Where to Paddle
Below you can find a few suggestions of different places to paddle around Canmore and Banff. It is your responsibility to check the conditions of any lake or river you want to visit before going.
Rundle Forebay Reservoir
Location: Rundle Forebay reservoir is located in Canmore, only a 10-min drive from our storage. Click HERE to see the map and directions.
Paddle time: 1 - 1.5 hrs.
Difficulty: EASY. Best for beginners to learn and practice basic paddling skills. The reservoir is shallow, small and usually not as cold as the other lakes in the area.
Description: The Rundle Forebay reservoir is a very popular place for Canmore locals to go for a quick paddle. The reservoir is easily accessible by car and has beautiful views of the mountains. Parking is only a few meters from the water. There is an open area / beach for picnic if needed, but no picnic tables available.
Facilities: Free parking. Washroom 5 min walk to the Canmore Nordic Centre. NO picnic tables. Only 1 bench to seat. NO fire pits. Open areas / beach. Walking / biking trails nearby.
Additional suggested activities: Paddle to the end of the reservoir and hike up to Grassi lakes. Hike back down and paddle back to the parking lot. Duration: 2-2.5 hrs.
Bow River
Cascade Pond
Location: Cascade Pond is located in Banff National Park only 20 min drive from our storage. Click HERE for map and directions.
Paddling time: 1 hr - all day.
Difficulty: EASY. Best for beginners to learn and practice basic paddling skills. The pond is shallow, small and usually not as cold as the other lakes in the area.
Description: Cascade Pond is a beautiful and family friendly spot inside Banff National Park. This place is ideal for families with small children, a group of friends or anyone who wishes to spend a relaxed time by the water with beautiful views of Cascade Mountain. Our recommendation is to get there early in the day to reserve a picnic table with a fire pit. Bring food, drinks, picnic gear, park games/toys and don't forget your Kayak/Canoe/SUP to have the best time on the water!
Facilities: parking, washrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, green areas, walking and biking trails.
Additional activities: Short walking/biking trails around the pond, bbq, park activities/sports, chill and BeHappy :)
Two Jack Lake
Location: Two Jack Lake is located in Banff National Park only 30 min drive from our storage. Click HERE for map and directions.
Paddling time: 2 hr - all day.
Difficulty: EASY/INTERMEDIATE This lake is good for any level.
Description: Two Jack lake is a beautiful is a beautiful spot inside Banff National Park. This place is ideal for families with small children, a group of friends or anyone who wishes to spend a relaxed time by the water with beautiful views of Cascade Mountain. Our recommendation is to get there early in the day to reserve a picnic table with a fire pit. Bring food, drinks, picnic gear, park games/toys and don't forget your Kayak/Canoe/SUP to have the best time on the water!
Facilities: parking, washrooms, picnic tables, green areas.
Additional activities: Short walking/biking trails around the pond, bbq, park activities/sports, chill and BeHappy :)