Park are good options for all levels – you'll just have to transport your board from the rental site. You can also SUP on the North Saskatchewan River, but it's best for those with experience.

Elk Island National Park

Get set up with your paddleboard at Elk Island Paddle Sports Rentals on the shore of Astotin Lake in Elk Island National Park, about 47 km (29 mi) from downtown Edmonton. Make a day of it and camp in the park, which is also a dark sky preserve.

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park, Alberta's only island provincial park, offers SUP rentals from the main campground. Take your board out for the day and then spend the night camping on the island.

There are plenty more opportunities to SUP on hundreds of Alberta bodies of water. Do your research ahead of time and make sure to stay safe.